The changing styles of aerobatics

The changing styles of aerobatics

Aerobatics is not a stagnant sport. The rules evolve and change. The aircraft available change also, more power, more roll rate - more of everything. New pilots also come along with new ideas. While the core figures and elements may not change a whole lot, the combinations of them and where they are placed in the sequence definitely change.

 Fig.1

Unlimited Frees from the 70’s (Fig.1 Zlin 526) and early 80’s (Fig.2 Henry Haigh, Haigh Superstar 1988 Free) look like extended Intermediate sequences to today’s eyes.

Fig.2

The number of figures allowed in the Free was reduced to 9 sometime after this, and sequences from the early 90’s are quite similar to today. In the late 90’s a bonus point system was introduced for Frees with fewer than 9 figures. This led to amazingly complex 7 figure Frees that were very busy to fly, and also made rational judging a superhuman task. (Fig.3 Cassidy Free 1999, CAP-222).

 Fig.3

This experiment was dropped and the 9 figure Unlimited Free returned. This does not mean change has stopped, however (Fig.4 Mamistov Free 2008, Su-26M3).

Fig.4

A smart sequences with an even spread of K and designed to minimize losses. One exception would be the use of a full 4-roll rolling circle. It is difficult to get a good score on any roller, so usual practice would be to use the lowest K roller possible, and place it late in the sequence so as not to colour the judges’ opinion of other figures. Mamistov’s later 2011 and 2013 sequences did change the roller for a simpler one, influenced no doubt by the 2010 increase in K for all rollers. Similar comments may be made about the super-eight figure – lots of steady looping segments and 45’s with rolls to be centred. The figure is slow flying and allows judges to nit pick many elements, so hard to score well with. On the other hand it is a relatively easy figure to practice and refine to perfection, as Mamistov, twice powered world champion, obviously does.

Often recommended when designing a Free is to start with a killer figure at VNE and zoom to the moon – and this is the usual practice today. It conforms with the traditional approach of starting with lots of energy, assuming you will have less as you progress through the sequence (Fig.5 Le Vot WAC 2013 Free).

 Fig.5

But this doesn’t suit everyone, particularly if you are ‘slow starter’ and take a figure or two to settle and get into the groove. If this is you, it may be better to start with a technically simpler figure and build through the flight (Fig.6 Cooper Free WAC 2013).

Fig.6

Supporting this ‘cautious’ approach is the fact you don’t get any chance to practice your start in the Free Programme – just the safeties and then straight into it. You should also consider that at a large International comp you may have to wait days between the Known and the Free – how current and fresh will you feel when your 15 minutes of fame comes?

That said, I think you can see a definite shift in Free design (the exception that proves the rule?). Possibly this latest move can be attributed to Renaud Ecalle and his Free of 2010 (Fig.7).

Fig.7

The horizontal start figure, able to be flown at the bottom of the box, is the defining characteristic of the new design style. Then the sequence climbs up for the spin and tailslide, and back down to finish with a minimalist roller at the bottom of the box. Maintaining energy throughout the sequence is not the concern it once was. These types of figures are also appearing more often elsewhere in sequences. Here is another start figure (Fig.8):

 Fig.8

Accuracy and confidence are needed to make these explosive starts work for you (and no little amount of skill). Only 4 of the 57 Frees at the last WAC began with similar low rolling figures. Notable proponents were Holland, Thomas and Boerbon (2nd, 4^th and 8^th in the Free, respectively, USA). It doesn’t suit everyone, and it needs to be executed flawlessly. Maybe it is a risk that needs to be taken only if you are gunning for the World Title?

2014

8/1/14

2014 Membership Renewals

All memberships are now due for renewal. Please go to the webstore and select your option and follow the instructions. Note that the preferred payment method is direct deposit and use your name and member number as reference on the payment.

Victorian Championships

The Vic Champs will be held at Tocumwal 2o-23rd February. Contest details and entry from will be on the website soon.

AAC AGM

Will be held at Tocumwal afer flying Thursday 20th February. Formal notice will be issued closer to the date, however committee nominations must be received 28 days prior, i.e. by 23 Jan 2014. A sample nomination form is available here.
Something else to amuse you all....15th at the WAC was young Baptiste.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=582019118501994

24/2/14

2014 Nationals

I wish to confirm that the 2014 Australian Aerobatic Championships will be held hosted by the SA Chapter at Waikerie 5-9 November 2014.

Rolling Record!

One of our members, Kingsley Just, is planning to set a new world record for the number of continuous rolls to raise money for medical research. Read more about it here
408 rolls.......that should only take about 6 minutes in the Giles!

24/2/14

From Charles regarding the Vics
Life is short. Flying is life. Don't short change your life by missing an opportunity to fly at the Vics next week.
We are happy to accept late registrations but it will now cost you a beer in addition to your comp fee.
The weather is looking very good and there is plenty of accommodation available in beautiful Tocumwal. http://www.accuweather.com/en/au/tocumwal/13255/daily-weather-forecast/13255?day=6
Check out the entry form and comp details here.
Don't delay, register today; and come fly with us next week.
Regards .. Charles Greatrex
AAC Vic Competition Secretary
On behalf of the 2014 Victorian Aerobatics Competition organising committee.
All me if you have any questions on 0419 313 161

6/3/14

For those not yet aware, I stepped down as President of the AAC at the AGM a couple of weeks back. My intention was always to do three years, and the time had come.
I'd like to thank the committee for their support over that period as we initiated and implemented many changes. The feedback from numerous members was also heartening, and I thank you for letting me know what you thought, both good and bad! Communicating is important in all parts of life, and even if it becomes emotive on occasion, it is better than not communicating at all. Get it out, get over it, and look ahead.
The new committee is being formed by Paul and Mal, and the Club will be ably led into the future. Competition fields have been strong, new competitiors and many pilots moving up the grades. I think the sport will always have challenges, but generally we are in OK shape. Their are many capable people within the Club with the necessary skills - don't undersell yourself, we can all contribute something to the sport (and we each must to keep things running).
While I am not planning to hold any position of responsibility for a while, I will still be active in the sport competing (but smiling more), issuing low levels, maybe an airshow or two and coaching (if anyone will listen!).
As is my wont, I'll finish with a video! One of the greatest aerobatic pilots and a 300L(?), on a cold day I suspect.
take care and fly safe,
Grant

2013

2/1/13

Not 'Ho, Ho, Ho', but 'Hi-ho, hi-ho, it's back to work we go', unfortunately. Feels like I haven't stopped.
Memberships are now due for renewal. Please visit the webstore to renew (please use the 'renewal' option!!).
Remember, first competition is the Vic Champs early March. Standby for Boot Camp and AGM details.
safe flying

20/1/13

Victorian Championships

The Vic Champs are confirmed to be held on the previously listed dates (March 7-10). Accommodation has been found available at the establishment below:
18 cabins available, each with 2 bedrooms - 1 double and the other with 3 singles as bunks.
Also an onsite caravan and a lodge with 8 rooms each with 4-5 beds in each- available for any overflow.
BYO bed linen and towels.
Cabins $120 per night
Lodge rooms $45 per night.
Time Out Holiday Resort, Located Near Tocumwal, With Our Own Beach's Airstrip & Country Views.
19 Bridge St, Tocumwal VIC 2714, Australia
Phone number(03) 5874 2031
Main Email Addressdavidnpam@westnet.com.au
Please make your own bookings ASAP as all other accommodation is taken due to a hot rod show on the same weekend. Entry forms etc. will be posted on the website soon.

AGM

The AAC AGM will be held during the Vic Champs. Standby for official notice and associated details.

Bootcamp

Due to lack of planning and personnell, the bootcamp flagged for February has been postponed until May. I'll advise as soon as firm dates and plans are made.

Membership Renewals

We've had quite a few membership renewals already, but for those who haven't yet, could you please do so. It makes the admin load lighter if the Secretary gets all the memberships in one lump rather than dribble in over the year.

Key Rule Changes

The AAC Regulations and JHSC are being revised at present. The 2013 CIVA Section 6 should be issued soon also. Key changes are:
Sportsman will have Known, Free and and Unknown flights.
Intermediate will have Known, Free and Unknown (one only) and will use the 2013 Y52 sequences and figures.
Judges will no longer have to assess box outs.
ADV and UNL Q flights will now be counted in final results.

The best CAP-232 driver around at present?

 5/2/13

2013 AAC AGM

We will be holding the AAC AGM on the Thursday night of the Victorian Champinships. Information and forms are available here. Nominations must be returned no later than this coming Thursday 7th February. I apologise for the short notice. Please consider nominating if you wish to help determine the future direction of the Club.

Membership Renewals

Keep them coming!

Aresti Dictionary

It is expected that many of the basic figures will be removed from the permitted Unknown figure section of the upcoming 2013 issue of CIVA Section 6. This will leave us without any handy reference to many base figures in the Aresti system when designing a sequence. Aresti dictionaries can be purchasd direct from Aresti for 13.5 Euro, plus postage. The AAC may be able to negotiate a bulk discount if enough are interested. If you would like to purchase a copy, let me know this month please.

Olan Update

I have heard that OLAN has been updated to 2013 specs. Check and see if it rocks your boat.

Victorian Champs

We should have the contest information on the website soon. Patience Grasshopper.

9/2/13

Vic Champs

The entry forms and contest information for the upocoming Victorian Aerobatic Championships are attached. These documents will also be availablew via the website.

2013 Australian Aerobatic Championships date change

Due to a conflicting event at Temora we have had to move the planned dates forward one week to 6-10th November. I sncerely hope this doesn't affect anyone planning on attending.

Avalon Airshow

Congrats to Jeremy Miller gaining a display slot at the airshow in the mighty Decathlon! Can't wait to see the shoulder rolls. Other aerobatic displays will be flown by Matt Hall in his MXS-R, Mellissa Pemberton in Mark McNicol's Edge-540 and Mark Jefferies flying Dieter Ebeling's Extra 330LX.

