Craig Vinall
Chair Soaring Development Panel
The soaring season is now well underway, following the successful running of both the Club Class Nationals and the Queensland State Championships at Kingaroy last month.
Looking ahead, we have a full calendar of competition and coaching events. The Carter Cup in Western Australia will take place this month, followed by the Victorian, NSW and South Australian State Championships in December. Next, attention in January turns to the Multiclass Nationals at Leeton and Joey Glide at Benalla. In addition, a number of cross-country coaching events and Club Regattas are planned. Check the Gliding Australia Calendar for full details on all upcoming activities.
The Two Seater Nationals, originally scheduled for Kingaroy, will now be held at Narromine from 9–15 March. This event is an excellent opportunity to introduce newer cross-country pilots to both competitive and cross-country flying. Clubs are encouraged to bring their two-seat aircraft and participate in what promises to be a fun competition.
Appointees to SDP positions
Following a call for nominations, the following people have been appointed to the Soaring Development Panel:
- Chair of the Soaring Development Panel Craig Vinall
- Deputy Chair of the Soaring Development Panel Mike Durrant
- International Teams Manager Ray Stewart
- National Coaching Manager Peter Temple
- FAI Coordinator Tim Shirley
- IGC Representative Mandy Temple
- Chair of the NCC Lumpy Paterson
Also, two new Regional Soaring Development Managers have been appointed. Steve Trone takes over from Mike Durrant for Victoria and Tasmania and Karsten Bojesen replaces Arnold Geerlings for Western Australia. Welcome to both of you.
Thank you to all who nominated and I look forward to working with everyone over the next year.
Welcome to our new Junior Representative on the SDP
I am pleased to announce the creation of a new Junior Representative position on the SDP. Our inaugural appointee is Charlie Fortunaso McKay. With junior participation playing such a vital role in the future of our sport, we recognised the need for stronger representation and input into junior development, not only on an ongoing basis but especially in the lead-up to the Junior World Gliding Championships at Lake Keepit in 2028.
The Junior Representative on the SDP will also serve as the current Junior Representative on the Gliding Australia Board. The role will focus on strengthening the connection between the SDP and the junior gliding community, helping to foster and expand opportunities in sporting and cross-country flying for our junior members.
Charlie is a welcome addition to our panel, and I look forward to working closely with him in this important area.
Pilot Qualifications for Competitions
Members are reminded that the Australian Nationals Competition Rules specify the minimum pilot qualifications required to enter National competitions. These include
- Prior competition experience at a State Championship with at least 10 competitors
- A Silver Badge
- At least one 300km flight
- A GPC
While entry remains at the discretion of the Contest Director, pilots who do not meet these requirements are unlikely to be permitted to compete. Please review the Nationals Competition Rules for full, up-to-date details.
In addition, clubs and CFIs play an important role in ensuring pilots are properly prepared for competition flying. New competitors, in particular, should be confident flying in close proximity with other gliders in gaggles and be proficient in straight-in finishes, which are commonly used at competitions.
Meeting these standards not only supports safety but also helps ensure a positive and enjoyable first competition experience. If you feel you need further preparation or advice, please speak with your club coaches or experienced competition pilots - they will be more than happy to help.
