Merry Christmas!! - The Australian Piper Society

D E CE MB ER 2014
Pipernews
T H E N EW S L E T T E R O F
THE AUSTRALIAN PIPER SOCIETY INC
PO BOX 31 ROMA 4455
IN C 98802 92 N SW
Merry Christmas!!
Welcome to the December 2014
edition of the Piper News.
With somewhat of a “family” theme,
this newsletter is again packed with
Society goings on and useful tidbits.
Following a successful AGM in
Coffs Harbour, we welcome a new
APS Committee. Their profiles are
scattered over the pages so you can
get to know them. The committee
has a number of great events
planned for the coming year, so
there should be something for everyone coming up!
Rod’s Tech Report gives us a bit of
history of the Piper “Family” of aircraft. Did you know what the difference between a –180 and a –181
model was? Neither did I!
Within the pages you will also find a
bumper report from the recent
Burke and Wills Flyaway. Check the
calendar for next year’s flyaways
and book yourself in for a brilliant
trip!
We also have a great article about
Nicole O’Sullivan’s regular family
flying trip. It serves as a great reminder of the wider enjoyment our
hobby can give us.
Finally, a few tips from myself for
happier family flying.
Safe flying all and have a fantastic
Christmas!
Scott Lewis
Newsletter Editor
DISCLAIMER
Any advice contained in this newsletter has been prepared without taking into
account your specific circumstances, objectives, or needs. Before acting on any
advice given the Australian Piper Society Inc recommends that you consider
whether it is appropriate for your circumstances.
NEW
MEMBERS
President
Report
Michael Holcroft
Mildura, Vic
PA32RT-300
Firstly I would like to thank the entire committee of 2013/2014, as you may be well aware,
team work plays a very big role in any successful organisation, and the entire committee
have worked hard and jumped outside of their roles to assist where needed to make the
year a successful one for the society.
John Nader
Merriwa, NSW
2015 is lining up to be another brilliant year with your committee, along with some society
members, already putting together exciting fly away’s. Keep an eye on the website for
constant updates on events.
Stuart Porges
Borenore, NSW
Ben Rosmalen
Boulder, WA
PA28-160
TOTAL MEMBERS
118
We have 10+ members in Bendigo and as we are lucky enough to be able to work in with a
few flying clubs, including Bendigo Flying Club, being an extremely active club. This will
enable us to join forces with flying trips and events, encouraging like minded pilots and
their families to enjoy the flying and social activities together.
Course three of the PPP and another stage of the Partners Program is underway, so look
at the calendar and decide where you would like to do your annual proficiency and safety
update. Our Tech guru, Rod Shearer will be putting together some piper updates to be
discussed at each PPP, so stay current and enjoy the program.
Be a part of the team, let us know if your aero club or town would like to host a PPP or
weekend fly in. We would love to come and visit.
We welcome four new members to the club, Michael Holcroft, Stuart Porges, John Nader
and Ben Rosmalen.
I am looking forward to seeing you all at one of the many events throughout 2015
Until then, Safe Flying
Melissa Fisher
President
About Melissa
I have only been flying for a short 5 years, but have loved every minute of it, even the not
so good minutes.
I learnt to fly out of Moorabbin in “The KID” a 1968 PA28 180, such a good plane, and
have flown plenty of pipers since, and will continue to do so.
I am passionate about continual learning, flight safety and awareness, I was introduced to
the APS by way of joining the “Top End Fly Away” shortly after getting my PPL.
I am grateful for everyone I have had the pleasure of meeting and everything I have been
lucky enough to have learned or been involved in along the way.
Treasurer’s
Report
NEW
COMMITTEE
2014
2014 has been a very busy year for the APS with many events being undertaken including numerous fly aways, the inception of the “partners in flight’ program that runs in conjunction with
the very successful PPP (pilot proficiency program) and not to forget, the AGM.
As you will see by the attached financial statements, the money coming in and going out has
been categorised. This allows us to establish not only where member’s funds are going but also
if we are covering costs or overspending in certain areas.
This year Scott Lewis has taken on the Job as Newsletter editor and publisher, we must thank
Scott as we all know it is not an easy task. In turn Scott has sourced local providers for what he
needs to complete the newsletter from a blank page to the completed newsletter, fully delivered
to your mail box. Whilst doing this Scott has managed to produce the newsletter at a very reasonable cost. Thanks again Scott.
Over the past 18 months the APS committee have worked hard to give attendees of the PPP,
and in the last 8 months the Partners Program, as much for their money as possible. We try to
encourage all members to come along and enjoy the weekends and possibly leave with a little
more knowledge, confidence or at very least the feeling of a great social get together. We have
managed to do this by including meals, airport transfers and where possible a tour, not to mention your days theory course and a 1 hour flight in your own aircraft with Tony Smith or Colin
Burns, All for the nominal charge of $300.00 per attendee of the PPP and $150.00 per attendee
of the Partners Program. Unfortunately, this does not always cover costs, especially when poor
weather restricts member’s being able to attend. Saying that attendances have been good, so I
suggest that everyone take a weekend off and come and see what one is all about.
