Next Event
Suncoast Model Flyers Airfield
Sunshine Coast, Qld
4th & 5th June 2022
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Tin Can Bay Airfield
30th April - 1st May 2022
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CAC 'Wackett' Trainer (CA-2, CA-6)
This 102" (2.5m) aircraft was constructed by Ken Baird of the Tingalpa Model Aero Club. Noel Stewart, the current owner, displayed the qualities of such a graceful flying lady. |
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The CAC Wackett Trainer was the first aircraft type designed in-house by the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation of Australia. The name was derived from its designer Lawrence Wackett. In acknowledgement of the CAC Manager's enormous contribution, the RAAF were to call the aircraft the Wackett Trainer" (although often referred to as simply the Wackett).
It was a tandem seat fixed tailwheel-undercarriage monoplane aircraft with a fuselage of steel tube and fabric construction and wings and tail made of wood. Despite the simplicity of the design, construction of the first of two CA-2 prototypes, begun in October 1938 but was not completed until September 1939.
It was a tandem seat fixed tailwheel-undercarriage monoplane aircraft with a fuselage of steel tube and fabric construction and wings and tail made of wood. Despite the simplicity of the design, construction of the first of two CA-2 prototypes, begun in October 1938 but was not completed until September 1939.
It was great to be back in our traditional Tin Can Bay time slot – the May Day weekend!! It is one of the best times of the year to be in Queensland and for camping/caravanning (and flying). Warm days but not hot and cool nights but not cold.
The TCB field was looking at its absolute best. The manicured bowling green surface of the runways are a treat. Having received about 2 years of rainfall in the first 4 months of the year across much of SE Queensland the whole countryside is “green as”.
However, the weather forecast was not looking good with showers and 15knts winds forecasted throughout the weekend. Although there were showers earlier Saturday morning up to about 9am, the cranky weather gods must have then had the rest of the day off. Full sunshine, warm and with winds under 5knts, made for absolutely perfect flying conditions right into the late afternoon. Everyone was able to get lots of flights in and models needing certification were able to do so. Sunday however was true to the forecast and flights were managed in between showers.
About two dozen pilots fronted up to the flightline for the weekend. This was down a bit from the normal TCB turnout, most likely due to the inclement weather forecast. But this didn’t stop the many highlights across the weekend. Some of my favourites included:
- Watching the Bi-planes revel in the Saturday afternoon air;
- Watching Mick take his relative new (2 flights old) gigantic P47 Razorback out and flying it like he stole it – it is big and fast;
- Brian and Karl take the very large LA7 up (6 flights old);
- Wayne’s maiden and certification flight of the Harvard; and
- Tatts taking Neil’s old timers for a spin – 1910 Henri Farman and De Havilland DH2 – so confident was Tatts that he even did touch ‘n go’s (he did confess that his knees are still shaking!!)
We wish to thank TCBMFC for hosting us again and for the excellent facilities provided. They really are a well organised crew. We did look in a bit of trouble when at the Saturday morning pilots meeting Dave C informed us that the hot water system was not working and we could be in for cold showers. Fortunately Jeff H, who worked on these things during his working days, was able to get it going, much to everyone’s relief. Nothing like a hot shower at the end of the day.
There were a few casualties to report from the weekends sortie:
- The new Harvard lost contact with the ground crew and decided to take on the Wallum scrub. A lot messy and the recovery crew came back looking like drowned rats.
- Bucker Jungmeister did the splits on landing – tip, don’t fly in the rain wearing glasses!!!!
- I did see another broken plane but can’t remember who or what (sorry -bloody dementia!!).
See you all at Coolum, June 4 & 5,
Safe Landings,
Nic Case
Below, is a sample of the aircraft on show during the weekend.
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TAA Airfield - Toowoomba
2 & 3rd April 2022
Peter Love proudly holds his 30% scale PT17 Stearman. Peter is a member of the TAA club which hosted the week-end event.
The Stearman (Boeing) Model 75 is a biplane formerly used as a military trainer aircraft, of which at least 10,626 were built in the United States during the 1930s and 1940s. Stearman Aircraft became a subsidiary of Boeing in 1934. Widely known as the Stearman, Boeing Stearman, or Kaydet, it served as a primary trainer for the United States Army Air Forces, the United States Navy (as the NS and N2S), and with the Royal Canadian Air Force as the Kaydet throughout World War II. After the conflict was over, thousands of surplus aircraft were sold on the civilian market. In the immediate postwar years, they became popular as crop dusters and sports planes, and for aerobatic and wing walking use in air shows.
A picture says a thousand words.
Well take a look at this weekends photos. Big fluffy clouds, green lush grass, plenty of sunshine and if you look close enough to see the windsock it is barely moving (Friday and Saturday). Doesn’t get much better than this!!!
It seems Toowoomba really knows how to turn on the good weather, the past three years have been exceptional. Although there was a bit of a shower Friday morning the TAA field was in magnificent condition when most of us started arriving midday on the Friday. Light winds greeted us both Friday and Saturday and this dropped away in the afternoons. Sunday morning saw a slightly stronger breeze (10 knots) but it was coming in at 90 degree to the main strip. Fortunately the Club was not able to let us camp Sunday night so that we had all left, as apparently the heavens opened up causing localised flooding.
SCAF member numbers were a bit light on but the TAA and TARMAC Clubs boosted the flight line. This can be put down to wet weather leading up to the event, the cost of camping (which was halved when we arrived) and the price of fuel. Diesel was well over $2/ litre on Friday but had dropped down to $1.82 by Sunday, thank goodness.
I would like to welcome back previous members that have re-joined SCAF (Peter Love, Sean 'Chilli' Chilcott and Steve Thomas) and new members (Michael Paul and Neil Davy).
A big thank you to TAA and their members for hosting us. The members have really gone out of their way by allowing four weekends in a row of visiting Special Interest Groups. I guess it’s a price they have to pay in order to raise enough funds to pay for the continuing lease of their field. Also a big thank you to Simon and Chris who manned the BBQ over the weekend with the great Burgers and Bacon & Egg brekkie.
