Virtual Soaring in 2025!
Picture this: A pilot (qualified or aspiring), soaring through the skies over Australia or Europe – no hangar, no towplane, just a computer, some affordable controls and Condor 3. Welcome to the world of Virtual Soaring Grand Prix Racing, where cutting-edge technology meets the timeless allure of gliding. This isn’t just a game, it’s a proven evolution for our sport, and all at Gliding Australia are thrilled to be co-launching this Esport revolution in 2025.
Why does Virtual Soaring matter? Because it connects to those we’ve struggled to reach. Virtual soaring is immersive, affordable and available 24/7, making it accessible to everyone, everywhere.
Condor 3, the industry gold standard for gliding simulation, not only replicates the thrill of soaring but also hones essential skills. From control coordination to situational awareness, virtual soaring is more than an Esport. It’s also a training tool. It keeps our seasoned pilots sharp, provides an alternative to Netflix and the couch and, importantly, it provides an entry point for aspiring aviators of all ages.
It’s not a replacement for physical flight but a gateway, introducing a younger cohort to the sport in a format that they understand and embrace. Once they’re hooked on the virtual skies, we’ll invite them to trade their digital joysticks for the physical ones at our clubs across Australia.
Virtual soaring also appeals beyond youth. Imagine a retired aviator rekindling their passion for soaring, or a busy professional finally finding time after work and family for adventure. For existing glider pilots, it’s a way to refine skills and compete globally without the logistical challenges of travel. The potential audience over time is vast – individuals of all ages, Esports enthusiasts, and even the physically disabled who may have thought aviation was beyond their reach. Virtual soaring opens the skies to everyone, creating a diverse and inclusive community united by the love of flight.
As a 2025 strategic initiative, Gliding Australia with our virtual gliding partner, the APAC Virtual Soaring Grand Prix, will establish virtual soaring as a complimentary option to our physical sport, feeding into the FAI World Championships and securing a spot on the global Esports stage. Imagine virtual pilots from Australia competing internationally, proudly representing our community. With the International Olympic Committee exploring Esports and virtual soaring, this is our moment to lead. For those who are already members of Gliding Australia, as a value add, your existing membership will allow full access to the Virtual Soaring offer.
To be clear, this isn’t about replacing physical gliding, it’s about enhancing it. Virtual soaring is the start of a journey, not the end. It’s a way to reignite passion, build skills and introduce new people to the wonders of flight. For existing pilots, it’s an exciting new chapter. For those yet to discover gliding, it’s an open door. Stay tuned, more info to come, around the who, what and when!
Gliding Australia Updated Strategic Plan
An updated Gliding Australia Strategic Plan for 2025–2027 will soon be shared with you, our valued members and stakeholders. This plan represents a collaborative effort to ensure the growth, sustainability and excellence of our sport, reflecting our shared commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive and innovative future for gliding across Australia.
Purpose, Vision and Values – at the heart of the Strategic Plan are the Purpose, Vision, and Values that guide everything we do:
l Purpose – To develop and promote a safe and inclusive environment for experiencing the thrill of gliding, through advocating excellence, providing opportunities and upholding our responsibilities to the aviation community. We aim for lifelong enjoyment through development, training and leadership.
l Vision – To foster inclusive and welcoming gliding for all backgrounds through engagement with Members, Clubs, and Regional Associations, promoting good governance and compliance. We aim to safely engage people in an exciting adventure sport and expand our systems and programs to ensure broad participation and development. We strive to be a valued and respected Member of the Australian aviation community.
l Values – We are committed to nurturing a culture of respect, teamwork and integrity, while demonstrating leadership and unity. We prioritise inclusion, knowledge and volunteerism to ensure a safe and supportive environment. We strive for excellence in all our endeavours and actively contribute to our community.
Also, the Gliding Australia (GAus) Board recently confirmed its support for the acronym GAus to represent Gliding Australia in written documents. So, as you begin to see GAus appear more frequently, rest assured you’re now in the know about another acronym in our daily lexicon.
Finally, welcome to 2025 and all the adventure and challenges it offers.
Until next time… Stay safe, stay connected and continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in the world of gliding.
Ciao and warm regards,
Doug Flockhart
Chief Executive Officer