Adrian Basile
Vice President
Started flying at age 17 at
the Mid-Murray Flying Club
in Swan Hill.
Currently living in Bendigo
with wife and two sons aged
10 and 12 years.
Adrian has recently completed training in Conveyancing and is now persuing
that as a career.
Adrian maintains his interest
in aviation and is the current
President of the Bendigo
Flying Club.
CASA are in support of the PPP and the course safety orientation. Due to this we have been
given sponsorship from CASA for the PPP’s, thank you Leigh Barling and David Long for your
contributions in this matter. In turn the committee have decided to go ahead and get Tony and
Colin to write a “course 3”. This will offer more information in regards to not only flying techniques but Piper specific aircraft as well. We hope to be able to offer choices and alternatives
to the 1 hour flight, specifically when weather does not allow for some flying sequences. The
committee will keep you up to date as this unfolds throughout the coming year.
As usual income and cost are never running hand in hand so I have also included financial
statements for July 2013 – June 2014 and July 2014 – October 2014.
Financial breakdown:
We stated the 2013 – 2014 financial year with $27,971 overall bank accounts.
We ended the year with $38,260 including $1,960 in prepayments of PPP’s, $3,266 in overpayments for the flyaway (since refunded) and $4,370 of CASA funding.
The wash up of that leaves the bank balance at approx. $700 more than opening balance.
Flyaway: 1.7.13 – 30.6.14: Income of $3207 v cost of $19014. The costs were mainly related to
the Kimberley safari that was paid for in the previous financial year. The overall wash up here
was a refund to the attendees of the Kimberly safari and the Legends and Larrikins flyaway of
small overpayments and a zero cost to the society.
Flyaway: 1.7.14 – 31.10.14:
This was entire the Burke and Wills fly away, as you can see a zero cost to the society, the
members attending this flyaway made a small overpayment and in turn they all decided to donate that overpayment to the RFDS. A cheque was posted for $510.00
Irene Lawson
Treasurer, Membership and
Website.
Born as a baby boomer to
become a flying bean counter. Reaching goals with my
pilot partner Ian we have
been flying our Comanche
since 2003 to all corners of
Australia and overseas to
NZ, PNG, and many of the
pacific islands. We never
tire of the skies and the
friendships along the way.
NEW
COMMITTEE
Treasurer’s Report
Continued
AGM: 1.7.13 – 30.6.14: Income of $2990 v costs of $2717. A small surplus of $273.00
AGM: 1.7.14 – 31.10.14: Income of $1150 v costs of $500. AGM prepayments by members and a deposit paid for the venue.
Barry McCabe
Secretary
Barry has been involved
with the Piper Society for a
long time. Lets just say….
Forever. He flies a PA-28235 Pathfinder, his lovechild!
Barry is based in Roma,
Central Queensland where
he has had a career as a
Pharmacist.
PPP’s 1.7.13 – 30.6.14: Income $5440 plus CASA sponsorship $4370 total PPP income
$9810 v cost of $8531. We have continual roll overs of prepayments due to some members not being able to attend, generally due weather, and are left with a credit for the next
PPP. Our expenses included a payment of $1815 for the Bendigo PPP which was paid for
and held in the previous financial year, also a simulator cost for the first “partners in flight”
program. The cost to members for this program does not cover the cost to society. We
believe it is invaluable and want members to get involved and increase their awareness
and safety. Our overall position at the end of June was $3094 surplus, due to the CASA
sponsorships.
PPP’s 1.7.14 – 31.10.14: Income $3650 v costs $6171. This was the wash up of the Narromine event, which we experienced some really bad weather limiting numbers. The expenses also included the Partners in Flight course being written, which is owned by the society.
Membership and General: 1.7.13 – 30.6.14: Income of $10822 v costs $6924. We have a
surplus here that is used to subsidise the PPP’s. An APS donation to a worthy cause will
be discussed at the AGM.
Membership and General: 1.7.14 – 31.10.14: Income of $4696 v costs of $2976. Ongoing
costs to be paid, the wash up will show at the 30.6.14.
Explanations:
Thank you David Law for your donation and ongoing support
The public liability Insurance has been increased to keep in line with business and industry
expectations. We now carry a $20m public liability cover.
The year in its entirety was a busy year for the society. To keep progressing and being
able to offer the best to our members we need your feedback. If you are unable to attend
the AGM please forward all comments and ideas to your committee.
David Seddon
Committee Member—PPP
Based in Mildura, David
runs Oasis Auto Service,
caring for strange, four
wheeled, land-based vehicles.
He does manage to unstick himself from the
Earth, however, in his Turbo Arrow VH-LYA.