I’m glad I have plenty of witnesses at the pilot’s draw. I couldn’t believe that about 4 pilots sitting next to each other draw the name out of the person sitting next to them. It looked rigged but it was all above board!
Only three incidents to report:
Safe Landings,
Nic Case,
President
Well take a look at this weekends photos. Big fluffy clouds, green lush grass, plenty of sunshine and if you look close enough to see the windsock it is barely moving (Friday and Saturday). Doesn’t get much better than this!!!
It seems Toowoomba really knows how to turn on the good weather, the past three years have been exceptional. Although there was a bit of a shower Friday morning the TAA field was in magnificent condition when most of us started arriving midday on the Friday. Light winds greeted us both Friday and Saturday and this dropped away in the afternoons. Sunday morning saw a slightly stronger breeze (10 knots) but it was coming in at 90 degree to the main strip. Fortunately the Club was not able to let us camp Sunday night so that we had all left, as apparently the heavens opened up causing localised flooding.
SCAF member numbers were a bit light on but the TAA and TARMAC Clubs boosted the flight line. This can be put down to wet weather leading up to the event, the cost of camping (which was halved when we arrived) and the price of fuel. Diesel was well over $2/ litre on Friday but had dropped down to $1.82 by Sunday, thank goodness.
I would like to welcome back previous members that have re-joined SCAF (Peter Love, Sean 'Chilli' Chilcott and Steve Thomas) and new members (Michael Paul and Neil Davy).
A big thank you to TAA and their members for hosting us. The members have really gone out of their way by allowing four weekends in a row of visiting Special Interest Groups. I guess it’s a price they have to pay in order to raise enough funds to pay for the continuing lease of their field. Also a big thank you to Simon and Chris who manned the BBQ over the weekend with the great Burgers and Bacon & Egg brekkie.
I’m glad I have plenty of witnesses at the pilot’s draw. I couldn’t believe that about 4 pilots sitting next to each other draw the name out of the person sitting next to them. It looked rigged but it was all above board!
Only three incidents to report:
- An electric Folke Wulf 190A (timber construction) in the dead calm air of late Saturday afternoon had a two second maiden flight. Immediately after lifting off it pulled very hard left, inverted and went straight into the turf. It is now a jigsaw puzzle.
- Sunday morning with the nasty cross wind puffing at about 10knots, the giant Folke Wulf 190-D9 skipped a bit sideways on landing and the under-carriage gave way. The pilot has had problems with the under-carriage previously and reckons it is not up to the task. An upgrade might set him back $1,500 though – just as well he is off on holidays and doesn’t have to think about it for a while.
- The long serving T28 Trojan decided that it has seen enough sorties by seizing up the engine bearings.
Safe Landings,
Nic Case,
President
Below, is a sample of the aircraft on show during the weekend.
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Kingaroy, Queensland 4610
23-24th October, 2021
The Fokker D.VII was a German World War I fighter aircraft designed by Reinhold Platz of the Fokker-Flugzeugwerke.
Germany produced around 3,300 D.VII aircraft in the second half of 1918. In service with the Luftstreitkräfte, the D.VII quickly proved itself to be a formidable aircraft. The Armistice ending the war specifically required, as the fourth clause of the "Clauses Relating to the Western Front", that Germany was required to surrender all D.VIIs to the Allies. Surviving aircraft saw much service with many countries in the years after World War I.
Germany produced around 3,300 D.VII aircraft in the second half of 1918. In service with the Luftstreitkräfte, the D.VII quickly proved itself to be a formidable aircraft. The Armistice ending the war specifically required, as the fourth clause of the "Clauses Relating to the Western Front", that Germany was required to surrender all D.VIIs to the Allies. Surviving aircraft saw much service with many countries in the years after World War I.
'Never Stop Flying'
Every now and then, it happens! A mid-air crash!. It's not a pretty sight to see two aircraft coming together in the air - that horrible crunching sound - bits coming off - both aircraft tumbling toward the ground. Will the aircraft be able to land or will there be wipe-outs? |
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As the crowd looked on enjoying the manoeuvres and formation flying, Peter Love's (yellow) aircraft and Richard Syme's (green) aircraft came together at the eastern side of the airfield during the turn back to the runways. For a moment, it looked like the two out of control aircraft were about to be re-kitted. However. As the pilots remained calm, both aircraft were recovered from the tumbling attitudes (just in time) and were very skilfully guided down to the end of the runway for what was a remarkable safe landing. What a relief! The motto here is - 'Never Stop Flying'.
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"ARV" Aircraft Recovery Vehicle We encourage every club to invest in this valuable piece of equipment. All bits and pieces are recoverable from the airfield and outer paddocks. |
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Mark Brazier from KAMS operates the aircraft recovery vehicle. The ARV was used three times over the week-end. |
President's Report - 9 Top things to do in Kingaroy
1. Fly at a marvellously prepared field .
A big storm about 4 weeks out from the event, then some more follow up storms, saw a very green runway and surrounding paddocks – a luxurious
green carpet rolled out. (I’ve flown here in October in prior years and I’ve only ever used the dusty brown carpet).
2. Enjoy the welcome from the local KAMS members.
For a Club that has only 20 members they put in a big effort and greeted us with a very friendly country welcome. It was obvious that they we thrilled to
be our hosts. Thanks team KAMSters.
3. Fly, Fly, Fly.
A big roll up of SCAF members and visitors took to the huge open skies with a great variety of planes and a few jets being flown. Plenty of mateship,
laughter and chit-chat was shared by all. Saturday saw a steady strength breeze generally coming from the NW but was swinging rapidly between
N and W, which at times saw you take off on one strip but land on the cross strip. Often a landing was aborted by having to change the approach due to
a wind shift. Sunday’s wind was much stronger coming from the SE, again swinging, which led to many pilots either not setting up or packing up early.