16/2/13

Victorian Champs

Please note that payments for the Vic comp must be made by direct deposit to the Vic Chapter account on the paperwork, not via the webstore.
Also, the 1400 briefing on Thursday 7th March is mandatory for Unlimited/ Advanced pilots and judges/officials only. The 1400 briefing on the Friday is mandatory for all participants.

Membership Renewals

Keep the memberships rolling in please, and spread the word to friends and family that Social and Chapter Only membership options are also available.

AGM Notice

Attached is the formal AGM Notice and Agenda. Please note the two motions to be put.
The first comes about as we had an excess of nominations for the Committee, as follows:
President - Grant Piper
Treasurer - Martyn Woodhouse
Club Captain - Paul Andronicou
Richard Wiltshire
Greg McConnell
Dave Clemence
Mal Beard
John Lee
Pete Pendergast
Jeremy Miller
Pete Townsend
I thought it better to welcome the 'new blood' for succession-planning purposes rather than having a ballot. Paragraph 43 of the AAC Articles of Association allows this:
43. The Club may from time to time by ordinary resolution passed at a general meeting increase or reduce the number of officers or other members of the Committee.
It's great to see new interest in the committee, and for succession planning a good mix of old and new hands. As I have stated before, I do not intend standing for a committee position next year, and there may be other retirements also.
The second motion is there to start the discussion, not an argument! I look forward to hearing everyone's views and ideas.
Thought of the day:- 'There are probably more dead pilots with surface waivers than live ones'

23/2/13

Sorry for the delay in issue of the 2013 AAC Regs, we should have it out soon now the 2013 CIVA Section 6 has been released .
There are minimal changes for Sportsman and below, apart from the addition of a Sportsman Unknown. ADV/UNL changes have been flagged to those pilots concerned.
Judges will no longer assess box outs, and there are some other detail judging changes. I'll try and fit in a brief at Tocumwal.
The changes for Intermediate category are more significant, now that we have adopted the CIVA Yak-52 rules. as follows.

Summary of Changes

Intermediate;

• CIVA Y52 known sequence to be used Y52 Known
• Free rules as per CIVA 4.3.3.1 (180K/12 figures)
• CIVA unknown figures (CIVA 9.1) and versatility (CIVA 4.3.3.6), K restrictions (CIVA 4.3.4.1)
• No Free Unknown 2.
• No Free Unknown. (Jury designed Unknown presented to pilots as per AAC 2012)
• No change in Intermediate Height limits or Safety Figures from AAC 2012
• Penalties/Time Limits as for CIVA (10 min Known, 15 min others).
• Positioning K =15 all flights.

5/3/13

2013 AAC Regulations

The 2013 Regs are now here for download. We will also soon send out the USB sticks again, pre-loaded with .pdfs of the documents. I still have some tidying up to do, but the content won't change.
Note the *NEW* initial issue of Section 1 - Administration. A place to keep all the admin stuff rather than clogging up the Section 2 - Operations part. Of most importance is the Media Manual (courtesy of the APF) and Serious Accident Response Plan (courtesy of the BAeA). Some items will move between Sections to where they fit best.

Intermediate

The Y52 Frees flown last year at the YakWAC are available here. For those that need a new Free and don't have time to design one, here are some proven sequences to start with.

AGM

As expected I guess, the motion below has caused some discussion ahead of the AGM.
'That the AAC Committee investigate methods of merging the AAC and Chapters into one organisation'
I wish to assure everyone that this is simply an opportunity to discuss the structure of the AAC and Chapters by the membership, and what changes might work better for us all. No decisions or conclusions are predestined. I admit I could have drafted a better Motion that didn't imply a solution when we haven't decided what the problems are exactly. I am considering an amendment to the motion at the AGM.

19/3/13

Vic Champs

Great weather and a great weeknd at sunny Tocumwal. Almost perfect weather for aerobatics, though a bit warm on occasion. 27 pilots from Entry up, which is good to see. Congrats to all who participated and well flown, some big improvements I did see. The new Unknowns and Knowns for Sportsman and Intermediate workerd Ok and kept people on their toes. Results are up on the website and I believe some pics are about also (FB?). Thanks to the organisers and officials for the weekend, from where I sat it all ran pretty well.
Only one narrowly averted incident that needs mentioning as a reminder that sh1t can always happen. An aircraft had a flat tire and was left on the taxiway between 36 and 27. I saw it on the way out, but on my return went into automatic and completely forgot it was there. Saw the Pitts at the last second and hit the brakes, lifting the tailwheel past level, and stopped with a metre or two to spare. Luckily no damage done, but it was almost very different. No one was in the parked aircraft, but it shook me up quite a bit.

AGM

The AGM was held in conjunction with the Vic Champs. The 2013 Committe is as follows:
President - Self
Treasurer - Martyn Woodhouse
Club Captain - Paul Andronicou
Richard Wiltshire
Greg McConnell
David Clemence
Mal Beard
Peter Pendergast
Peter Townsend
John Lee
Jeremy Miller

There was a good discussion on the future form of the Club, percieved problems and proposed solutions. It was gratifying to see such free and frank communication between the members at an AGM. Once the minutes are done I'll circulate them to all.

Websites

If anyone has some good aerobatic pictures, we could use some new ones to add to the website header rotisserie. Please have look on the hard drive and send them through.
On the topic of websites, it seems a busy time. Recent additions are a US-based forum: http://www.aerobaticsforum.com and this one is Europe-based: http://www.snap-and-roll.com/
And if you want to train in Spain, in a 330SC or Sbach: http://www.bestaerobatics.com/
Also a new competition to be held this year http://www.danubiacup.com/

Meanwhile in NZ

No, not another sheep joke Brad, but the NZ Nationals were held last weekend. And absent-but-not-forgotten Russell Bell won over Richard Hood in Advanced. (no Unlimited was flown). Well done Russell.

NSW AGM

All the NSW members hsould have been advised by now, but if you don't know already the NSW AGM is to be held at the AOPA hangar Bankstown Saturday 6th April at 4pm.
Until next time - Relax, Trim (if you have any) and Enjoy!

25/3/13

South Australian Championships

As per my last email, the SA Champs are on again at Murray Bridge April 11-13th, along with the Barosssa Valley Airshow on the Sunday. Details on the website.

West Australian Event

WA is also having a comp at Jurien Bay 20-21st April. Contact Adam Gibbs for info, we'll get something on the website soon.

AGM

Finally have the minutes etc done - thanks Jo. Attaching minutes and financials as reviewed by the Accountant. I've included some additional notes regarding the financials in the text of the minutes after questions at the meeting.

Bookeeper/Secretary

The Committee discussed this some time ago and agreed it would be a good step to employ part-time to assist with bookeeping and admin duties. The job description appears in Section 1 -Administration, Appendix 1-6, and is attached for reference.
I wish therefore to formally advertise the position to the membership. 4-6 hours per month, hourly rate to be negotiated. Please write to the Committee if you are interested. If we have no interested people from within the membership we will look outside.

WAC Update

Our Preliminary Entry has been submitted and accepted, along with the entry fees. We are still searching for aircraft, some have been confirmed. We have had one Team Meeting and should have more info up on the website soon. Various members have offered assistance in the leadup and during the WAC. Great to have some friendly support at the event to take some of the load off the pilots.

Boot Camp

We are planning another Boot Camp at Yarrwonga 29th May -2 June. Info and bookings will be open on the website shortly, limited to six places. The last was well received and it is a good way to hasten progress. Funds raised will go to the WAC fund.

Attachments

2013 AAC Accountant's Report
2013 AAC AGM Minutes
2013 Secretary/Bookeeper Job Description
 3/5/13

Aresti Catalogues

I have 2013 Power Aresti Dictionaries available for immediate delivery. Limited numbers, so if you want one let me know ASAP. $28 ea. including (domestic) postage.

CASA Radio Exemption

CASA has reissued the radio exemption as EX35/13. Note the sensible improvements over the last one.

CIVA Section 6 Clarification Regarding Direction of Flight Cross-Box

Quoting (associated explanation here):
CIVA President Lars Arvidsson has asked me to send out a clarification of Regulation 6.6 and more specifically 6.6.1.5. following a query on how this rule is to be interpreted, please find the attached summary,
Best regards,
John Gaillard
Chairman CIVA Judging Sub-Committee

2014 Intermediate/Y52 World Championship - South Africa

I've had one expression of interest from a member wanting to participate in this event. So if you are also of a mind to throw your hat in the ring, give it some thought and planning time and let me know.

SA Champs

By all accounts a good competiton, well run, safe, and enjoyable. 20 pilots, results in the usual place.

WA Mini-Comp

The WA Chapter was also having a run a Jurien Bay but I've not heard any reports yet.
To that end, I'd like to see reports of events written that we can put on the webpage. It doesn't have to be long, just a quick wrap of the event at the end of the weekend. Even some pics. Keeps the webpage active and fresh, for those not actually at the event.
Fly safe.

19/6/13

Winter is here, and finally a little rain. 'nuff of the farmer talk.

Queensland Championships

Are on 26-29th July hosted by the Watts Bridge Chapter.......details are on their website

West Australian Championships

Are to be held at Murrayfield 7-8th September. We'll get the details on to the website soon. The sandgropers have asked if experienced volunteers are available to assist with the running of the competition. If you are interested contact Adam Gibbs or myself. WA are great hosts and will look after you, and the AAC can help subsidise travel costs if required.

Aresti Dictionaries

I still have some 2013 editions available - $25 each including postage. Very handy for drawing and checking sequences when you don't know the catalogue numbers by heart, even when using a computer programme.

Openaero.net

What a segue. For those that haven't tried it yet, Openaero has some very handy features and is worth a look.

Sportsman Unknowns Archive

A Sportsman pilot has asked me if we are keeping an archive of Sportsman Unknowns now that we are flying them. The short answer is no, I haven't. But if people could send me what they have flown at recent comps I'll get them on the website. Ditto for the other categories.
Gravity always wins.