The society only maintains success with your support, so we look forward to seeing you all
attend at least one event per year!
Melissa Fisher
Outgoing APS Treasurer
AGM Wrap Up
14th - 17th November 2014
NEW
COMMITTEE
Friday 14th Nov 2014
Piper members with their wives, partners and friends arrived into Coffs Harbour at all
times of the day with the weather good, as forecast. Some made it in by jumping into
their cars or catching commercial flights to join in a weekend of fun and activities in
Coffs Harbour and the surrounding towns of Bellingen, Urunga and Raleigh.
After checking in at the Pacific Bay Novotel we
all caught up back at the Aeroclub for a “meet
and greet” followed by BBQ dinner. It is great
mixing in with the locals at any flying club and
Coffs Harbour was no different. Their large
clubrooms and outside eating area was a wonderful backdrop and set the stage for the
weekend. Friday night David encouraged air
traffic controller Chris Fox to pass on his experiences from inside the tower. Chris passed on
a few amusing episodes and challenging times
he had encountered whilst maintaining control
in his area.
Saturday 15th Nov 2014
Half of the group took the bus for a drive into Coffs and an early breakfast at the Urban Espresso Lounge whereas the late risers were able to enjoy breakfast at the resort. Meeting back at the Novotel we took the bus with all on board to the charming
town of Bellingen sitting in the heart of the valley on the banks of the Bellinger River.
By late morning we loaded back on the bus for a short scenic drive to Urunga on the
coast and The Ocean View Hotel for lunch. Our next stop was at a Raleigh Boutique
Winery for a sample of “Vinneys” quite unique Brandy Crème Liqueurs.
Getting back to the Novotel at around 3:30 allowed for time to freshen up a little before
meeting in the conference room for the Annual General Meeting. Special thanks went
out to the former committee followed by the election of a new committee after which
the newly elected committee all full of enthusiasm and ideas held their first committee
meeting with all members invited to join
in.
Dinner on Saturday was set as a Christmas fun night with much cheer. A challenge was set where each person was
asked to call upon their creative juices
and come up with a table decoration with
prizes were given for the best. On thinking back and although some of the decorations were good I suggest that nobody
should establish a stall at any craft market.
Sunday 16th Nov 2014
The morning came early for the eight going White Water Rafting on the Nymboida River. A full day and dare I say a wet ride for some. One very enthusiastic rider decided
to show off her talents of body surfing, leaving her raft behind.
Unfortunately ten others had to return home on the Sunday and started the day at a
local cafe for breakfast, leaving the remaining eight to enjoy themselves around the
beautiful area of Coffs Harbour.
On Monday morning most flew out and home whilst others took time out for a relaxed
flight , stopping off somewhere on their way.
Thanks to all on the committee who jointly put together another great weekend with
Piper minded people. Thank you for all that attended and from all accounts from the
feedback the weekend revellers had a fun time.
Irene Lawson
David Long
Committee—Forum
I started flying back in
1991 at Lakes Entrance. I
finally got my PPL in 2003
after flying gliders for many
years: highlights being six
hour flights, 500+km, up to
FL240!
Cath and I and the bank
now own a delightful, 40year-old Piper Archer I, VH
-UQK. Her age belies the
fact that she has got us
everywhere around Australia and over Bass Strait
multiple times. I am fortunate in being able to combine work and pleasure,
regularly flying around the
SE corner of Australia to
work as a Doctor in Emergency Departments.
Ned Gloster
Committee—Social
Most of us “know” Ned
from the article in the last
newsletter. If you didn’t
see it at the time, go back
for a great read.
Inspired by our PPP, Ned
became a commercial pilot, now based in Darwin. It
was only a matter of time
before the APS’s “creation”
became
a
committee
member!
The Legal
Stuff…..
Any advice contained in
the Tech Talkback article
is provided for general
information only. It does
not necessarily apply to
your specific aircraft or
take into account your
objectives
or
needs.
Before acting on any
advice
given,
the
Australian Piper Society
recommends that you
consider whether it is
appropriate
for
your
circumstances and seek
further advice from a
LAME familiar with your
aircraft.
Rod’s Version….
If you are an Aircraft owner
or pilot it is assumed that
you are a grown-up who
will realise that this advice
and comments are my own
opinion, and you will need
to
make
your
own
decisions regarding their
use.
About Rod
A career aircraft mechanic,
Rod began his career in
the Air Force at age 15.
After a career spanning
the East Coast of Australia
in the airlines, he settled
into his own business at
his Farm near Bendigo.
He has owned a Cherokee
140 since 1993, however
the usual pressures of life
have severely limited his
flying.
Rod has been an APS
member since inception
and took over the tech role
in 2013.
Tech
Talkback
Now that the hot weather is upon us it’s time to think of the comfort of your family.