4. Have a great night out at the RSL Kingaroy.
On Saturday night, about 40 people descended on the RSL for dinner to celebrate Col Parry’s birthday. It was a busy place as a MotoX event was on
the same weekend and they also were at the RSL. Fortunately, Boxy had booked the “White Room” for our group. From the noise being made, a lot of
happy juice must have been swallowed.
5. Watch two Fokker D.VII’s collide mid-air.
The crowd watched intently as both aircraft (which had became locked together), disentangle and landed safely on just ½ of their bottom wings (see
photo above). It was an expert display of recovery flying by both Richard Symes and Peter Love.
6. Be well fed.
There is nothing better to fill up the empty fuel tank than a sausage sizzle for lunch. The bacon and egg rolls for Sunday breakfast were great also.
Our thanks goes to Darryl, Denis and the KAMS Hilton staff.
7. Ladies, hit the town shopping.
On Saturday, with the Kingaroy central shops to explore, ('Wow'), most ladies were absent from the airfield. However, on Sunday all our ladies came
to the airfield in support of SCAF and the Kingaroy club.
8. Win Big!
To help raise some funds for KAMS to offset their costs in preparing for the weekend (aka, green fees), we held a raffle with the prize being a laundry
basket overflowing with groceries. The winner was Anne Sharpe.
9. Make a long weekend .
There is plenty to see and do in Kingaroy and the South Burnett – wineries, cafes and peanuts.
Less than a ½ hour drive you can be at the Bunya Mountains to the south or to the north Wondai - Murgon . Apparently the Wondai shops and cafes
were given the seal of approval on Thursday 14th.
Newspaper Coverage
One of the Kingaroy newspapers, southburnett.onlline, did a write up and took some magnificent photos, which can be viewed on this link:
Model Air Force Invades Booie - southburnett.com.au
Hot Tip for Next Year
Don’t miss next years event and save the date on your calendar well in advance.
(Also the gourmet Bakery at Goomeri is a must do).
From the President
Although the year was all over the place with interruptions, in my opinion it has been a terrific year with interest in Warbirds still strong.
This was topped off with a fantastic event in Kingaroy with over 35 SCAF and visiting pilots.
We thank the following people who have contributed to the running of Warbirds during the year:
Glenys Parry – Secretary, for getting all those notices out;
Peter Johnson – Webmaster, for getting things posted and updated straight away;
Col & Glenys Parry, Bill Sharpe and Graham Tattersall – for buying the pilot prizes;
And all of our generous host Clubs and their members.
The 2022 calendar will be out towards the end of November.
Have a merry Xmas and New Year, see you all in 2022.
Safe Landings, Nic Case
1. Fly at a marvellously prepared field .
A big storm about 4 weeks out from the event, then some more follow up storms, saw a very green runway and surrounding paddocks – a luxurious
green carpet rolled out. (I’ve flown here in October in prior years and I’ve only ever used the dusty brown carpet).
2. Enjoy the welcome from the local KAMS members.
For a Club that has only 20 members they put in a big effort and greeted us with a very friendly country welcome. It was obvious that they we thrilled to
be our hosts. Thanks team KAMSters.
3. Fly, Fly, Fly.
A big roll up of SCAF members and visitors took to the huge open skies with a great variety of planes and a few jets being flown. Plenty of mateship,
laughter and chit-chat was shared by all. Saturday saw a steady strength breeze generally coming from the NW but was swinging rapidly between
N and W, which at times saw you take off on one strip but land on the cross strip. Often a landing was aborted by having to change the approach due to
a wind shift. Sunday’s wind was much stronger coming from the SE, again swinging, which led to many pilots either not setting up or packing up early.
4. Have a great night out at the RSL Kingaroy.
On Saturday night, about 40 people descended on the RSL for dinner to celebrate Col Parry’s birthday. It was a busy place as a MotoX event was on
the same weekend and they also were at the RSL. Fortunately, Boxy had booked the “White Room” for our group. From the noise being made, a lot of
happy juice must have been swallowed.
5. Watch two Fokker D.VII’s collide mid-air.
The crowd watched intently as both aircraft (which had became locked together), disentangle and landed safely on just ½ of their bottom wings (see
photo above). It was an expert display of recovery flying by both Richard Symes and Peter Love.
6. Be well fed.
There is nothing better to fill up the empty fuel tank than a sausage sizzle for lunch. The bacon and egg rolls for Sunday breakfast were great also.
Our thanks goes to Darryl, Denis and the KAMS Hilton staff.
7. Ladies, hit the town shopping.
On Saturday, with the Kingaroy central shops to explore, ('Wow'), most ladies were absent from the airfield. However, on Sunday all our ladies came
to the airfield in support of SCAF and the Kingaroy club.
8. Win Big!
To help raise some funds for KAMS to offset their costs in preparing for the weekend (aka, green fees), we held a raffle with the prize being a laundry
basket overflowing with groceries. The winner was Anne Sharpe.
9. Make a long weekend .
There is plenty to see and do in Kingaroy and the South Burnett – wineries, cafes and peanuts.
Less than a ½ hour drive you can be at the Bunya Mountains to the south or to the north Wondai - Murgon . Apparently the Wondai shops and cafes
were given the seal of approval on Thursday 14th.
Newspaper Coverage
One of the Kingaroy newspapers, southburnett.onlline, did a write up and took some magnificent photos, which can be viewed on this link:
Model Air Force Invades Booie - southburnett.com.au
Hot Tip for Next Year
Don’t miss next years event and save the date on your calendar well in advance.
(Also the gourmet Bakery at Goomeri is a must do).
From the President
Although the year was all over the place with interruptions, in my opinion it has been a terrific year with interest in Warbirds still strong.
This was topped off with a fantastic event in Kingaroy with over 35 SCAF and visiting pilots.
