SAFA Skysailor Magazine

14 SKY SAILOR March | April 2021 Birchip Flatter than the Flatlands 2021 Birchip goes sky high once again as the picturesque town’s annual hang gliding competition takes off following Covid-19 setbacks in 2020. In the small rural town of Birchip, Victoria, you will find a community and location like no other, with large dusty paddocks and clear skies as far as the eye can see. The town is home to the Flatter than the Flatlands cross-country towing competition. After being cancelled in 2020 due to Covid-19, the annual Birchip Flatter than the Flatlands hang gliding competition will once again take off this year. Set to soar across the four-day Easter long weekend, the competition is officially scheduled and set to run from 2 to 5 April 2021, making this the 28th repeat of this annual hang gliding competition. After a year of lockdowns, uncertainty and unprecedented times, this unique event will once again have competitors feeling a sense of euphoria as they glide through the sky. Hang glider pilots and teams can participate in this truly unique experience for the registration and entry fee of $100, which includes daily prizes, presentation BBQ, scoring goal beers and more, with discounts available for teams with a first-time pilot. April is a great time to fly, especially in Birchip, as the weather at this time of year is generally mild and sunny with mellow thermals. Competition tasks are seldom over 100km and pick-ups are usually straightforward. Competitors can expect to be back at HQ before 7pm each day. Accommodation is available at either the pub, caravan park, or competitors can camp at Tcham Lake which is located six kilometres east of town. All competitors are required to carry a GPS and reserve parachute. For more information on the Birchip Flatter than the Flatlands click here or contact organiser Wesley Hill on 0408 305 943 or email to register. Ready, Set, Soar