Many early Cherokees are very hot to stifling when on the ground & not much better in
the air, until you get to a decent altitude. One way to counter this is to hold the door
open whilst taxying to get some airflow through the cabin. There is now a gas strut
available that will do this for you. It is called ‘The Door Steward’ & is approved by an
STC (Supplemental Type Certificate) for just about all PA28 & PA32. I’ve fitted several
and had rave reviews from the owners concerned. The strut also stops the hassle of
the door being blown around in the wind when the aircraft is parked. It will keep your
family happy.
Another method of achieving better ventilation is a ‘Kool Scoop Vent’ which is a scoop
that attaches to the vent window. It hinges out through this window & protrudes into
the airflow directing air into the cabin. I believe it is only for use on the ground though.
Have you ever wondered about the Piper family of aircraft? I’m talking mainly about
the Cherokee branch of the family tree, which is the PA28 & PA32 aircraft. The
Cherokee 140 is considered the base model (for the purpose of this brief overview). If
you get the opportunity to look in the cabin of a PA22 (Colt or Tri-Pacer) you will see a
few familiar items that carry over to the Cherokee. The Cherokee was designed to
have a minimum of parts (among other considerations) so they could compete on
price with the Cessnas at the time. This is the reason they have such a robust Main
Spar.
Cessna aircraft have a Spar assembly made up of many different stiffeners and caps,
all riveted together to provide the required strength. Your Cherokee has the aircraft
equivalent of a piece of railway line (albeit very light & strong). This is why the Spar
must be looked after, as if it gets corrosion in it, the whole thing generally requires
replacement. This spar is also very similar, if not the same, in the Cherokee
Stationwagon (Cherokee Six). The main difference that evolved, as we all know, is the
shape of the wing. The ‘Slab Wing’ or ‘Hershey Bar’ as they call it in the US, gave way
to the ‘Tapered Wing’. All Cherokees that have their model number end in a zero have
a Slab (140, 180 etc) whilst all those ending in a one have a tapered wing (161,181
etc).
Another obvious aspect (for those of you who haven’t been put to sleep yet) is the
name itself. North American Native peoples provided the names for most. Apaches,
Aztecs (that one is for you Scott), Cherokees, Comanches…. the list goes on. Then
they moved on to Cherokee Warrior, Cherokee Lance, Tomahawk etc. There was also
a brief dalliance before all this with Horses via the Colt, Pacer & Tri-pacer (a 3 legged
pony perhaps). Prior to this of course we had the Cub & before then was darkness.
A Short
Interlude...
I have had lots of members contacting me about where to source spare parts and
aircraft. I also get queries from prospective members looking to buy a used Piper. If
anybody has an aircraft for sale be sure and send me details so I can forward them
on. As for spare parts, yes, they can be priced out of all proportion. I recently had a
customer with an ‘Axe’, aka Tomahawk, wanting to replace his control stick universal
joint. The price came back at over $800, almost double the price for a similar part on
the Cherokee (which is still expensive in my opinion). Another member needed some
wingtip stiffeners, which are the thin aluminium strips that run along the inner edges of
the wingtips. These were quoted at around $500 for the set. So if you ever remove
anything from your aircraft or have a box of parts, treat them with respect! They may
be worth real dollars.
Another member asked about windscreens and windows. Windscreens (or
windshields in the US) are available from after-market suppliers and cost less than a
set of wingtip stiffeners. Check in the ‘Pipers’ magazine (that we get sent on the
email), the Aviation Trader etc. As for side windows, you can legally change them
yourself under ‘Pilot Maintenance’ privileges. They are made of Acrylic Plastic, which
goes under various brand names (Perspex, Lucite, Plexiglass) which can be made
locally.
There has been discussion about several CASA Airworthiness Bulletins. One was
about Gyro instruments and how they can be damaged when moving the aircraft after
shutdown. This is true so far as it goes. Be aware of it and you will be okay. It has
been reproduced on the next page for your information.
Another, concerned corrosion of the forward Flap Ribs (AWB-57-014). Again this is
not new but something to be aware of. Talk to your Engineer about all these things
(including the parts you need).
The issue of Control Cables has gone quiet with CASA at the moment. Remember
that the NPRM was exactly that, a consultation. There is not yet a mandatory
requirement to replace your cables. There is an AWB but it is only a recommendation.
There is a good AWB regarding maintenance of your Magnetos. The take home
message from this is to make sure the 500 Hour Inspection is carried out. Even if you
are running your engine past TBO (as you quite legally can in Private ops) do not over
-run your Mags.
Rod Shearer
A pilot has engine trouble
and lands in a field.
As he walks around the
plane to check out the
problem, he hears a voice
behind him say, "You have
a clogged fuel line."
Looking around, he sees
no one, except a cow.
Startled out of his wits, he
runs across the field to the
farmer's
house
and
pounds on the door. When
the farmer appears at the
door, the out-of-breath
pilot stammers that his
cow has just talked--and
even tried to explain what
was wrong with the airplane.