We thank the following people who have contributed to the running of Warbirds during the year:
Glenys Parry – Secretary, for getting all those notices out;
Peter Johnson – Webmaster, for getting things posted and updated straight away;
Col & Glenys Parry, Bill Sharpe and Graham Tattersall – for buying the pilot prizes;
And all of our generous host Clubs and their members.
The 2022 calendar will be out towards the end of November.
Have a merry Xmas and New Year, see you all in 2022.
Safe Landings, Nic Case
Below, is a sample of the aircraft on show during the weekend.
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Maryborough, Queensland 4650
18-19th September, 2021
The Armstrong Whitworth A.W.38 Whitley (developed during the mid-1930s) was one of three British twin-engine, front line bomber type aircraft in service with the Royal Air Force (RAF) at the outbreak of the Second World War.
The Whitley formally entered into RAF squadron service during 1937.
It was the first of the three medium bombers alongside the Vickers Wellington and the Handley Page Hampden.
The above model aircraft constructed of balsa and block foam with a wingspan of 2.48m and powered by two 60 size electric motors, was designed and built by Dennis Burdett who lives at Biggenden, Queensland 4621
The Whitley formally entered into RAF squadron service during 1937.
It was the first of the three medium bombers alongside the Vickers Wellington and the Handley Page Hampden.
The above model aircraft constructed of balsa and block foam with a wingspan of 2.48m and powered by two 60 size electric motors, was designed and built by Dennis Burdett who lives at Biggenden, Queensland 4621
We are on a roll – two Warbird meetings in a row without a COVID interruption. Touch wood we can make it three for the final event of the year.
The warmer weather over the weekend was great with only a bit of a breeze. Afternoon conditions were ideal for the many thermals that crossed the airfield whipping into little whirly-whirly’s. A few big ones were seen across the road in the cane paddocks.
Luck was also on our side. However, the Monday and Tuesday following the weekend really blew with gusts recorded over 45kmh on the Tuesday. Those that stayed on (I imagined) would have packed up and headed for shelter or gone home.
Maryborough hasn’t seen much rain this year, particularly since June. As a result the area is very dry and brown. The airfield was in fair condition with the two airstrips a little bumpy from the tufts of grass that are still hanging on, giving a good workout for the undercarriages.
A sure sign of the dry conditions can be seen in their dam which is usually fairly full. It is now reduced to a puddle and is only suitable for mud buggies unless you can land a float plane like a heli, in the space of one metre.
Dennis Burdett continues to impress us all with his magnificent flying machines. This time he presented a Whitley bomber and a GeeBee Ascender (contender for ugliest aircraft ever – google it). Unfortunately for Dennis they went up-te-up and then they went down-te-down-te-down. Being scratch built from hand drawn plans the CG is a bit of a guess and both planes although they flew well under power suffered from being nose heavy when the power was taken off during landing attempts.
The only other major casualty of the weekend was a P47, when the engine stopped on climb-out leaving the pilot nowhere to go but into the trees in the eastern paddock. It is now a three piece aircraft.
We would like to thank the Maryborough Club for their generous hospitality as usual. The Club has done a lot of work on their facilities since our last visit and it is a very pleasant place to spend the weekend. The food was excellent and our thanks goes to Neil, Lyn and their crew.
We're expecting a big roll up for the final event of the year to be held at Kingaroy, on October 23 and 24. See you there!
Safe landings,
Nic Case, President
The warmer weather over the weekend was great with only a bit of a breeze. Afternoon conditions were ideal for the many thermals that crossed the airfield whipping into little whirly-whirly’s. A few big ones were seen across the road in the cane paddocks.
Luck was also on our side. However, the Monday and Tuesday following the weekend really blew with gusts recorded over 45kmh on the Tuesday. Those that stayed on (I imagined) would have packed up and headed for shelter or gone home.
Maryborough hasn’t seen much rain this year, particularly since June. As a result the area is very dry and brown. The airfield was in fair condition with the two airstrips a little bumpy from the tufts of grass that are still hanging on, giving a good workout for the undercarriages.
A sure sign of the dry conditions can be seen in their dam which is usually fairly full. It is now reduced to a puddle and is only suitable for mud buggies unless you can land a float plane like a heli, in the space of one metre.
Dennis Burdett continues to impress us all with his magnificent flying machines. This time he presented a Whitley bomber and a GeeBee Ascender (contender for ugliest aircraft ever – google it). Unfortunately for Dennis they went up-te-up and then they went down-te-down-te-down. Being scratch built from hand drawn plans the CG is a bit of a guess and both planes although they flew well under power suffered from being nose heavy when the power was taken off during landing attempts.
The only other major casualty of the weekend was a P47, when the engine stopped on climb-out leaving the pilot nowhere to go but into the trees in the eastern paddock. It is now a three piece aircraft.
We would like to thank the Maryborough Club for their generous hospitality as usual. The Club has done a lot of work on their facilities since our last visit and it is a very pleasant place to spend the weekend. The food was excellent and our thanks goes to Neil, Lyn and their crew.
We're expecting a big roll up for the final event of the year to be held at Kingaroy, on October 23 and 24. See you there!
Safe landings,
Nic Case, President
Below, is a sample of the aircraft on show during the weekend.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Burpengary, Queensland 4505
28th & 29th August, 2021
28th & 29th August, 2021
The Nakajima Ki-43 Hayabusa "Oscar" was a land-based tactical fighter used by the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force in World War II.
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The Mitsubishi A6M "Zero" was a long-range carrier-based fighter aircraft operated by the Imperial Japanese Navy from 1940 to 1945.
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Visitors and members were entertained by the 'dual performance flight' of the "Oscar", flown by Karl Knack and the "Zero" flown by Brian Ford. These aircraft demanded the sky showing the pilots' skills whilst performing climbs, dives, loops and fly-pass (some slow and some fast) down the main runway. It was a pleasure to see them in action.
The aircraft have a wingspan of 88" (2.24m) and are powered by Saito FG90R3 engines.