2/7/13

The performance is good but the canopy leaks are a bit cool - winter is here. Some links for your long winter evenings:
An excellent recent interview with Xavier de Lapparent at Snap & Roll, and a video also. Incredible that he won the Breitling World Cup and was World Champion at age 24! What hope for us underachievers?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIXKrA_MJzE
And another old one - I haven't seen a Lazer this dynamic before. (turn the sound down and watch).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwWBtvYOihU
Finally, some silence. Luca Bertossio, 2012 World Advanced Champion in the Swift.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3NyptGJzLo
A reminder that the QLD Champs are on July 26.
Keep the rubber side up.

27/7/13

A quick update on things aerobatic. Many National comps in the northern hemisphere over the last month or so.
A quick wrap: Anselmo Gamez won the Spanish title ahead of Castor Fantoba. Francois le Vot is French Champion, and Gerald Cooper retained his British title in fairly new field of Unlimited pilots, missing the long-time competitor Tom Cassells. Of note in that comp is that the weather was good, and a visiting Japanese pilot, Tomonari Kaji, won the 2nd Free Unknown flying an Extra 200! The German's competed last weekend, with Martin Albrecht winning there.
Another reminder that the QLD champs are on soon, check out their webpage for entry details.
We have added some new photos to the webpage header, if you have more contact me and we'll get them slotted in also. We've updated the Team Australia page with pics and short bio's of the members. You may also note we have removed the credit card payment option on the webpage, as discussed at the AGM, direct deposit is now the preferred option.
T-shirt sales are a bit slow, but if you are in the market for beanie this winter, check out the AAC ones on the website.
don't crash

29/8/13

CIVA Stuff

The Known proposals for UNL/ADV/Y52/INT in 2014 are out for review prior to voting on at the next CIVA meeting. I've attached them here for your perusal. Read'em and weep.
Rule change proposals to be considered for 2014 are also available at http://www.fai.org/civa-about-us/civa-meetings if you wish to get ahead of the game.

European Advanced Championship

The European Advanced Championships were held just recently in Poland - see for info and results 'http://eaac2013.pl/results Simon de la Breteche won overall and the French cleaned up pretty much. If you go here you will find some video of the Russian flying, and current World Champion Mikhail Mamistov, who flew as warm-up pilot for the event!

2014 WAAC and Y52/INT Championships

Next year there are two international events on that AAC members have already expressed interest in. The World Advanced Aerobatic Championships will be held in Dubnica, Slovakia in August. We are in a very good position to send a full team of men to this event, so if this fits with your goals then start seriously thinking of how to make it happen. Contact me if you wish to discuss logistics etc.
The inaugaural combined Yak-52 and Intermediate competition will be held in Mossel Bay, South Africa November 2014. http://www.visitmosselbay.co.za/media-releases/mossel-bay-to-host-world-aerobatics-championship-in-2014
The AAC can provide moral and usually a little financial support for those competing overseas at Championship events, but the major effort rests with the individuals or Team to make it all happen. Being a CIVA-affiliated sporting club, the AAC supports participation in these events.

Scholarship

If you know of someone up-and-coming in the Club who deserves some assistance to reach their goals, then nominate them for the Matt Hall Racing Scholarship. A day of one-on-one coaching with Matt is the prize, full details are in Appendix 1-4 of the AAC Regulations. Send your nominations to me or your local AAC committee member.

Competitions

The Queensland Champs have been and gone. A good field with many southerners travelling north for some winter fun. The weather behaved I believe this year, apart from some fog. Well done on another safe comp. See here for full results.
We have the WA and NSW State Champs on in September, check the website for details. Note that the NSW Champs are to be held at Narromine, for something new. Facilities are excellent and the SAAA and Narromine Council have been very helpful. A bit further north for any Victorians travelling, but the weather should be good. A bit handier to the Queenslanders also. Accommodation is at a premium so make your bookings early.
Murrayfield is the location for the WA Champs, and Adam has put a lot of work into planning for the event. I can't attend either of the above, but wish both Chapters well with their competitions.
The 2013 Australian Championships at Temora should by now be more than pencilled in on your calendar. Preliminary details are on the website, and last weekend DCom and I visited Temora to ensure we had all the required equipment on-site and to recce dinner locations. If you are holding perpetual trophies from 2012 could you make arrangements to get them to Temora, and let me know please, so I don't worry, much.
I know it seems early, but some thought also needs to go into applications to host the 2014 Australian Championships. If your Chapter would like to host, then give it some thought and send something through to the AAC Committee by the end of September. I've had some input that we should look even further ahead and publish the location of the Nationals out for 3-4 years, so people can plan better. I heard a rumour of a combined WA/SA effort at Forrest in 2016......

PAN, PAN, PAN

The antennas to go with the NSW base station radio have gone missing. Last seen at Tocumwal (disputed!). If anyone knows the whereabouts of the items please let me know ASAP.

WAC 2013

No bad news so it's all good news. Rob Noonan and Paul Andronicou are leaving early September to fly the US Nationals, so that will be an excellent work-up. Rich Wiltshire has his MXS in Derby WA and flying daily - apparently no noise complaints up there! 63 entrants so far for the Championships, larger than recent fields. You can follow the event here.
And when I say it, I really mean it - don't crash.

21/9/13

It's 4:30am and Rob and Paul A. would be touching down in Dallas about now - the physical journey to WAC2013 has begun. The mental journey started many months ago. In the next couple of days they will get their US licences, recce the comp venue and do their US flight review and training in preparation for the US Nationals.. Richard, Paul B. and I will follow over the coming month.
It is interesting to look back at the history of the AAC in the top level of competition. The AAC was incorporated as a company in 1977, though we have competition results from as early as 1974, when Chris Sperou won at Point Cook, ahead of Guido Zuccoli, John Patterson, Hilton Selvey and Jim Scott. The results were repeated in 1976, again at Point Cook, ditto 1977 and 1978, but with Graham Goodson ion the mix. You can trawl through past results by following the archive links on the AAC website.
1978 is thefirst appearance of Australians at a WAC. The WAC was held in Czechoslovakia with Guido 31st, Hilton 38th and Rob Poynton 39th out of 48. Ivan Tucek won, Kermit Weeks came 2nd. 1980 was Oshkosh USA with the USSR boycott, and only 9 competitors shown on the CIVA website archive, 6 of which came 4th? Leo won this one, ahead of Henry Haigh. Rob Poynton, Bill Waterton and Frank Fry from Oz were there. I'll have to research what exactly happenned there, I didn't think weather cut the programme short.
Austria 1982 Victor Smolin,finished at the top ahead of Henry Haigh and Manfred Strossenreuther. Frank Fry came in 22nd, Chris Sperou 24, Geoff Selvey 29 and Hilton Selvey 38 out of 65. Interestingly, Frank Fry was one behind Claude 'Coco' Bessiere wheo went on to win in 1990 and is now long time coach/manager of the French Team.
1984 was Hungary and Petr Jirmus (CZ) won ahead of Manfred Strossenreuther (Germany - the Western bit). Frank Fry came in 8th, the best result ever for an Australian, flying a Laser. Geoff Selvey was 21, Chris Sperou was 21, and the evergreen Mal Beard 37 in a field of 48. This is the year the Sukhoi 26 appeared and changed the game.
I'll continue with this next time, I can hear the cows calling me.

21/9/13

WA Comp a success, results up on the AAC website, and a short vid.Good job Adam and the WA mob, as well as Dave Clemence who travelled across to CJ. If you peruse the results you will see one Bill Waterton back in the saddle! Wonderful stuff.
URGENT: Upcoming NSW Champs, entry info is on website here: please enter ASAP, as no one has yet! DCom is getting worried......also note late entries after 17th Sep may attract a late fee.
Continuing on from the last update, some extra info has come my way. The full 1980 results are as below - excellent team work by Bill Waterton, Frank Fry, Rob Poynton, Hilton Selvey and Chris Sperou.
1. LOUDENSLAGER Leo - USA - Laser 200
2. HAIGH Henry - USA -Pitts S1S
3. WEEKS Kermit - USA - Weeks Special
4. STROSSENREUTHER Manfred - FRG - Zlin 50L
5. MELTON Chipper - USA - Pitts S1S
6. COLLIER Tom - USA - Pitts S2S
7. BRANDT Michael - SWI - Christen E-1
8. SCHWEIZER Christian - SWI - Christen E-1
9. MUELLER Eric - SWI - Cap 21
10. PENA Louis - FRA - Cap 21
11. WATERTON Bill - GBR - Pitts S1S
12. MEESON Philip - GBR - Pitts S1S
13. JOURDAN No�l - FRA - ASA 200
14. FRY Frank - AUS - Pitts S1S
15. PRICE Gordon - CAN - Ultimate Pitts
16. LIESE Hermann - FRG - Zlin 50L
17. GOODE Richard - GBR - Pitts S1S
18. POYNTON Rob - AUS - Pitts S2S
19. PADDEN Ian - GBR - Pitts S2S
20. COLLIERE Bernard - FRA - Cap 20L
21. DALLAN Sergio - ITA - Cap 20L
22. FEUGRAY G�rard - FRA - ASA 200
23. SELVEY Hilton - AUS -Pitts S2S
24. SENIOR Ian - GBR - Pitts S1S
25. HARPER John - GBR - Pitts S1S
26. JAEGLE Wolfgang - FRG - Pitts S1S
27. SPEROU Chris - AUS - Pitts S1S
28. YOUNGER Gerry - CAN -Pitts S1S
29. TURVEY Nick - RSA - Pitts S1S
30. LAFILLE Jean-Pierre - FRA - Cap 20L
31. WURSTER Hermann - FRG -Pitts S1S
32. HAY Bob - RSA - Pitts S1S
33. EXTRA Walter - FRG - Pitts Extra
34. OTTEN Noel - RSA - Pitts S1S
35. PERCY Warren - RSA - Pitts S1S
36. JENKINSON Frank - CAN - Pitts S1S
37. LUCIA Massimo - ITA - Cap 20L
38. LOCATELLI Aldo - ITA - Cap 20L
39. NARDI Diego - ITA - Cap 20L
40. COLANGELO Nicola - ITA - Cap 20L
41. ZEEDERBERG Brian - RSA -Pitts S1S
42. KENNEDY Bill - CAN -Pitts S1S