The farmer drawled, "Was
it a brown cow?"
"Yes."
"Did it have a white patch
on its forehead?"
"Yes, yes, that's the one."
"OK, that's Flossie. Don't
pay no attention to her.
She doesn't know nothin'
about airplanes."
EYES UP!!
AIRWORTHINESS BULLETIN
Gyroscopic Instrument Reliability
AWB 31-008 Issue :1
Date: 01 August 2014
Word has it that a member
recently landed at Cairns
airport in his piper aircraft.
Nothing too strange about
that you would say but later
the pilot received a request
for a landing fee of $385.00
After making a call the piper
pilot was told the excessive
charge was due to landing
during a busy period
between 10am and 2pm.
After a search through
ERSA failing to find a
reference to any landing
fees at Cairns, a call was
made and some wisdom
imparted concerning duty of
disclosure.
This
was
followed up with a letter
protesting the charges.
To date there has been no
word from Cairns. Parking
charges have been paid.
We are telling this as a
warning
to
others
considering
landing
at
Cairns.
Editor Comments…..
An internet search yielded
the current fees for NonRPT aircraft at Cairns. It can
be found at:
http://bit.ly/1AeHKTL
Buried at the end of the
General Aviation section is
an easily missed surcharge.
We would be keen to hear
from members of any other
locations that charge so
horrifically.
Excerpt…..
Gyroscope failures can be directly related to bearing failure caused by the instrument
ingesting dirty air, and/or impact damage to the sensitive gyro rotor and gimbal
bearings. Inadequate vacuum or pressure system air filtration causes rapid bearing
wear. Shock or impact damage can be inflicted during aircraft ground handling, or by
rough or improper handling at any time during installation, storage and shipping.
Gyro Handling – aircraft on the ground
Many light aircraft are equipped with air-driven gyros for the artificial horizon (AH) and
directional gyro (DG) instruments. When the engine is shut down, the engine-driven
vacuum/pressure pump which powers these gyro instruments also stops operating.
The gyro not only loses motive power but the source of the gyro stabilizing forces (via
precession) as well.
This leaves the gyros in a high
energy state (spinning at around
20,000 RPM) without the gentle gyro
stabilizing forces that the vacuum/
pressure source provided. If the
gyros are still spinning during the
typical sharp 90° turn and push-back
into the hangar (a violent manoeuvre
which is well outside the capability of
any gyro stabilizing device) an
uncaged gyro—even halfway through
the spin-down period—is very liable
to ‘topple’ (spill) and have more than
enough
energy
to
slam the
mechanism against the gyro gimbal
limit stops, shock damage the gyro and gimbal bearings and cause the gyro to enter a
condition known as gimbal lock where the AH horizon bar goes rapidly and
repetitively to extreme attitude indications and the DG heading display spins.
Even with the more recent gyro gimbal designs in electrically powered gyros, the gyro
can enter a gimbal lock condition, where the gyro ‘tumbles’and forces the gimbals to
spin at high speed (being energised by the gyro) exceeding the gimbal bearing design
limits damaging the bearings. Damaged gyro and gimbal bearings will result in false
indications and unanticipated instrument failure.
Gyro instruments which have had the power removed should be left for the amount of
time specified in the aircraft data—usually about 15 to 20 minutes, to spin-down and
stop before the ground handling the aircraft. Use this period to listen to the gyro
instruments as they wind down. If the instrument is vibrating (lightly touch the
instrument glass) orif growling or grinding noises are heard, and/or if an air-driven
instrument stops relatively quickly, have the instrument checked by appropriately
qualified maintenance personnel.
Some electrically driven gyro instruments do slow down quickly, but do so smoothly
and quietly when serviceable.
There’s
nothing
quite like a
DAME
The Christmas Season is one that traditionally sees a lot of people travelling, be it for
family events, holidays or simply because the weather is so nice! Sometimes as pilots
it is easy to lose sight of the fact that sometimes our family members aren’t quite as
keen flyers as we may be! With that in mind, I’ll share a few tips for flying with family.
Travelling with Spouses
If you are lucky enough to have a spouse who is also a keen flyer, then it is likely the
biggest argument will be over who gets to be Pilot-in-Command. Indeed, the results of
an AOPA survey stated “Two-pilot couples—there were six who responded—ranged
from those who enjoy flying together to those who wish for two airplanes so they can
fly apart.”
If not, however, it is essential to ensure that they are comfortable flying with you, and
communication is the key. Particularly in situations where your partner may not be
particularly aviation savvy, what we consider routine may seem utterly terrifying! Think
of the first time we landed on a parallel runway…. That other plane seemed close
enough to touch!! I know from my own experience that my partner’s scariest moments
and ones where I have either neglected to warn her of what was about to happen or
not had the chance to. Teach them well enough and they may just get the bug themselves!!