The aircraft have a wingspan of 88" (2.24m) and are powered by Saito FG90R3 engines.
33 SCAF pilots signed on for the weekend of flying at the SAAMBR Jim Gibson field.
Together with local Club members there was an excellent array of Warbirds with an estimated 60 planes displayed and flown.
Having gone nearing three months without a Warbirds event due to…, (I will not mention the word, as we are sick of hearing about it), pilots and their thumbs were itching to get some flying in. Weather conditions were absolutely perfect with the mornings ranging from dead calm to a gentle zephyr. A slight sea breeze kicked in for the afternoons.
Campers thought Friday night a tad too chilly and all were off to bed by 9pm in order to keep warm. The Jim Gibson field was in excellent condition. The main strip had been top-dressed with sand and it was still a bit too soft for the really small foamies which tended to trip over both on take off and landing. However, with some warm weather and a bit of rain to come, the grass will soon grow to produce a great surface.
By this time next year there will be a brand new toilet block in operation with an “emergency washdown” facility installed (gonna miss those portables?).
As a special treat SCAF put on pizzas from the local shop for all that stayed on for tea on Saturday night – great suggestion Sharpie. This was followed by sweets in the form of yummy trifle - thanks Ann. Notice to all members – Don’t expect this to become a regular occurrence or we will run out of funds really quick.
Highlight of the weekend were the Oscar and Zero flying together and following each other around the sky. Not only could these two planes put on some serious speed (and noise) but with flaps down did some very slow low passes, almost on the verge of stalling. Only two casualties to report from the weekend: 1. The black experimental aircraft had an engine out and failed to make it back to the strip – looks like a bit of firewall damage, but will require to be striped to inspect for any further issues. 2. A foamie ran out of sky room and crashed in the carpark giving Jason a bit of a fright. The plane broke in two and will need further inspection to see if it can be glued back together. See you all at Maryborough, Sept 18 and 19. Safe Landings ------ Nic Case
Question: What did the fish say when he swam into a concrete wall? Answer: Bloody Robbie Potter, again! (in house joke)
Together with local Club members there was an excellent array of Warbirds with an estimated 60 planes displayed and flown.
Having gone nearing three months without a Warbirds event due to…, (I will not mention the word, as we are sick of hearing about it), pilots and their thumbs were itching to get some flying in. Weather conditions were absolutely perfect with the mornings ranging from dead calm to a gentle zephyr. A slight sea breeze kicked in for the afternoons.
Campers thought Friday night a tad too chilly and all were off to bed by 9pm in order to keep warm. The Jim Gibson field was in excellent condition. The main strip had been top-dressed with sand and it was still a bit too soft for the really small foamies which tended to trip over both on take off and landing. However, with some warm weather and a bit of rain to come, the grass will soon grow to produce a great surface.
By this time next year there will be a brand new toilet block in operation with an “emergency washdown” facility installed (gonna miss those portables?).
As a special treat SCAF put on pizzas from the local shop for all that stayed on for tea on Saturday night – great suggestion Sharpie. This was followed by sweets in the form of yummy trifle - thanks Ann. Notice to all members – Don’t expect this to become a regular occurrence or we will run out of funds really quick.
Highlight of the weekend were the Oscar and Zero flying together and following each other around the sky. Not only could these two planes put on some serious speed (and noise) but with flaps down did some very slow low passes, almost on the verge of stalling. Only two casualties to report from the weekend: 1. The black experimental aircraft had an engine out and failed to make it back to the strip – looks like a bit of firewall damage, but will require to be striped to inspect for any further issues. 2. A foamie ran out of sky room and crashed in the carpark giving Jason a bit of a fright. The plane broke in two and will need further inspection to see if it can be glued back together. See you all at Maryborough, Sept 18 and 19. Safe Landings ------ Nic Case
Question: What did the fish say when he swam into a concrete wall? Answer: Bloody Robbie Potter, again! (in house joke)
Members awaiting the arrival of the yummy pizzas at the end of a good flying session.
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Jason's 'Come, Look and Buy'.
Anything you may need in the way of second-hand aircraft or parts. At times there were more members at his stall than at the flight line.
Thanks Jason, we appreciate your support.
Anything you may need in the way of second-hand aircraft or parts. At times there were more members at his stall than at the flight line.
Thanks Jason, we appreciate your support.
Below, is a sample of the aircraft on show during the weekend.
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Suncoast Model Flyers Inc
Sunshine Coast
29 & 30th May, 2021
Fieseler Fi Storch
The Fieseler Fi 156 Storch was a small German liaison aircraft built by Fieseler before and during World War II.
Production continued in other countries into the 1950s for the private aircraft market.
A design feature rare for land-based aircraft enabled the wings on the Storch to be folded back along the fuselage in a manner similar to the wings of the Royal Navy's Fairey Swordfish torpedo bomber. This allowed the aircraft to be carried on a trailer or even towed slowly behind a motor vehicle. The primary hinge for the folding wing was located in the wing root, where the rear wing spar met the cabin.
The long legs of the main landing gear contained oil-and-spring shock absorbers that had a travel of 40 cm (15-3/4 inches), allowing the aircraft to land on comparatively rough and uneven surfaces; this was combined with a "pre-travel" distance of 20 cm, before the oleos began damping the landing gear shock. In flight, the main landing gear legs hung down, giving the aircraft the appearance of a long-legged, big-winged bird, hence its nickname, Storch. Looking from directly ahead, the Storch with its very low landing speed, often appeared to land vertically, or even backwards in strong winds.
Production continued in other countries into the 1950s for the private aircraft market.
A design feature rare for land-based aircraft enabled the wings on the Storch to be folded back along the fuselage in a manner similar to the wings of the Royal Navy's Fairey Swordfish torpedo bomber. This allowed the aircraft to be carried on a trailer or even towed slowly behind a motor vehicle. The primary hinge for the folding wing was located in the wing root, where the rear wing spar met the cabin.