Female
1. STEWART Betty - USA -Pitts S1S
2. JOHNSON Patti - USA -Pitts S2S
3. MOORE Paula - USA - Pitts S1S
4. MARION (MAUNOURY) Catherine - FRA - ASA 200
5. GEMINEL Fran�oise - FRA - Cap 20L
6. COLLIERE Rose-Marie - FRA - Cap 20L
7. ROUX (MAIRE) Marianne - FRA - Cap 20LS
8. COLLINGS Pam - NZE - Pitts S1S
9. PERRONET Sylvie - FRA - Cap 20L
Correction for 1984 in Hungary, Chris Sperou came 25th, right behind Jurgis Kairys.
In 1986 the WAC was hosted by the UK and Geoff Selvey came 24th, Chris Sperou 33rd, Peter Larsen 38th. Petr Jirmus (CZ) won, ahead of Kermit Weeks (USA) and Viktor Smolin (USSR).
1988 was held in Alberta, Canada, but the results are missing from the CIVA archive.
1990 was Switzerland's turn, and Coco Bessiere won ahead of Patrick Paris and Nicolay Nikitiuk (USSR), while there were no Australians.
1992 in France was a washout. 1994 was back to Hungary with a big field of 83. Australians competing were Steve Hart 60th, Bonnie Palmer 61st and Tom Moon 75th. This was Xavier de Lapparent's year, winning both the WAC and Breitling World Cup.
1996 was back to the USA, Oklahoma, and another big field of 79. The tables turned this time, Tom Moon 53rd and Steve Hart 61st. Viktor Chmal (RU) prevailed ahead of Patrick Paris (FR) and Nicolay Timofeev (RU). Interestingly, both Paris and Timofeev are going to compete at this year's WAC after a long competition break. Paris as an Independent and Timofeev as an American! It will be a privilege to see them fly.
1998 was in Slovakia and Patrick Paris won, but I can't find full results of this contest either.
The year 2000 France hosted, and Frenchman Eric Vazeille prevailed ahead of Mikhail Mamistov (RU) and Eddie Dassau (FR). John Ambler came 31st out of 49.
Another WAC was held in 2001 as the event moved from even to odd years. However, it was not until 2011 in Italy when Richard Wiltshire and Paul Andronicou competed that Australians again ventured afield, managing 41st and 35th, respectively.
The FAI website has most of the results archived here and more recent contests here. Snap and Roll has a good wrap on the history of aerobatic competition on their website here
Roll on Texas, 27 sleeps to go.

21/9/13

 NSW Championships
Next week end at Narromine. The comp details are on the website. Should be a great venue so go take a look if you can.
WA Champs Full results are up now, and another vid of the event here.
Classifieds A few movements in aircraft ownership about the place, and some fresh listings in our classifieds section - check it out.
Past WAC Results Funnily enough, wikipedia has a good summary of all the past World Championships! Best of all, in the reference section at the bottom are links to the German Aerobatics website which has complete listings with no omissions. So the missing 1988 Alberta results - Henry Haigh, Kermit Weeks, Jurgis Kairys - no Aussies attending. One extra Aussie international result to mention is Matt Hall at the 2008 EAC - H/C but 24th in the points standing. Mamistov and Ecalle 1st and 2nd - what a line up!
2013 Australian Aerobatic Championships The details of this year's Championships should be on the website this week. Please download and read the Event Management Plan as well as the entry form. We have booked both the Museum bunkhouses as well as the caravan park bunkhouses. When you ring to book a bed, tell them you are with the AAC. Also, do not bulk-book unless you are sure of filling the beds please.
Next time you head out to try some positive conic lomcevaks, have a look at this first.

2/11/13

WAC WRAP

Thanks to all who wished us well while away at the WAC, and I apologise if we didn't perform up to expectations. Must be something going around that affects Australian swimmers, footballers, cricketers and tennis players....seriously though, it was great to get your messages and wonderful to have so many Aussies turn up at the event and support us. Shows that there is great interest in the sport at this level. With fear I may omit someone, I'll list those who dropped in to say gidday: David, Jenny, Navec, Greg, Rod, Warren, Charlie, Dan, Dieter and Darrel and family. Thank you all.
Full results are here.
Rob had a solid Known, while the rest of us struggled to get it together. High wind and poor comp organisation meant delays and stop-start flying throughout. It rained for four days before we could complete the Known, meaning many pilots hadn't flown since practice prior to the comp starting. Personally, it was 7 days between flying the Known and the Free.
The Free programme went quicker, with wind rules relaxed to 14 m/s and no boundary judges. Rob had another solid flight but got blown onto the judges. Paul flew a barnstorming Free with excellent positioning and accuracy deserving of his score. Rich's Free was pretty well flown and deserving of better marks I thought. My Free went as planned, which was a relief after my horror Known.
Then, due to the limited time remaining, it was proposed that a 50% cut be made so they could complete the Unknown 1 Programme for the top pilots. Thus we only got two competition flights in ten days - very disappointing after the time, effort and $$ expended. To conclude on a high note, we did beat the Canadians in the Team points standing!
I'll write some more on the WAC at a later time, but for now here are some vids of Mamistov at work: Outside, and inside. And you may get a view of the new World Champion at work here.

2013 Australian Aerobatic Championships

We've received 15 entries thus far, and with normal entries closing tomorrow can I ask you to expedite your applications if you intend participating. Our landline has been down for a week, so if you have tried faxing your entry without success, drop us an email as a headsup. I will advise when we are receiving faxs again for you to fax your entry through.
If you plan to practice at Temora ahead of the comp, please note that our NOTAM and CASA Instrument will only be active from the Wednesday onwards. Flying ahead of this will be a private activity only with the normal procedures and considerations (ie. remain on CTAF and above 500ft).

2/11/13

Sorry to bother you again so soon. To the point:
1. Our fax is working again 02-63774556.
2. Remember, you must be a national AAC member to fly at the Nationals.
3. We have received 33 entries so far, but about 15 haven't paid the entry fee. Does this sound like you? Per the EMP;
Entry fees may be paid via EFT to the following AAC account. Please quote your membership number and surname on the EFT transfer.
BSB: 084 402 Account Number: 54 237 1674
4. 2014 Competition Calendar - if any Chapters have dates yet for their 2014 competition, please let me know so we can get them on the website pronto.
5. 2014 Nationals - where and when? Again, Chapters need to consider if they wish to host the event next year.
6. Planning a judging seminar next Tuesday night before the comp. Not that you all need it after a full year's work-up. Beer and pizza accompaniment.
7. To finish on a more enjoyable note, try this link for some good stuff or search vendee sports. aeriens.

2/11/13

Further answers to questions I have had:
The bank account name is Australian Aerobatic Club, NAB. Please quote your membership number and surname on the EFT transfer. BSB: 084 402 Account Number: 54 237 1674
Trophies - could all those holding perpetual trophies please arrange to have them returned to me at Temora prior to the presentation dinner Saturday.
Dinner tickets will cost $45 and be on sale at Temora. Please advise ASAP if you are attending for catering purposes.
Intermediate Official Practice - contrary to the draft programme there will be an official practice flight (10min) for Intermediate on Wednesday, IAW AAC Regs.
34 entries so far.

2/11/13

Australian Aerobatic Championships

The 2013 Nationals were held successfully at Temora a short while ago. 37 registered pilots across all grades, including three in Unlimited and several first-time competitors. This is an excellent turn out and everyone pulled their weight to get the 102 incident-free flights done. The only flights dropped were the Advanced 2nd Unknown due to weather. Well done everyone.
Particular thanks go to David Pilkington for being CJ and spending many hours on the judging line, and to Annete in the office assisted by Di Stone and Kay Vernall. The Temora Council and Aero Club were also excellent in their support.
Richard Wiltshire is once again Australian Aerobatic Champion - well flown Rich. There was also some outstanding flying in other categories resulting in high scores. Overall highest percentage score went to Dieter Ebeling, EA-330LX Interrmediate, Highest First Time Sportsman went to Lyndon Trethewey, RV-6 and the Team Trophy went to NSW ahead of WA and SA. For full results are here.
For those that took pictures at the Nationals and the Presentation dinner, could you please email some through to Peye Prendergast.
For those people who received trophies at the Nationals, we will get the final ones engraved and sent out as soon as possible.

2014 Nationals

Any Chapter interested to host the 2014 Nationals please let me know, as I'd like to discuss it at this week's committee meeting.

2014 Calendar of Events

Similarly, the dates for comps and other activities for 2014 needs to be considered now. If you have a date in mind for your competition in 2014, send it through to me.

2014 Known Sequences

The CIVA Known sequences (Intermediate/Y52, Advanced and Unlimited) have been issued and I will get copies on the website ASAP. If you want them immediately they are on the CIVA website to download. Sportsman, Graduate and Entry Knowns for 2014 will be available by January. If you wish to submit a sequence for these categories get it to me ASAP.

AAC Regulations

Review of the AAC Regs will take place over summer, if you have Rule Change Proposals get them to me in a legible format ASAP.

2014 International Competitions

There is much interest by members in attending the inaugaural Intermediate World Championship in South Africa next year, as well as the World Advanced Aerobatic Championships in Slovakia. If you wish to participate in either of these and haven't contacted me yet, please do so.
Until next time, Relax, Trim and Enjoy!

16/12/13

2014 Comp Dates

Vic Champs 20-23 Feb
SA Champs 2-4 April
NSW Champs 5-7 Sep
QLD Champs 25-27 Jul
WA TBA
Nationals 5-9 or 19-23 November TBC, location TBA.
Another request, if you have pictures taken at the recent Nationals in Temora and the Presentation Dinner, please send them to Peter Pendergast for upload to the webpage.

2014 AGM

Plan to hold this at the Vic Champs.
Another vid from the WAC http://vimeo.com/80366005
And the bid video for the 2014 EAC - what is the last bit about?

