It is with great sadness that we advise that Max Hedt, from the Horsham Flying Club, passed away on Sunday evening, 30th November, 2025.
Max was the last surviving original member of the Wimmera Soaring Club, which later became the Horsham Flying Club. His contribution to the club, to the Horsham airfield, and to the Horsham Week gliding competition cannot be overstated. Max was a central figure in the development of gliding in the Wimmera and is remembered through numerous awards and trophies that proudly carry his name.
The Max Hedt Trophy history - Tommy Thompson (father of Jeremy Thompson), and several others founded the Wimmera Soaring Club in 1963. Later that year, the club received its first glider, a Slingsby T31 tandem tutor. Their first competition took place in Dooen during Easter 1966.
Max had read a book titled "8 Days at Angers" (France), which inspired the Club to organize an 8-day competition. Considering the conditions, the ideal timing for the event appeared to be early February rather than Easter. Consequently, the first Horsham Week took place in 1967 at Dooen. Eight pilots competed, including David Wilson, a dedicated Horsham Week meteorologist who participated nearly every year, flying a Boomerang. Tony Tabart also took part, flying his Bocian; Tony competed in just about every Horsham Week. Alan Patching was another participant in the event.
In 1967, the Wimmera Soaring Club was granted permission to establish itself at Horsham airfield, and the hangar was relocated there. The first flight from Horsham took place in October 1967. Additionally, the first Horsham Week at this location, which was the second Horsham Week overall, was held in February 1968.
Gliding VicTas thanks Max for his amazing contribution to gliding in Victoria and sends its sincere condolences to Max’s family and friends at this very sad time.
Fly high, fly fast, Max.....
Authors: Ian Grant, Chris Thorpe
