HGFA Skysailor Magazine

SKY SAILOR 25 September | October 2018 better performance looses some of the easy roll and ultra-forgiving qualities. I have certainly found I can make real improvements to my old Disco, moving away from the requirements of a beginner glider to something much more responsive, but retaining the control required for low level work. I also note that ‘market forces’ have driven the floater market down the schmick and expensive route, rather than a real budget machine that we sought to make at Off Piste Aviation in the 90’s – something really affordable as a lead into the sport. At the end of the day, I recall being inspired to take up hang gliding at 16 years of age as a result of the publicity at the time, and I believe without direct interaction with would-be pilots that grabs their imagination, we are doomed to a slow fizzing demise. Duning is great for the spectator. Skying out and disappearing over the back is not a crowd pleaser, but the kind of antics the gooners get up to? Who knows, this could attract new blood into our ranks. How about holding a gooning event with dune races, spot landings, ribbon catching etc – great opportunities for inspiring footage. This aspect of our great sport has a lot to offer. I get many comments from passers by on the beach, remarking on how much fun it looks and how much is the gear, etc, and yes, even young surfies give it the thumbs up. Human Factors Air (the environment) - Man (I’m safe) - Ship (the aircraft) I’M SAFE I llness? Do I have an illness or any symptoms of an illness or disorder? M edication and other drugs? Have I been taking or mixing prescription, over-the-counter or recreational drugs? S tress? Am I under psychological pressure from my job or personal circumstances? Am I worried about financial matters, health problems or family matter? A lcohol? Have I been consuming alcohol within the previous eight hours? Is my blood alcohol level less than 0.02? Would my average alcohol consumption be greater than ‘very low risk’? F atigue? Am I tired or inadequately rested? E ating and Drinking? Am I adequately nourished and hydrated? Photos: Bill Pain Contact: Bill Pain <bill@cloud9morph.com > or 0431 210409.