22/12/13

A short wrap to finish the year and let you get back to the xmas spirit!

Statistics (no lies)

During 2013 we flew about 240 competition flights by my figuring, without any accidents or serious incidents. Well done to all who flew and managed our operations - pat yourselves on the back for an outstanding result. Let's do it again in 2014.

2014 Sequences

The Known sequences for 2014 are now available from the Sequences page.

Matt Hall Racing Scholarship

I am pleased to announce that Cass Moeller is the 2013 recipient of the MHR Scholarship. Cass, with partner Pete and the AAA crowd have been regular competitors at just about every comp over the last few years. The visible improvement and consistency in their flying is gratifying to see, and Cass's flying at the 2013 Nationals was the best I'd seen from her. Past recipients have been Ben Brazier and Adrian van der Sluys. Maybe we can nudge Cass up to Advanced in the near future.......:)

Tocumwal

The AAC recently received a letter from Berrigan Shire (Tocumwal) with a list of charges they intend applying from Jan 2014. They want $1000 pa for up to two events per year, and for single use it is $50 per aircraft per 3 day booking period. These charges make it quite undesirable to operate there, despite the excellent facilities, IMO.
A little bit of French history in this video and an iconoclastic little excerpt that changes everything - shattered I was.
Fly safe and Merry Xmas.

2012

11/1/12

Ho, Ho, Ho!
Apologies for interrupting the Xmas wind-down. Just a few quick updates for you.

AWPA Aerobatic and Formation Scholarship

The Australian Women Pilots Association has an annual scholarship sponsored by the RAAF for a female pilot to get an aerobatic or formation endorsement. Check out the details here.
Applications are being received now for 2012, closing at the end of January 2012, so if you are interestd or know someone who may be please pass the information on.

South Australian Championships

As mentioned previously, SA is planning a State Championship for 2012. Please note the date has been amended to the week after Easter; Thursday 12-Saturday 14th of April. Presentations will be Saturday night with Sunday as a weather spare. All comp dates for 2012 are on the website now.

West Australia

The WA Chapter is also planning a mini-comp and training week/end 9-12th February 2012. They would like some assistance from an experienced AAC person or persons. The AAC is providing admin support to get the necessary approvals from CASA but we also need people on the ground to help run the event and guide a new Chapter in its debelopment. The AAC will pay airfares for up to two suitable people to attend and fill the key positions - CD and CJ. Conducting seminars on comp organisation and judging would form part of the duties. If you are interested in helping out please contact me.

Aresti Catalogue Changes

There has been a major revamp of the catalogue numbering system for 2012. I sent out a link to a .pdf copy of the new catalogue earlier that was on the CIVA website. This appears to have been removed now, so you had to be quick! Aresti SL will publish a new catalogue shortly I gather, and the new Section 6 will reflect the changes also. A summary of CIVA Rule changes is attached, the revised Section 6 will be out in the new year, as will the revised AAC Regulations.
Please note that this means you will have to update your Free sequences made with the old system for 2012, as the scoring software will no longer recognise old catalogue numbers.

International Judges

Congratulations to Paul Andronicou and David Pilkington on being accepted as International Judges by CIVA. Our current International Judges are : Paul A., Mal Beard, Liz Cook and David P.
Thanks!
To conclude, I wish to thank the AAC and Chapter Committees (and also AAA!) around the country for lifting the activity level within the Club and hosting regular aerobatic gatherings in 2011. 2012 looks like it will be a bumper year. Thanks to all who have assisted in organising and running these activities, and it is a credit to them, and all members, that we again have had an incident free competition year. I've enjoyed the feedback and the enthusiasm displayed by so many who are motivated to take the sport forward in this country. Thankyou all.
Rest easy, fly safe.

14/1/12

Welcome back.

AGM

The 2012 AAC AGM will be held at Tocumwal prior to the Victorian Championships. Notice of meeting, Nominations and proxy forms are attached. Please note return dates.

AAC Rules

The 2012 AAC Regulations should be finalised within the next week. They will be considered at a committee meeting Monday. Paul Andronicou, Rob Noonan, Greg McConnell and I have spent a fair bit of time on this - thanks guys.

Membership Renewals

Memberships are due now (end of December actually..), but we've been battling the web gremlins. Happily, I can now say the webstore is 'open'. Payment can be made via either credit card (now secured by NAB gateway) or direct deposit.
Our merchandise is there, as will be comp entry fee payment options, as well as membership. Follow the links from the Membership page, and please note the membership options available to new members, including 'Social' for some Chapters. So spread the word and get all the budding aerobatic enthusiasts you know, or Significant Other, to join via this cheaper option. That way they will be kept informed of what we are up to and they can be as involved as they wish at competitions or other Chapter events.
Once again, there has been a great volunteer effort on the part of Mick hughes and Rob Noonan to get the webstore to this stage. We all owe them a couple of pots at Tocumwal.

25/1/12

Hello, just a few things to mention: 1. The inaugural SA Champs 12-14th April require a CJ. Could suitably qualified people please check their schedule and contact me or Dave Foord if able to help out.
2. The 2012 AAC Regulations are now on the website. We plan to send out a USB stick with the Regs and other info on them, along with the membership cards.
3. Membership Renewals are now available in the webstore. Please take the time to read and follow instructions, as it is a fair change from before.
4. Victorian Championships, 24-26th Feb, and you can pay your entry fees via the webstore also.
5. AGM - Thursday 23rd Feb 1830hrs. Nominations close this Friday.
6. CASR Part 61 - We are preparing an AAC submission to this proposed regulation. If members have comments to make on this Part please contact me or Anthony Crichton-Brown.

4/2/12

Accident Update

There will be a memorial service at Murray Bridge airport commencing at 2 pm on Friday 10 Feb for Rob Morgan. Anyone who wishes to attend would be most welcomed to do so. Hangarage and accommodation can be arranged, contact Dave Foord to arrange.

Media

Given the events of the past week, the Committee is going to develop a media and accident management package. In this we will specify a single point of contact for media enquiries. Until we complete this work, I request that ALL members refrain from making any comment on contentious issues and direct any enquiries to myself or Rob Noonan.

2012 CIVA Section 6

The revised Section 6 is now available here

Aresti Dictionary

Updated Aresti dictionary, in paper form, is available from here
About 15euro each I think, less if we want a bulk purchase.

AGM

Nominations have closed and we have no contested positions, thus no ballot required.

If in doubt, don't.

 9/2/12

Rules

The 2012 AAC Regulations are now available on the website for download, we shall also post out a copy with memberships. The latest CIVA Regs are also now available from the CIVA website.

17/2/12

Victorian Champs

The first competition of the year is on next week, starting Thursday at Tocumwal. Competition information and entries are being taken via the AAC website and webstore.

AGM

Next week also, Thursday night at the Border River Aero Club.

Rob Morgan Memorial

A Memorial service was held last Friday in SA for Rob. I have posted Chris Sperou's eulogy to Rob on the blog page.

Memberships

I haven't checked who has and who hasn't renewed their memberships, but they have been trickling in consistently. Please renew if you haven't already, and spread the word about Chapter and Social Memberships options.
We will have the membership register available at Tocumwal to ascertain who is current with memberships, so don't sweat the lack of a 2012 membership card yet.

29/2/12

AGM

 

The AAC AGM was held at Tocumwal last week, I will circulate the Minutes once done and have attached the audited financials for the Club FY 2011. Since receiving the financials form the auditor we have updated the merchandise stock list and identified the 'Misc' expenses mentioned as the WAC entry fees.
Nominations for committee were received as follows;

President: Grant Piper
Treasurer: Colin Appleton
Club Captain: Paul Andronicou
Member: Mal Beard
Member: Guy Hanby

We will meet soon and fill the casual vacancies.

Victorian Champs

A wonderful, and hot, weekend. The weather behaved until Sunday when some cloud interfered. An excellent field of one Unlimited, seven Advanced, seven Intermediate and six Sportsman pilots. Great to see such a solid turnout early in the season. Full results should be up on the website soon, preliminary results are:

Advanced: Al Kilpatrick
Intermediate: John Lee
Sportsman: Adrian van der Sluys
Well done guys. And well done to the Vic Committee for battling through the noise issues at Toc and making the comp happen. Special mention to Charles Greatrex, Rob Noonan, Paul Andronicou, Greg McConnell, Dave Clemence, Jeremy Miller and Jodie Davis, and last but not least, Lee Gordon-Brown for being everywhere and and doing anything to make our stay a good one. Thanks all.

Canopy Covers

As a result of branding myself with my harness buckles last weekend at Toc after leaving the Giles in the sun, I made enquiries about lightweight fly-away canopy covers. Bruce's custom covers has offered a discount to AAC members - I've ordered one.

22/3/12

Hello all:
Apologies for the delay in getting membership cards out to you, they should be going out this week or next. All Chapter Presidents have access to the membership database, so we know who's financial for AGMs, comps etc.
The Inaugural South Australian Championships are on in a mere 3 weeks! Generally we are short of helpers at comps, so bring a friend along if you can, and get them involved. It makes the sport more interesting if you learn more about it. Use State events and training days as opportunoties to practise your skills, and introduce friends to the sport. With the Nationals at the end of the year, everyone should be well practised by then.
Judging - the home study course is on the QLD website. Refresh yourself before attending a comp. We will be updating it soon with the 2012 changes. Major change is the more formlised positioning scoring method. Note Positioning K has decreased for both Advanced and Unlimited.
This would mean more if my French was better......