Travelling with Children
Children also need to develop a comfortable familiarity with the aviation environment. This is best done in
a stepwise manner, particularly with young children.
Start with sitting in the plane with nothing running and
progress to taxiing if all is well. Once comfortable with
the plane and the noise, try a few circuits. If all remains well, you are good to go! There are two things
I have learnt from having small children in planes,
however….. Firstly aircraft are great sleep inducers.
Secondly, you need to know every potential shortnotice toilet stop along your route!!
Hearing protection is extremely important for children and I am very strict on headset
use in my aircraft. Luckily there are boys and girls style youth headsets which fit pretty
well from only a few years of age. Occasionally a little “blinging” is required to improve
acceptance!! Also keep in mind the pressure changes with ascents and descents. A
longer, slower descent (around 400—500 feet per minute) reduces the potential for ar
pain and barotrauma than the usual arrival-with-style plunge!
Travelling with Pets
Its not really a family holiday without the dog, is it?! Pets can be quite good travellers
and, most of the time, can be conditioned to flying in the exact same way as children.
Regulations that require crates for travelling pets do not apply to private operations,
however in most cases this is still the best option. The next best, and what I would
consider to be the minimum, is a harness that can be attached to the seatbelt. In both
cases, place a towel underneath them as their bladders can be as fickle as a child’s!!
Scott Lewis
PROFILE
Based in Wudinna, South
Australia, for almost 7 years
Scott is a country GP. Having developed a taste for
flying while working as a
medical student in Wudinna
(which is a whole story in
itself) he started flying gliders and processed to GA
upon completion of university. He has also trained in
Obstetrics, Anaesthesia and
Aviation Medicine. He is a
CASA DAME and happy to
do medicals for anyone who
flys in!
Scott now owns two aircraft,
a Van’s RV-6A VH-AFG and
a Piper Aztec VH-JSB, the
subject of an article in a
previous newsletter regarding its extensive panel upgrade.
Scott is lucky enough to be
able to combine work with
flying, but also does enough
private and leisure flying to
rack up an impressive number of hours (about 35 per
month).
The
Expeditioners
Diary of the Burke and
Wills Flyaway
14th-19th September 2014
Barry and Susan McCabe
PA-28-235 VH-SEP
David and Janet Roberts
PA-28-140 VH-MTW
Graham and Tina Bell
PA-28-181 VH-BVN
Lloyd and Dianne
Shepherd
PA-22-160 VH-ZSG
Michael Walker and
Michelle Tither
PA-28R-200 VH-CVZ
David and Vicki Ind
PA-32R-301T VH-IDN
David and Cath Long
PA-28-180 VH-UQK
Douglas and Marlene
Johnson
PA-32R-300 VH-MSX
14th September – Mungo Lake
Muster was the 14th September at Mungo Lake. A
Mungo National Park tour was the highlight of the day
with the very special tour guides – Paakantji men,
cousins Ernest Smith (the younger) and Ernest Smith
(the elder). We all experienced a sense of awe as we
were told the story of Mungo Man and Mungo Lady and
exposed to environments where artefacts have been
aged as 32,000 to 42,000 years. Sitting on the sandhills
being serenaded by Ernest Smith the younger was a
perfect finale.
The day was capped by a group dinner of good
company and some insights by el President Ind into the
characters (flawed and otherwise) of Burke and Wills –
insights which gave some context to the doomed nature of the mission they undertook
in the 19th Century.
Another piece of information shared at this inaugural dinner of the tour was the copilots were to be challenged on a daily basis with departure calls – a Biggles hat was
the prize for the most challenged co-pilot each day.
15th September – Menindee, Broken Hill, Rawnsley Park Station
This morning we were up into the clear blue skies early to reach Menindee by 8:30
where we were greeted by Adam Blair, the assistant principal of the local public
school. The principal had generously offered to host our visit with a bus tour around
the sights of Menindee. 100 kms later we had seen the natural and manmade lakes
and waterways, the weirs and regulators and had a coffee at Adam’s favourite coffee
shop. Menindee Public School has 100 pupils from kindergarten to year 12 – 60% of
whom are indigenous.
By 1p.m we were refuelling in Broken
Hill in preparation for our flight to
Rawnsley Park Station. Navigating our
way through the valley, we were
greeted by a little bit of heaven Rawnsley Park Station in the Flinders
Ranges.
Another dinner of fun and camaraderie
at the Woolshed Restaurant; good
food and a humble president taking
the prize of the Biggles hat for the
most awkward departure call of the
day – he just wanted to wear it!
16th September – Balcanoona (Arkaroola Wilderness
Sanctuary)
We woke up to the glorious serenity of the Flinders
Ranges at Rawnsley Part Station – then looked out to
see fog through the valley and low cloud! However,
the sun burned it off early and we were all away over
the mountains to Balcancoona by 11 to make our
rendezvous at Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary for the
ridge top tour.