The long legs of the main landing gear contained oil-and-spring shock absorbers that had a travel of 40 cm (15-3/4 inches), allowing the aircraft to land on comparatively rough and uneven surfaces; this was combined with a "pre-travel" distance of 20 cm, before the oleos began damping the landing gear shock. In flight, the main landing gear legs hung down, giving the aircraft the appearance of a long-legged, big-winged bird, hence its nickname, Storch. Looking from directly ahead, the Storch with its very low landing speed, often appeared to land vertically, or even backwards in strong winds.
Visualise this !
It's Friday night, everybody is rugged up as the sneaky cool breeze wafts across the airfield of Suncoast Model Flyers, on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. To our right you can see groups of pilots with their partners and friends sitting around "pig" fireplaces, eating fish and chips, with drinks in hand, telling stories. Yes, it is coool !
Early Saturday morning the sky was clear and the breeze had dissipated. However, by 9:30 the wind had increased to just over 15 knots (28-30 kms/hr) but it was directly up the South/North runway which presented very little problem to the pilots. Aircraft just needed to have a bit of extra power on when landing. Saturday was the pick of the two days as the wind was very constant and smooth.
Unfortunately, incorrect weather forecasts kept our farthest members from making the long journey to Coolum.
The airfield and camping areas were all dry and hard. If you went to the far corners you may have found a damp spot but overall it was absolutely perfect.
Sunday morning we were woken up (rudely??) to the sounds of a banjo playing the duelling banjos tune. In my sleepy state, I thought that someone had changed the ringtone on my phone's alarm, but the music was live. The banjo player was threatened that he may have to look for his banjo in a very dark place - but it was all great fun. It was time to fly the 'foamies' in the relatively calm early morning air. No point taking home charged up batteries, so you might as well discharge them flying around.
The atmosphere was a bit more bumpy and the air had a bit of a chill factor.
We thank Suncoast Model Flyers for being our host and for providing a great airfield, great amenities and great food. We look forward to out next visit.
A special thanks to Ray Dixon who acted as Flight Line Controller throughout the weekend, even though we all agreed to do a 30 minute voluntary rotating shift. We just couldn't release him from all his duties. Thanks very much, Ray.
There were no casualties to report during the weekend. All aircraft returned home safely from their sorties, ready to partake at our next event.
It's Friday night, everybody is rugged up as the sneaky cool breeze wafts across the airfield of Suncoast Model Flyers, on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. To our right you can see groups of pilots with their partners and friends sitting around "pig" fireplaces, eating fish and chips, with drinks in hand, telling stories. Yes, it is coool !
Early Saturday morning the sky was clear and the breeze had dissipated. However, by 9:30 the wind had increased to just over 15 knots (28-30 kms/hr) but it was directly up the South/North runway which presented very little problem to the pilots. Aircraft just needed to have a bit of extra power on when landing. Saturday was the pick of the two days as the wind was very constant and smooth.
Unfortunately, incorrect weather forecasts kept our farthest members from making the long journey to Coolum.
The airfield and camping areas were all dry and hard. If you went to the far corners you may have found a damp spot but overall it was absolutely perfect.
Sunday morning we were woken up (rudely??) to the sounds of a banjo playing the duelling banjos tune. In my sleepy state, I thought that someone had changed the ringtone on my phone's alarm, but the music was live. The banjo player was threatened that he may have to look for his banjo in a very dark place - but it was all great fun. It was time to fly the 'foamies' in the relatively calm early morning air. No point taking home charged up batteries, so you might as well discharge them flying around.
The atmosphere was a bit more bumpy and the air had a bit of a chill factor.
We thank Suncoast Model Flyers for being our host and for providing a great airfield, great amenities and great food. We look forward to out next visit.
A special thanks to Ray Dixon who acted as Flight Line Controller throughout the weekend, even though we all agreed to do a 30 minute voluntary rotating shift. We just couldn't release him from all his duties. Thanks very much, Ray.
There were no casualties to report during the weekend. All aircraft returned home safely from their sorties, ready to partake at our next event.
Below, is a sample of the aircraft on show during the weekend.
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Fresh Air of the Downs
TARMAC - Toowoomba
10 & 11th April, 2021
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Pilatus developed the next generation trainer: the PC-21, designed and built specifically with student pilots in mind. The Pilatus PC-21 is a turboprop-powered advanced trainer with a stepped tandem cockpit.
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The McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle is an American twin-engine, all-weather tactical fighter aircraft designed by McDonnell Douglas. United States Air Force selected McDonnell Douglas's design in 1967 to meet the service's need for a dedicated air superiority fighter.
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What a difference some good rain makes to the countryside. On the Tuesday before, the district received 200mm of rain so the airfield was at it's absolute best. Lush grass covered the entire paddock and airfield so there were no cracks and no puddles to be seen anywhere. The green was so bright you had to wear sunnies.
Winds were fairly light during Saturday becoming a bit stronger during Sunday, blowing straight up the main strip. This posed no problem at all - note the windsock in the background of the above photo of the F-15. Skies were clear and sunny although Sunday morning had a bit of early cloud which soon burned off. Nights were cooler than what us coastal residents are used to, down to 10 and just under (brrr..).
Winds were fairly light during Saturday becoming a bit stronger during Sunday, blowing straight up the main strip. This posed no problem at all - note the windsock in the background of the above photo of the F-15. Skies were clear and sunny although Sunday morning had a bit of early cloud which soon burned off. Nights were cooler than what us coastal residents are used to, down to 10 and just under (brrr..).
Below, is a sample of the aircraft on show during the weekend.
Here is a link to lots of other photos taken on the weekend by George Fricker:
https://pbase.com/junglegeorge/tarmacscaf2021
https://pbase.com/junglegeorge/tarmacscaf2021
Because the weather had been so poor during the previous two weeks, a smaller group of SCAF pilots ventured west up the range to meet with TARMAC members. Former SCAF members from Toowoomba, Mike, Peter, Steve, Chilli and Bruce joined us over the weekend. Also, Knoxie (from Brisbane) called in to say g'day. Hopefully, we may see these flyers re-join the SCAF when the new financial year begins.
