Regional Rally

Another good week of flying for ERW. On Sunday Gary was towing, Greg Foster was back in the air again, and Nick had a busy week instructing.

However, the highlight must be the Regional Rally. This is a major event for the club and puts our reputation on the line. Thanks to Steve Whitren and David Burke, the whole weekend went like clockwork and visitors were treated to an extremely professionally run event.


(Photos – Aircraft parked outside the Terminal)
Friday was the practice day with planes arriving and some in the air under perfect conditions. Conditions on Saturday were a little more challenging. A gusty 10 to 15kt wind tested even the most experienced pilots. Despite the conditions, there were some excellent performances.

The morning started with a 8.00am briefing. The Air cadets staffed the spot landing grid, Dave King made sure that pilots were ready and on time for their event, Steve Whitren was the safety officer and COFC contact, Dave Burke, Nigel Forrester and Gary Wilson worked with Flying NZ to make sure every thing run smoothly. Roger Bennet lead the team judges that included Carlton Campbell, CAA Safety Officer and this years Ínstructor of the year’ award winner. My task was ground traffic control.


(Photos – Steve Whitren, Dave Burke and Gary Wilson club members. CAA Carlton Campbell )
The prize giving dinner was held at the District Club with Roger Bennet recalling his early experiences of competition flying. Certificates were presented by Flying NZ President Paul Drake. Congratulations to Dave Burke and Pauline Hogue on their wins in their events.

We have two more major events coming up in the next few months. Its great to see that the flying club is developing a social profile in the aviation community.

Happy flying

Stephen Morton