A spectacular, if challenging, tour took us to the top of
the ridge (3,100 ft) where 360 degree of splendid views and ancient spectacle of rock
formation awaited us – as did afternoon tea of tea and lamingtons! The fun was
enhanced by the truck getting a flat tyre; this called the organisational skills of our
group into play! In no time we were heading back to dinner – sighting yellow footed
rock wallabies, birds and much native flora along the way. The passion and
enthusiasm for, and knowledge of, the environment exhibited by the management and
staff of Arkaroola was outstanding.
Needless to say, a joyous evening of eating and (a little drinking) ended another
wonderful day.
17th September - Balcanoona (Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary), William Creek
The day began with another informative tour around the waterholes of Arkaroola - this
tour was hosted by Doug Sprigg himself – the son of the founder of the Sanctuary,
Reg Sprigg (a noted geologist and conservationist). Doug is a walking encyclopaedia
and an experience in itself. His father, Reg, was a protégé of Sir Douglas Mawson –
he and his wife Griselda set up Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary as a wildlife refuge
and tourist attraction in 1968. Son Doug and daughter Margaret have carried this
venture on.
Then it was goodbye to Arkaroola for a leisurely flight to William Creek.
Many of the group chose to take a sightseeing tour from Balcanoona to
William Creek – collectively we took in Lake Eyre, Birdsville Track,
Leigh Creek and Lake Torrens.
We arrived at William Creek and were thrilled to be met with spruce,
new units where hot showers and air conditioning was waiting after a
lovely cold beer at the bar. William Creek was bursting at the seams
with tourists and our host (‘Trevor – I own the town’) did well to feed us
all. During our dinner, Trevor organised for his head pilot to give us a
chat about her experience flying in the outback. As a young pilot when
she came to William Creek, she has now amassed about 4500 hours.
In the morning, breakfast at the pub before were sent on our way happy
and impressed with outback industry and hospitality.
18th September – Birdsville
Another beautiful day in the red hues of the outback, breakfast at the
William Creek Hotel, then off on our various ways to meet up at
Birdsville. Some of us flew via Oodnadatta to have morning tea at the
Pink Roadhouse – that was a cheerful experience – shades of what’s to
come for you, Rod!!
Then, the iconic Birdsville greeted us with cold beers, brightly painted
buildings and once again, comfortable rooms. We all met up at 4:30 to
go on the Big Red 4WD tour. This was almost a spiritual experience;
rolling hills of wavy red sand and mirages of green grass! Sadly behind
this glorious view were the last remaining cattle of a herd that have had to be culled as the land won’t sustain
them.
Wine and nibbles were a civilised extra to enjoy the sunset on the Big Red. Then back home to another
delicious dinner, good wine, good conversation and…….welcome sleep!
And The
Winners Are….
19th September –Digger’s Rest and Innamincka
Graham and Tina left us at Birdsville and headed
off for Cairns. The rest of us headed to the Dig
Tree where we had an affair to attend – morning
tea and poetry at the Dig Tree. We all wore the
Australian colours of green and gold (Lloyd
presented in Priscilla of the Desert mode –
iridescent green and gold toe nail polish!) and
presented our chosen poems to commemorate our
Australian way of life. It was a moving ceremony –
with reflection, humour and pathos all present.
On to Innamincka for the final part of our trip –
another well-presented comfortable outback hotel;
more red dust and sand; and a river! We spent the
afternoon on a river cruise up the Cooper River
and saw our final evidence of the breadth of the Burke and Wills fantastic if
misdirected mission.
That evening we shared our final meal where judges David Roberts and David Long
presented their much considered awards! Look to the right—we think awards speak
for themselves!!
Sue and Barry
Dan Murphy award – no
prizes for guessing what this
was for.
Michelle and Michael
Burke and Wills award –
longest trip yet taken in aircraft; special award for
Michelle: Tarzan Grip award
(an award for best hanger on
the spine tingling 4WD tour
along the Flinders Ranges
ridge top.
Dianne and Lloyd
Yves Saint Laurent award
best dressed aircraft - nothing to be said!
Janet and David
Magellan Explorer’s award speaks for itself.
Kath and David
Mastership award - nutritious
natural lunches
Vicki and David
Pink Roadhouse award - in
recognition of his coming
homage to Oodnadatta Pink
Roadhouse
Marlene and Doug
Max Dupain award – nonstop photographer
Rod
Initiative award (showing
leadership in organising tyre
change at Arkaroola)
Bush
Repairs?!
Just pass the
duct tape
Shute Harbour
to Moorabbin
Nicole O’Sullivan
Each year we make a trip to Melbourne in our Piper Arrow II VH-CJV to see our family.