2/4/12

Below is a message from the SA Chapter President, Dave Foord, re. the upcoming competition:
Hi Fellas,

The SA state champs are on schedule to be held on 12 to 14 of april. The contest information and draft programme are now available on the aac national website. entry can be paid via the web store. entries are coming in steadily, and I would urge you to hurry yours along so the last minute rush can be avoided as much as possible.
The contest secretary Jodie Davis is encouraging you to email your documentation to her so that you can be effectively pre registered. I have used this myself on several occasions and it is the way to go. no problems forgetting a vital document.
The venue is Murray bridge aerodrome. the main runway is stabilised lime, and is in good condition. there are some limestone pebbles, about 1 cm diameter on the ends and sides of the main strip, but the central section is well clear of them.
Both sides of the main runway are 20m wide grass strips within the gable markers and are regularly used by the gliding club, crop spray aircraft and myself. the surface is very good and use of the grass strip eliminates any problem with small stones on the middle strip. the cross runway is all grass, and is also in good condition.
We have secured use of a large hangar and terminal buildings. all these plus the fuel bowser along with a nice grassed area are situated around one parking area and within 50 meters of each other which is great for the event. the main judges position will be very close to the parking area, so will be great for spectators to view the action, and we have a PA system organised to keep pilots, volunteers and interested spectators advised as the program progresses
If anyone is flying in by burner, get in touch with me as we will be bringing people up from adelaide airport by car and may have seats available.
Get those entries in and I look forward to seeing you at the competition.
Cheers

David Foord

29/4/12

Hello all, I hope you are all partaking of the beaut autumn weather for flying!

SA Champs

There was a good crowd at the recent inaugaural South Australian Aerobatic Championships held at Murray Bridge. Well done Dave Foord, Jesse Jury, Dave Clemence, Simon and Diane Stone, Jeremy Miller and Jodie Davis for organising and running the event. Results are up on the website. Well done.

Judging Course

The online judging course is still available via the links on the website. I am currently updating it, but that isn't yet reflected on the website. If you are concerned about needing the tick in the box to compete, then by all means do the current course. If you don't need it, then hold off a while, and spend some spare time reading the current AAC and CIVA rules.

AOPA

The AAC is affiliated with AOPA (membership number 44954) so avail yourself of their services and support them when possible please.

Aerobatic 'Boot Camp'

Something new on the schedule, for those that wish to progress more quickly. Details are on the website under 'Events'. Places are limited to 6 participants, first come (paid up) first served. Funds raised go to the WAC Fund. The Trainers will be the Club Captain and other senior competitors in the Club. Come learn from our mistakes, rather than making the same ones yourself!
And now for a nightmare moment - I think the flying improved after the occurrence!

12/5/12

Queensland Championships

The next comp is the Queensland State Titles on the June long weekend. Escape the frost (maybe!) and head north to watts bridge. Details on the website here

Cards and Sticks

You should all have received your membrship cards along with a USB stick by now. Again, apologies for the delay. The USB containbs AAC and CIVA regs, Known sequences and other useful information - so don't just pitch it into the corner with all the other promotional crap you may receive, like some people I head of.
I'd recommend copying all your personal pilot and aircraft information needed for registration at a comp onto the USB, so it is all in the one place. Might be a good idea to put an identifying mark or two on yours as well.

Video

Found some good footage of last year's WAC, here's a sample: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qa1Nt9_d8bU&feature=g-all-s These were the guys and gals broadcasting the event with live vision on big screens at the airfield. You could sit in the hospitality tent, have an espresso, and stay up to date with the flying as well as ladies fashion. 18 videos in all, the clarity and close up detail is amazing

19/6/12

The results of the QLD State Comps are now available here.
Unfortunately weather did not permit a full programme but it was enough to give us a competition.You will have to wait for the newsletter to get more details ( I promise one will be out soon) However to wet your appetite go to the website to �check� out the scores.
If you click on the scores it will show you how the judges marked each manouvre.
Congratulations to Ben Brazier on winning the Tony Gordon Memorial Trophy by having the highest overall percentage in the competition with 80.94%

24/6/12

Gidday all, my apologies for being a bit slack on the emails of late. I have no excuses except work, family and life in general getting in the way. Also been working on Unlimited aerobatics, which takes a bit of focus.
Beaut flying weather ever since the Queensland Champs weekend! Hope you are all taking advantage of it. I went up to Watts Bridge and we managed to fly about half the competition flights before low cloud and passing showers put a stop to the fun. An excellent turnout of 19 pilots in all categories, including four Unlimited, which is the first time in a while. Two first-time competitors also, from Victoria so super keen, which is great to see. This all bodes well for the sport. Results are up on the QLD Chapter website, and should be re-posted on the AAC 'site soon. QLD Results Well done to all who attended, flew, helped, cooked, cleaned, un-bogged vehicles etc.
The YakWACs are on at present. This is a link, http://www.wayakc2012.mfavs.ru/ but I hope your Russian is better than mine! They also have a FB page I believe. Also, at last year's CIVA meeting a proposal was passed to include an Intermediate competition with the YakWACs in future, at the organiser's discretion. The Intermediates would fly the same sequences and mix it with the Yaks. This has implications for us, as next year we should/could use the CIVA Yak-52 Q as the Intermediate Known and the CIVA approved Yak-52 Unknown figures. This would provide another international contest opportunity for our up and coming pilots. Text reproduced below:
The Boot Camp scheduled for 31 Aug - 7 Sep will now be held partially at Yarrawonga and Tocumwal. At least three slots (of six only) are spoken for, so if you intend partaking please book now via the website.
Also at Temora Fri 28 Sep - Mon 1 Oct are the NSW Championships. Keep an eye on the website for the entry details.
WA Chapter - yet another State Championship to add to the calendar! If only I had more than 63L of fuel......and more spare time! To be held at Murrayfield south of Perth 7-9 Sep 2012. The WA Chapter is on the lookout for a couple of experienced helpers to guide them through the weekend, so if you can spare the time let me know or get in touch with them direct. We have a small budget to assist with expenses.
Last but not least, the 2012 Australian Aerobatic Championships at Tocumwal 24-28 Oct. Organisation is in hand. Due to the large field expected, expect some programming changes from what you may be used to - please read the comp information thoroughly when it gets published and make your plans accordingly.
Safety - if you haven't heard already, Richard Wiltshire lost his canopy of his new MXS in-flight about a month ago. Luckily he landed without injury or further damage to the aircraft. It could easily have been catastrophic, as several aerobatic fatalities have occurred this way in the past. What can you do? I know I've had a good look at my canopy latching system, and a helmet with visor would be a good thing in that situation. A secondary safety catch may also be doable on some aircraft. Give it some thought.
fly safe.

8/7/12

The Yak-52 World champs have been and the final results are here. Surprise, surprise, Russia 1st, 2nd and 3rd as well as the Team trophy! Closely followed by Lithuania, Ukraine......
Next up is the WAAC starting in Hngary on the 26th July. You can follow it here

For Sale and Wanted

I've had people contact me to put items on the website for sale. Until we get that working again, here is a shortlist:
Extra 330SC, Germany 240k Euro, contact me for contact details. O-360-A3A solid crank engines x 2, 1685hrs to run, $17500 ea.
IO-360-D1A, Complete rebuild with all new components including pistons ,rings ,bearings, oil pump gears ,Light weight starter ,Light weight alternator ,Overhauled mags ,Large induction pipes ,Balanced ,Precision fuel injection .Set up for constant speed, $20000 ono,Paul 0414677971

2013 Australian Aerobatic Championships

May seem like I'm jumping the gun a bit, but for the Chapters to consider is whether they would like to host the 2013 Nationals. If so, 'bids' should be lodged with the AAC Committee by end of September so we can make an announcement at this year's competition.

Judges Log Sheets

What are these you ask? Have a look at Appendix 6 of the AAC Regs (on the USB stick). All members should maintain a log of where and when they judge. Along with the JHSC and CJ recommendations, these are used as a basis to upgrade a Judge to State and National standard. We will have the updated JHSC available soon, in the meantime test your memory and update your your log sheet, and browse through the Judging Criteria to help fill those long winter nights. Thanks to those Chapters and others that have been holding judging seminars etc. recently.
Finally...

22/7/12

The Championnats de France Monoplaces (aka French Nationals) were held back in June. Olivier Masurel and Aude Lemordant continued their form from the 2011 WAC. See French Nationals Report and French Results
The Brits also attempted to have their Senior Nationals (Advanced and Unlimited) at the end of May, but were washed out. They are currently attempting to re-schedule I gather, but weather has halted subsequent comps also.
The German Nationals have also been held, having trouble finding full results, butMartin Sonka from the Czech republic won, and then he backed it up with a win at the Czech Nationals as well! Petr Kopfstein, also from the Czech Republic, was not far behind.
I'm looking forward to the European Championhsips in Slovakia 1-9 Sep. EAC
Also happenning very soon are the Advanced World Championships in Hungary, 26th July-5 August. A big field, see WAAC
You can follow the USA team blog here. The poms have a FB page.

2013 AAC Rules and Sequences

Please consider any amendments you may wish to be made in our Rules, whether due to errors discovered through the year, or general improvements. Pass these to your local Chapter committee or the AAC Club Captain for consideration by the Rules sub-committee later this year. Same for Graduate/Sportsman/Intermediate Known sequences - if there is something you would like to fly next year, then draw it up and pass it on! If we could have these no later than October that would be nice.
keep it up,

Grant

1/8/12

2012 Australian Aerobatic Championships

Preparations are continuing for the competition at Tocumwal. The entry details will be on the website soon. Registration and Official Practice will be on Tuesday 23 Oct with competition flights starting on Wednesday 24 Oct. The Presentation dinner will be Sunday night, 28 Oct. The AAC is not making bulk accommodation bookings due to the addditional workload and confusion, so start making your plans early if you intend participating.
'http://www.toconthemurray.com.au/TocAccomm.htm

2013 Competition Calendar

Dates confirmed thus far are: Vic Champs 6-10 March, SA Champs 12-14 April, QLD Champs 26-28 July, WA Champs 8-9 Sep, NSW TBC, AAC Champs 30Oct-4Nov (TBC) and the WAC in the USA 9-20 Oct 2013.

AAC Tax Status

I've had a couple of people ask about our status for donation purposes. Presently the AAC is registered as a Compant Ltd. with an ACN and approval to not quote the 'Ltd' in our name. We do not have a TFN or ABN, and are not registered for GST. Due to our low turnover we are classed as a Small Company Limited by Guarantee (SCLG), and as of our 2012 AGM we no longer have to lodge returns with ASIC. Initial investigation shows we would not qualify as a Tax Deductible Gift Recipient organisation.

