A Changing of the Guard at Waikerie – Mark Morgan’s Legacy and the Future of Glider Maintenance
After many years of dedicated service to the gliding community, Mark Morgan has retired and stepped back from full-time glider maintenance. This marks a significant transition, with Grant Windle taking over the workshop facilities. Morgy's Glider Works is now operating under the new name Riverland Sailplanes.
Mark has been an invaluable contributor to the gliding movement for decades, and his wealth of knowledge will be greatly missed. Countless pilots have benefited from his expertise in glider repair and maintenance, making his departure from active work a bittersweet moment for many. However, as with all things in life, change is inevitable, and Mark has certainly earned the chance to relax and enjoy this next chapter. We extend our best wishes to him in his well-deserved retirement.
Mark’s Journey in Glider Maintenance
Mark’s journey began in 1980 as a trainee pilot at Waikerie, where he developed an interest in aircraft maintenance. Under the guidance of Rob Webber and Bill Edwards later on, he gained valuable experience before joining the commercial operation at Waikerie. He initially worked on the flight line during the summer season while obtaining his basic airworthiness ratings.
His skills continued to develop under Rudi Gassmaier, and after obtaining both basic and major repair ratings, he began working full-time in the workshop alongside Mark Stanley. Visitors to the workshop will fondly remember the ‘Marks Bros’ sign that humorously declared "You screw ’em… We glue ’em!"
In 2004, following the closure of Waikerie’s commercial operation, Mark took a bold step and founded Morgy's Glider Works, an independent business separate from the Gliding Club. Over the next 20 years, the business flourished, establishing a reputation for excellence.
Mark’s dedication to craftsmanship led him to Germany, where he honed his skills in engine maintenance at manufacturers’ facilities. He also supported Australian pilots by crewing at international competitions. His passion for continuous learning, combined with his natural technical abilities, made him a walking encyclopedia of glider maintenance. His commitment to high-quality workmanship extended to glider finishing, leading him to install a spray booth at the club to perfect paint finishes.
The Future – Riverland Sailplanes
Last year, as word spread of Mark’s possible retirement, Grant Windle reached out to explore opportunities. After visiting Waikerie, Grant decided to take over the workshop, leading to the creation of Riverland Sailplanes (www.riverlandsailplanes.com.au).
Grant brings six years of experience from Maddog Composites in Queensland and was eager to take on the opportunity presented by Mark’s retirement. He began working alongside Mark in October 2024 and officially took over the business in December 2024.
While Mark has stepped back from ownership, he remains actively involved – mentoring Grant, assisting him in obtaining his major repair rating and guiding him through engine certifications. This invaluable transfer of knowledge ensures continuity in expertise and high standards of workmanship.
A Bright Future for Glider Maintenance at Waikerie
Grant has already demonstrated his skills, recently refinishing the undersurface of the Waikerie Gliding Club’s LS4 wings to an exceptional standard. He is currently undertaking repairs on our Discus, approaching the work with precision and professionalism.
With Grant at the helm we can be confident that glider maintenance at Waikerie remains in excellent hands. Now, more than ever, it’s important for us to support and encourage this changing of the guard.