The atmosphere was very light and casual and we are sure all had a lot of fun. We even got a laugh out of one of our members who flew his aircraft with the propeller put on back to front, even if he didn't think it was funny at the time as he struggled to returned his aircraft back to the airstrip (just).
We thank TARMAC for making their airfield available and George Fricker for helping to get the weekend organised. (George is another victim of Sharpie's ideal - "Have I got a deal for you").
Until we meet again - Happy Flying
Nick Case
SCAF President
The atmosphere was very light and casual and we are sure all had a lot of fun. We even got a laugh out of one of our members who flew his aircraft with the propeller put on back to front, even if he didn't think it was funny at the time as he struggled to returned his aircraft back to the airstrip (just).
We thank TARMAC for making their airfield available and George Fricker for helping to get the weekend organised. (George is another victim of Sharpie's ideal - "Have I got a deal for you").
Until we meet again - Happy Flying
Nick Case
SCAF President
Freedom! - Oh, What a Feeling!
Tingalpa Model Aero Club
6 & 7th March 2021
A great roll up of pilots and aircraft on the weekend at Tingalpa for our first Warbirds of the year. I haven’t seen this many Warbirds in one spot for a very long time. My count was 14 SCAF pilots flying plus a few others that just came to watch the spectacle, 5 Coffs Harbour “Black Sheep Squadron” members and dozens of TMAC pilots – great effort by TMAC (old accountants never stop counting). Also, flying were a couple of former SCAF members from Toowoomba and Coolum, with their own pit crews!!
There were plenty of spectators as well with the covered grandstand over the club house full.
There were plenty of spectators as well with the covered grandstand over the club house full.
The Avro Lancaster is a British Second World War heavy bomber. It was designed and manufactured by Avro as a contemporary of the Handley Page Halifax, both bombers having been developed to the same specification, as well as the Short Stirling, all three heavy bomber aircraft have four-engines adopted by the Royal Air Force (RAF) during the same wartime era.
The Lancaster has its origins in the twin-engine Avro Manchester which had been developed during the late 1930s in response to the Air Ministry Specification P.13/36 for a capable medium bomber for "world-wide use".
The Lancaster has its origins in the twin-engine Avro Manchester which had been developed during the late 1930s in response to the Air Ministry Specification P.13/36 for a capable medium bomber for "world-wide use".
Below, is a sample of the aircraft on show during the weekend.
The Tingalpa field was in immaculate condition. Having received plenty of rain in the previous weeks the grass was lush and soft, the field all mown and all line marked. A credit to the members that look after the place. Of course I can’t forget to mention the excellent catering for Breakfast and Lunch on Sunday. A big surprise on Saturday night for all those camping was Will Simpa who cooked two roasts in the Weber plus a potato and vegetable bake. Heaps of food to feed everyone including the “Black Sheep” and the hungry wolves.
Both Saturday and Sunday mornings started off gloriously for the very early flyers (6am) when the conditions were absolutely still, great for the small foamies. By 8am the wind started to kick in. Saturday saw about 15 knots but it was at a 90 degree cross wind to the main strip and full of potholes.
Sunday was much improved, a steady wind 10-15 and coming in at a 45 degree angle.
3 SCAF planes reported damage over the weekend:
1. T28, minor nose dent, repairable – pilot put the wrong battery in. (Ok, that was me).
2. Bi-Plane, will require a full front end rebuild – no sure what went wrong here.
3. P47, complete write off – looks like an aileron servo locked up solid. The pilot on take off
was heading for the car park (and his own caravan) so he dumped it into the turf.
The pilot of the Bi-Plane cleaned up all the glue prizes in the pilots draw –we know that will be put to good use!
Finally, a big thank you to Noel Stewart for his organisation of this event.
Both Saturday and Sunday mornings started off gloriously for the very early flyers (6am) when the conditions were absolutely still, great for the small foamies. By 8am the wind started to kick in. Saturday saw about 15 knots but it was at a 90 degree cross wind to the main strip and full of potholes.
Sunday was much improved, a steady wind 10-15 and coming in at a 45 degree angle.
3 SCAF planes reported damage over the weekend:
1. T28, minor nose dent, repairable – pilot put the wrong battery in. (Ok, that was me).
2. Bi-Plane, will require a full front end rebuild – no sure what went wrong here.
3. P47, complete write off – looks like an aileron servo locked up solid. The pilot on take off
was heading for the car park (and his own caravan) so he dumped it into the turf.
The pilot of the Bi-Plane cleaned up all the glue prizes in the pilots draw –we know that will be put to good use!
Finally, a big thank you to Noel Stewart for his organisation of this event.
Nicholas 'Nic' Case Appointed President
After seven good years as president of the Southern Cross Air Force, Bill Sharpe hands the controls over to Nic Case who is an active member of the Tin Can Bay Club. Nic joined the SCAF in 2012 and has become well known to our members.
In appreciation of his faithful service, Bill Sharpe has been awarded 'Life Membership'. In the photo below, Bill (left) receives his 'Certificate of Life Membership' from the incoming president Nic Case at the recent end-of-year event 7-8th November, 2020 which was held at the SAAMBR airfield, Burpengary East.
Although the Saturday was fine the wind persisted from the South East to East. All 32 members present enjoyed good flights.
However, the wind and showers persisted over night and unfortunately, Sunday was showering with plenty of wind. No flights were seen prior to our general meeting which was held in the closed members shed.
Our appreciation is extended to the SAAMBR club for looking after us so well with their excellent facilities. We thank the caterers who provided us with plenty of yummy burgers, cakes, desserts. And what a surprise it was, to have pizza prepared for us by locals. Who wants to go to a restaurant with food like this????