Obituaries

Sadly, two very accomplished men passed away in the last week.
Dick Nell of Goulbourn. Anyone who saw him fly his Stampe would remember him, he certainly impressed me.
'http://www.goulburnpost.com.au/story/139759/free-as-a-bird-in-lifes-adventure/
>

and Geoge Markey also. He was a member of the AAC in the 1980's. An innovative thinker, he designed and built the Markey Ultrabat lightweight aerobatic aircraft at that time.

WAAC

Underway as we speak in Nieh.......................y, Hungary. The first with no aircraft restrictions.
Stay safe.

2/8/12

South Oz training Weekend 18-19th August

SA is holding a training weekend 18-19th August and all are invited. Chris Sperou will be assisting, and if any other exerienced members can make it to provide advice that would be appreciated. Contact myself or Dave Foord.

JHSC

The 2012 JHSC is now functional. Follow the links under 'INFO - Judging'. Let me know of any errors (need I ask!). Due to the number of changes and time since the last refresher, I ask that all judges re-do the quiz. Open book, no time limit.
Also, as you would be aware Fay Pilkington has been ill in recent times and was admitted to hospital recently. On behalf of the AAC I wish David and his family the best at a difficult time.

26/8/12

2012 Australian Aerobatic Championships

The entry forms and details for the comp are now on the website for download. Payment via the webstore, CC or EFT. Please read and note the schedule and programme, particularly Advanced and Unlimited pilots. The presentation dinner will be on the Saturday night - apologies for my earlier email stating Sunday.

2012 European Championships

Starting in about a week in Dubnica, Slovakia. I imagine it will be a hotly contested event and worth monitoting from afar. http://www.eac2012.sk/

2012 WAAC/AWAC/Whatever

Those who subscribe to the US-based acro exploder would know what I mean! Regardless, it was a great contest with a full programme flown and a huge field. Full results, sequences and other info is here.

2012 Judges Home Study Course

If you haven't, you should! http://www.aerobaticsaustralia.com.au/judging.php

Boot Camp

Our inaugaural boot camp will be kicking off next Friday at Yarrawonga. 5am kit inspections and depth-charges for breakfast. I'll let you know how it goes!

2012 US Nationals

Held late September at the venue for next year's WAC in Texas, Two of our members, Paul Bennett and Ben Brazier are planning to compete. A great way to gain experience - good luck all. http://www.iac.org/calendar/nationals.html

27/8/12

This message from Mike Heuer, President of the FIA Aerobatics Commission (CIVA):


Dear Delegates:
Thanks to Manfred Echter, Lars Lehmann, Kari Kemppi, and others, we have a very nice set of photos of the WGAC/WAGAC in Dubnica at the following link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/airsports_fai/sets/72157631174367560/
Faustine Carrera creates the photo "sets" for us at FAI's Flicker account and all of the Championships will have photos stored there. Of course, since FAI does not have its own staff photographer to send to Championships, we are heavily dependent on people attending the events to send them to us. I can post them to Flickr as can Faustine, so be sure to send what you have.
Enjoy the photos.
Best regards,
Mike Heuer

5/9/12

We have classifieds on the website - have a look what's on offer here.

2012 EAC

Flat out in Dubnica. onto the 2nd unknown already. 'http://www.civa-results.com/2012/EAC_2012/indexpage.htm

Boot Camp

Running well, participants making very visible improvements in their flying.

NSW Champs

Anyone out there interested in helping out at Temora the end of the month. We need a Contest Secreatary to help register pilots, sort paperwork and assist DCom with score entry. Contact me please.

17/9/12

 

Think While You're A Head 

 Busy times, NSW and Australian Championhips racing up on us. Due to the happy situation that many experienced members have serviceable aircraft this year, we are limited with expertise on the ground to run these events. Not that the people who have (been) volunteered are less capable, but some will have less experience. For this reason I ask all participants to be considerate of the volunteers that run the events so you get to fly.
Get your entries in early, make sure your Free (if you are flying one) is correct and signed off by a Judge. Check your figure numbers are correct given the catalogue change this year. Make sure you have all your entry paperwork, licence , medical etc. together at the comp. Decreasing the workload on the ground staff is a priority of mine, so consider your actions and don't increase this workload needlessly. The CD/CJ and Jury should be able to look ahead to the next programme/next day, not get bogged down in past events.
The Contest Juries will be well manned, and a poor view will be taken of vexatious protests or distractions that interfere with the smooth running of the events.

Aircraft Available

Joel Haski of Red Baron has advised he is considering bringing an S-2A and/or Robin to Tocumwal if there is sufficient interest from those unable to locate an aircraft to fly. Contact him direct with your interest.
Think....press.....talk.

 23/9/12

NSW Championships

The NSW Chanmps are on next week, Fri-Sun, with a judging seminar Thursday night. The CD has advised he will accept late entries, and has a loafing Decathlon available for homeless pilots, so scratch together the shekels if you can and come for a fly at sunny Temora. Don't let the long range forecast put you off (the farmer in me wants it to rain).

AAC Regulations

These govern the way we operate, and have proven safe and effective in the past. Many of the answers to questions I get, and those heard at morning briefs, are covered in the Regs. I know we all just want to burn dinosaurs, but sometimes a quiet cuppa and a read can save both time, money and red faces in the long run. (Hint - they are on the AAC USB stick, along with other good gen).
Leading up to the Australian Championships, I'll try and cover various areas of our rules. I'll mainly focus on areas that have changed subtley (subtlely?) from previous versions. The first of these is 'Order of Flight'.
This is an anomaly I have never understood. The 'convention' and what we have been doing, is drawing lots each day for Entry through Intermediate categories, and reverse order of placings for Adv/Unl. Below is an excerpt from the previous edition of the rules, March 2010:

4.5. SEQUENCE OF FLIGHTS

Unlimited and Advanced

The sequence of competition flights for Programme Q and 4 will be determined by lot to be arranged by the Contest Director. Each competitor will draw his or her own lot.
In Programmes 1, 2, and 3, the official combined standings from the previous programme(s) will be used, in reverse order, to determine the order of flight except for the top 10 pilots. The top 10 pilots will draw for order of flight for each programme.

Intermediate, Sportsman, Graduate and Entry

The sequence of competition flights will be determined by lot to be arranged by the Contest Director. Each competitor will draw his or her own lot.
The sequence of flights may be altered by the Contest Jury if special circumstances require.
From the above, the top ten Adv/Unl pilots should draw lots each day to determine the order of flight. We always have less than ten Adv/Unl pilots, so we should have been drawing lots each day? Why did we always use the reverse order of placings regardless? No bother, in the 2012 edition of the rules we amended the text to match the reality of what we do, see below.

2.36 Order Of Flights

2.36.1 Unlimited and Advanced order of flight is determined as follows:
a) Programme Q and 4 will be determined by lot. Each competitor will draw his or her own lot.
b) Programmes 1, 2, and 3, the official combined standings from the previous programme(s) will be used, in reverse order, to determine the order of flight.
2.36.2 Intermediate, Sportsman, Graduate and Entry. The order of competition flights for Programme 1will be determined by lot. Each competitor will draw his or her own lot. Subsequent Programmes will use the official combined standings, in reverse order, to determine the order of flight.
2.36.3 The sequence of flights may be altered by the Contest Jury if special circumstances require.
Note though, that we also changed the method of determining order of flight for Entry through Intermediate categories. We now will use the reverse order of placing after the initial programme.
Why did we do this? Well, no one has ever been able to explain to me why we draw lots each day, so I'm not going to try. But I will explain the rationale for the change. Simply, to save time and allow better briefing of important operational things, like departure and arrival and radio procedures. These procedures are directly important for the smooth and safe flow of the competition. These topics weren't mentioned in earlier editions of the Rules, but we added them for 2012 due to their importance (see para 2.37 for a complete list).
Morning briefs often extend on into time better spent getting the judges out and the flying going. With your assitance, hopefully this change will better allow that.
Relax, Trim and Enjoy!

2/10/12

Ben in USA

Ben Brazier did a fine job at the recent US Nationals finishing 10th with 77.3% in Intermediate. Congratulations Ben, I'm sure the experience will be an asset in the future.

NSW Championships

The NSW Champs were held last weekend under mostly cloudy skies and with significant wind at Temora! We had 15 competitors Graduate-Unlimited, a bit smaller than expected but I suspect the forecast weather kept a few people away. We did get all the Programmes flown around the delays. There are pics etc on FB, and the AAC website has the results, except Sportsman, which we are still working on due to a software problem. Consequently we have not yet announced the Team or Highest Overall Percentage award. We did award the Bryscen Teape-Davis Best and Fairest trophy to Darrell Whittaker - congrats Darrel, worthy recognition by your peers.
Once again Temora Council and Aero Club were great hosts. Special thanks to Jeremy, DCom, David Pilkington, Yves and Matt for doing all the jobs that need to be done at a comp, no matter how much prior planning you do.
It was also great to see everyone stepping up to the crease to judge, and CJ, categories higher than they had previously in many cases. Excellent experience to get, and handled very well I thought. Pat yourselves on the back!
which brings me to.......
Prior to the Australian Championships in a few weeks please take the time to re-read the AAC Rules, and CIVA Section 6 if appropriate, and complete the JHSC (Intermediate and above, but it's never too early). Then review your Judges' Log Sheet and update it with all relevant experience please.
If you intend attending the Championships, as a competitor or not, please let Jeremy, Dave Clemence or myself know ASAP, so we know who will be around to do what. Competitors should certainly have their entries in by now, if not, get on it please.
that'll do for now

 7/10/12

NSW Results

DCom fixed the bugs, full NSW Champs results are now on the website.
Sportsman was won by Darrel Whittaker 77.1% closely followed by Cass Moeller 76.9% and Pete George 72.2%. Well flown all.
Highest percentage Overall was.......Tony Wilson, Graduate, with 79.8%, edging out Darrel. The Team Trophy went to NSW with 15 points to Victoria's 13.