We must mention our musical artist, Jason. He does more than specials on pre-loved aircraft and parts, he provided the entertainment on the Saturday night. Thanks Jason who came with his son Harley.
However, the wind and showers persisted over night and unfortunately, Sunday was showering with plenty of wind. No flights were seen prior to our general meeting which was held in the closed members shed.
Our appreciation is extended to the SAAMBR club for looking after us so well with their excellent facilities. We thank the caterers who provided us with plenty of yummy burgers, cakes, desserts. And what a surprise it was, to have pizza prepared for us by locals. Who wants to go to a restaurant with food like this????
We must mention our musical artist, Jason. He does more than specials on pre-loved aircraft and parts, he provided the entertainment on the Saturday night. Thanks Jason who came with his son Harley.
Suncoast - Sunshine
Suncoast Model Flyers Inc.
By Saturday morning the expected rain had disappeared leaving blue skies, dry runways and only a moderate southerly wind.
We thank President John Hansen, his canteen assistants and members of Suncoast Model Flyers Inc. for suggesting we come to their airfield on the 15th and 16th August, 2020. Our time together was appreciated and enjoyed by SCAF members who were able to share the excitement of flying warbird aircraft. Most pilots scored two or more flights during Saturday and Sunday with several members taking home a small prize.
We thank President John Hansen, his canteen assistants and members of Suncoast Model Flyers Inc. for suggesting we come to their airfield on the 15th and 16th August, 2020. Our time together was appreciated and enjoyed by SCAF members who were able to share the excitement of flying warbird aircraft. Most pilots scored two or more flights during Saturday and Sunday with several members taking home a small prize.
Tyson Dodd the secretary of MAAA - Model Aeronautical Association of Australia is pictured above with his magnificent looking Tucano aircraft.
The Super Tucano is a trainer aircraft that features faster speed and higher altitude capabilities.
The prototype of the Super Tucano first flew in 1992.
Both Tucano and Super Tucano have been developed and built by Embraer of Brazil.
The Super Tucano is a trainer aircraft that features faster speed and higher altitude capabilities.
The prototype of the Super Tucano first flew in 1992.
Both Tucano and Super Tucano have been developed and built by Embraer of Brazil.
Jason's S/H Bargain Centre
If it's a wheel, propeller, spinner, servo, a slightly used engine, a muffler to fit or some other item you have been looking for, Jason's S/H Bargain Centre is for you.
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Jason has some near-new aeroplane kits and a few pre-loved aircraft you may like to take home. Some come with an engine whilst others are without an engine.
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When at Warbirds, don't miss out on a bargain. Join the others fossicking through various boxes and tables in hunt for the 'Lost Golden Gem'.
Below, is a sample of the aircraft on show during the weekend. Click on first photo to see 'Full View' slideshow.
Up, Up and Away !
Our first get together since the outbreak of Covid-19 was on the 18-19th July, 2020 at
We were blessed with fine, blue skies on both days, although the mornings were cold. On Saturday, the light winds which arrived in the morning, dissipated during the late afternoon making ideal flying conditions until sundown. Sunday which had only a light breeze, was perfect for flying.
Our appreciation is extended to the Tin Can Bay Model Flying Club Inc for opening their airfield and for the warm hospitality we received over the weekend.
Most pilots brought with them three or more aircraft, making a very impressive line-up of various makes and scale of aircraft.
The Airco DH.2 was a single-seat biplane "pusher" aircraft which operated as a fighter during the First World War. It was the second pusher design by aeronautical engineer Geoffrey de Havilland for Airco, based on his earlier DH.1 two-seater.
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This year the Rick Rogers Memorial Trophy was presented by our president Bill Sharpe to Neil Low of the Tin Can Bay Club Inc, in recognition of his building skills as seen in the de Havilland DH.2 above and in his other scale aircraft.
It is good to have RCMA Model & Hobby Shop of Brendale as a SCAF sponsor. Their assistance (which we appreciate) is the 'icing on the cake'. It has allowed more members to participate in the prize presentations.
Below, is a sample of the aircraft on show during the weekend. Click on first photo to see 'Full View' slideshow.
Warbirds - The Way to Fly!
Since 1998 when our late founding member, Rick Rogers, formed the Southern Cross Air Force, members have been flying warbird aircraft from airfields throughout South East Queensland.
Events consist of either one day or week-end trips away to other airfields hosted by clubs who look forward to seeing our favourite aircraft in action.
Ample time is allowed for us to talk with other pilots, visitors, and our good friends who enjoy looking over warbird aircraft. |
Whether the aircraft is powered by a jet engine, propeller driven glow, petrol or electric motor, all add to the excitement of flying radio controlled warbirds.
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Our Objects
The SCAF was formed for the purpose of fostering, advancing the construction and operation of radio controlled Warbird aircraft (of all sizes) where pleasure, recreation, fellowship and co-mingling can exist amongst individuals who enjoy the sport of Warbird aircraft.
Warbird Aircraft
The SCAF defines a Warbird aircraft as a model of any aircraft used for military purposes by any country at any time. It must be a scale or semi-scale rendering, recognizable as such, and marked accordingly. Any prototype offered to the military but not accepted by them would also fall in this category.
The SCAF was formed for the purpose of fostering, advancing the construction and operation of radio controlled Warbird aircraft (of all sizes) where pleasure, recreation, fellowship and co-mingling can exist amongst individuals who enjoy the sport of Warbird aircraft.
Warbird Aircraft
The SCAF defines a Warbird aircraft as a model of any aircraft used for military purposes by any country at any time. It must be a scale or semi-scale rendering, recognizable as such, and marked accordingly. Any prototype offered to the military but not accepted by them would also fall in this category.
ARF Warbirds are also quite acceptable assuming that they display a good scale quality.
Scale Military Helicopters also are included in the Warbird aircraft class.
Scale Military Helicopters also are included in the Warbird aircraft class.