2012 Australian Championships

I heard a rumour that very few entries had been received and paid for yet...........please put your entries in sooner rather than later to assist in planning.

Judging

We ran a quick judging seminar prior to the NSW Champs, and I was surprised that many people had not found the excellent British judging tutorial on the BAeA website here. Simply put, there is little point us attempting to reproduce something that has already been very well done. Have a read to refresh yourself prior to your next critique or judging session. Also, a handy cheat sheet on the standard downgrades is here.

Changed Competition Workcycle

Continuing with the aim of easing the workload of contest officials, and making the comp experience more enjoyable for all, the following was included in the 2012 AAC Regulations:
2.29 Publishing of Results
2.29.1 Raw score checksheets IAW 2.28.1 will be made available to contestants for checking immediately after the raw scores have been entered into the CIVA approved software program. The Contest Director will post the Fair Play processed official & final scores for the programme just flown as soon as practicable after the protest period has lapsed (i.e. three hours after the last competitor has collected their raw score checksheets).
2.29.2 Results should not be held back from publication in order to create a surprise or other form of tension.
2.30 Certification of Final Scores
2.30.1 The CIVA Fair Play System is to be used, as per FAI Sporting Code Section 6.
2.30.2 The Contest Director and Chief Judge (or CJ for the category in question) will check that all pilots have received their raw score checksheets and that the protest period has lapsed. Following this review, the Contest Director and Chief Judge will certify the FPS processed scores as final by affixing their signatures to same.
This is pretty much a straight cut-and-paste from the British regs, and reflects what happens at world-level contests. Simply put, the responsibility for checking data-entry errors falls back on the pilot, and so relieves the CJ of laboriously checking every score has been entered correctly. It is in the pilot's interest to do this, so I am sure it will be done assiduously!
Typo errors will be simply corrected, with no protest needed, as happenned with us at the WAC last year on a couple of occasions. There is, however, more responsibility on the CJ of each category to make sure his master Form A is completed correctly with regard to CHZs and any penalties that were confirmed on the judging line (highs, lows, low-lows, outs, faulty wing rocks/safeties etc).
Once the 3 hr protest period has passed, the scores are locked and the FPS does its thing. Final scores for the flight in question are available then, not at the end of the day or late evening. Why this way? Because it reduces the workload on officials and allows them to plan for the upcoming activities, not get bogged down doing menial tasks concerned with past events. Any protests are advised earlier, rather than after scores are released at 8:30pm for example, with the 3hr protest period yet to run.
Also, and most importantly, by the end of a comp everyone, including officials, are getting tired due to days judging in the sun, flying hard, disrupted sleep and eating patterns, dehydration. And this is when the most difficult Unknown flights are being flown. I see it as a high-risk time and a definite flying safety hazard. Shortening the competition day and having people better rested must improve the situation.
do it safely.

 15/10/12

Not many sleeps now (but maybe a few airborne nano-naps) before the 2012 Australian Aerobatic Championships!
We have 19 entries thus far, and hangar space is limited. Any latecomers are advised to bring a tie-down kit.
For those still re-working their Frees, we have uploaded the latest format blank sequence forms (with the positioning score column) onto the website. At a pinch you could use them to hand-draw your sequences. Also uploaded are blank Aresti visio forms in the latest format. If you have an older version of Aresti, you may be able to download these and get the new look cheap-cheap. No promises, I've been lost ever since the c> prompt disappeared.
PLEASE NOTE the figure numbers have altered this year to 4-digit groups - Olan does not give you these, and neither will older versions of Aresti. If you need help converting or re-drawing a sequnce contact me.
Below is a message from Mr. Contest Director:
All, With the Nationals only just around the corner I'd like to touch base with everyone who's planning on heading up early to practice.
Firstly, as much as possible, use the safety of the aerobatic box when you're practicing and make sure that there is someone on the ground looking out for you with a radio on hand should a conflict arise.
Secondly for the Unlimited pilots, CASA has approved flight below 500' AGL only for the duration of the competition (24th to 28th) so please keep practice above 500' AGL. I wouldn't imagine this would create major issues for anyone, however please call me to discuss if you can't comply.
Lastly, please be mindful of the Neighbours and avoid overflying any populated areas where possible. The fly neighbourly policy for Tocumwal Aerodrome can be downloaded from the AAC Website here. There will be copies available when you register, however please make yourself familiar with it before you arrive. Should noise or safety at the aerodrome become a major issue, then we may have to cut the competition short or find another location. This is every pilots responsibility and please be on the lookout for each other.
I will be arriving with Jodie in VH-SIS on Monday morning, and I look forward to seeing you all there.
Fly safe and have fun practicing. Jeremy Tickets for the Presentation dinner 7.30pm Saturday will be for sale at registration. $60 per head with limited wine and beer per table. Paul is bringing his karaoke machine. Along with the presentations, we will be having an auction of two shirts from the 2011 WAC signed by many of the competing pilots. One has the names of the top Aresti team members, the other the Freestyle competitiors. Money raised will go to the AAC WAC fund.
"It's all about the aero's" - Nick Baker, AAC#812

15/11/12

2012 Australian Aerobatic Championships

A very successful competition was held at Tocumwal with many willing helpers and support from the locals, in particular the Murray Border Flying Club, and The Gordon-Browns (and of course The Anglican Ladies, and their scones!). No noise complaints or other negatives were received, as far as I am aware.
Thanks again to all who did the legwork in the planning and lead up to the competition, and those that filled the active roles during the comp. If you peruse the results on the website, note the names of the officials also, and remember without them it's very hard to do much!
We had a field of 26 pilots, some new, some veterans. It was great to have a field of 4 in Unlimited and 6 in Advanced - a great sign for the sport in Australia. Al Kilpatrick continued his golden run and is the 2012 Australian Aerobatic Champion flying the mighty DR-107. Congratulations to all who participated, as it takes more than the winners to make a competition. Pat yourselves on the back for some great flying, and safe as well.

2013 AAC Calendar

The dates and locations for the 2013 season have been posted on the website front page. The NSW Chapter has committed to host the Nationals at Temora in November 2013. Check the dates, book your leave and rest up over the summer.

Rules

CIVA is holding their annual meeting now and the changes for 2013 will be notified soon. We will then incorporate relevant changes to the AAC Regulations. As part of the review process, any member can make submissions for rule changes or additions they think necessary. Write them up in a coherent form and submit them to the Club Captain or me by the end of November please.

Sequences

The Known/Q sequences for 2013 have already been announced, and they have been added to the website. Note that an FAI-sanctioned international Intermediate competition is being incorporated with the YakWACs in South Africa in 2013. Thus the Intemediate Known shown is actually the Yak-52 Known. Similarly the Yak-52 Free and Unknown rules would apply to Intermediate. These changes were highlighted to the Committee last year, but have not yet been ratified, but would seem a sensible thing to do I think.
As for rule changes, if you have a Known sequence design you would like to fly in 2013, draw it up and submit it to the Club Captain for vetting and approval by the Committee. If we don't receive any we will let Mal design one.......

Matt Hall Racing Scholarship

The inaugaural winner of this scholarship was Ben Brazier. This year, I am pleased to announce that Adrian van der Sluys will benefit from the award. Adrian has pedalled his Pitts all over and performed consistently and well. His progress is a testament to his dedication and thoroughness of preparation, and only the wily John Lee prevented Adrian from taking gold in Intermediate at Tocumwal. Congrats Adrian, I'm sure you will make the most of it.
ciao,

 8/12/12

Australian Teams 2013

It was my intention to announce those who had qualified as an Australian Team Member at the Presentation dinner, but I didn't have all the data at that time. Per Appendix 7 of our rules, I am pleased to announce the following Team members for 2013:
Advanced
Greg McConnell
Brad Mulcahy
Dave Clemence

Unlimited
Alan Kilpatrick
Paul Bennet
Richard Wiltshire
Rob Noonan
Paul Andronicou
Grant Piper

We are expecting to send an Unlimited Team of six to the WAC in Texas in October 2013 if everyone takes up the offer. This would have been a full men's team in previous years, but as of 2013 up to eight of one gender are permitted on a Team. This is a very positive thing for our club and sport, as the experience gained will be invaluable in subsequent years.
For Advanced, the European Advanced Championships will be on in Poland in August. This would be a great experience for anyone who can do it, and we do have a few contacts in Europe now that can assist in sourcing aircraft.

2013 Sequences

The 2013 Known and Q sequences are now on the website here. Enjoy!
Note that the Intermediate Known is now the same as the CIVA Yak-52 Known, and for 2013 we will fly Intermediate in accordance with the CIVA Yak-52 rules. This will mean new Free and Unknown sequence rules also. The reason for this change is that CIVA is combining an Intermediate Championship competition with the Yak-52 World Championship, flown to the same rules. We thought it sensible to align to give our pilots another International competition opportunity. The next YakWAC will be held in South Africa in 2014.
Intermediate pilots will need to become familiar with the relevant portions of CIVA Section 6 and design a new Free for 2013. Total Free K is less, but average figure K close to the same. Permitted Unknown figures will also change, but they are all listed in Section 6 so have a look and start practising them so you aren't surprised later on! Some are more difficult than what you may have been used to, while some are easier.

Merchandise

The new T-shirts and hats on sale at the Nationals are now available via the website. The perfect gift for that 'difficult-to-buy-for' person! Order now from the webstore in time for Xmas.

2013 AGM

The date for the 2013 AGM has not yet been set, but in the meantime please consider nominating for a committee position if you wish to play an active role in the progress of the Club.
Thankyou to all who served on the Committees about the country, and all those others that put their hands up to make it happen in 2012. It has been a very successful year with two new state competitons being held and good numbers at all the comps, all conducted without incident. I haven't tallied up the number of flights launched, but I'm sure it would be well ahead of the average. Additionally we held our first 'Boot Camp', which was well recieved and we plan more in 2013. We continued to update our documentation and JHSC - not without problems but we will keep working on it.
Fly safe and have a good xmas.