Travelling a total of around 1200 miles, it takes us about 9 hours of flying time from Shute
Harbour to Moorabbin airport. Usually we take one day to fly down, with two fuel, toilet and
food stops, Charleville and Narromine. Every leg of the trip has its own unique features. The
land is constantly changing and very interesting to look at from above. The crew for the trip is
made up of myself, my Dad, Craig (pilot and bag attendant) and my twin brothers.
The night before we leave involves a lot of
preparation, packing, fuelling the plane and
having everything ready for our early start in
the morning. We are all awake and ready to
go by 5:00am.
Driving down to our hanger and jumping in
the plane we are all really excited to start the
journey. With the hope that we haven’t
forgotten anything, although we have a
couple of times, we take off into the dawn.
Flying overhead Proserpine airport, we pick
up the outbound VOR and continue our climb
over the Great Dividing Range, watching the
spectacular sunrise over the hills and ocean through the light morning clouds and fog. Making
our way past Clermont, we track Moranbah then Emerald for Charleville. We are always
fascinated by the mines and what they look like and watch the road and rail trains travelling
along, leaving a trail of dust.
On landing at Charleville, we are always
greeted by a group of Kangaroos at the gate.
We always grab a bite to eat at the friendly
Flight Deck Café. We recommend a
microwaved chicken roll (the best!) and they
usually refuel the aircraft for us as well. The
Café is always good for some friendly
discussion. Sometimes we may overnight here
so we are in Melbourne by lunch time the next
day, in which case a nice, big, cheap meal at
the RSL is always called for.
On our second leg to Narromine we always
seem to find something new to look at, such
as huge herds of cattle all moving together
through their paddocks. Crossing the border from Queensland to New South Wales always
gets our attention, searching for the dog fence that defines the border and joking that the
people in the front are in New South for a second before the crew in the back.
We all seem to be hungry and thirsty, continuously looking for snacks and drinks. We have
learnt the hard way, however, that we must plan our drinks carefully, lest we get caught out
needing the toilet!
Dad and I always hope there are no sickies in the back! One Christmas this did happen when
one of the boys over-filled himself on Christmas goodies and decided, as we descended in to
the circuit, that he just couldn’t keep it down any more. After chucking up all over the nice
sheepskin covers and our flight manual, he then, upon disembarking, declared that he was
hungry! Luckily Nina happened to come and visit us just as we landed, and offered to wash
the covers and provide cleaning gear for us. She went well and truly above and beyond with
her service. Narromine is a friendly place, with a community full of gliders around the airport
on any given day. Nina and Peter have the Caravan Park on the very edge of the taxi way,
providing a great place to stay and camp with a short walk into town for excellent and cheap
food and drink. The golf course is right next door and many friendly visitors to the town camp
at the caravan park. Of course, don’t forget
the fantastic aviation museum. Narromine
is also the home town of sporting great
Glenn McGrath and many others and also a
short flight away is Dubbo and the Zoo.
The final leg of our journey to Moorabbin
seems shorter then what it is due to all the
excitement of arriving and then the chaotic
air traffic as we get closer. Once the
Murray River is in sight we know we’re
close.
The first time I did this route I was truly
amazed at how busy Controlled Air Space
can be, as it was the first time I had
experienced anything like it. It is very
difference to Proserpine or Mackay where there may be one other aircraft in the circuit.
Listening to the radio calls from other planes and air traffic control and then spotting planes
around us was definitely an unforgettable experience. When dad showed me the map of
Moorabbin Airport I was confused and surprised that an airport could be this busy.
The most recent time when landing I was navigating where we were and then looking at the
other air traffic when I found out that there was about three planes in one circuit. As I looked
to my left I saw a plane landing on the parallel runway at the same time as us, Straight ahead
was a plane just taking off before we touched down. Then on our right was a helicopter that
felt like it was only a couple of meters away from us. After making it through all that chaos,
once we had landed the taxi ways are numbered making it easier to work out where we were
on the map.
At last, we are there! We are greeted by the familiar faces of Grandma who lives in Melbourne
and by Mum, who has flown down commercially. After a few days or weeks spent in Victoria
we do the whole trip again backwards providing more excitement and adventures.
By Nicole O’Sullivan
The APS
Discussion
List
The APS Membership
Discussion List was launched
on Friday 28th February. It
has been great to see traffic on
the list building and the
committee would encourage all
members to get involved with
trip reports, queries or even
general chit-chat.
All APS members have been
signed up to the list with the
emails provided on the
membership database. The list
is hosted on Zuver and is
controlled and managed by
APS Committee members No
emails or personal details have
been shared with any third
party person or company.
So how does it work?
When you send an email to
list@pipersociety.org.au
a copy is automatically sent out
to every member. These
emails can be easily identified
as [APS_Members] will appear
in the subject line. To continue
the discussion, simply hit
“Reply”.
Calendar
APS
Management
Committee
President
Melissa Fisher
Mob 0458 172 999
president@piper.org.au
Australian Piper Society Events
DATE
EVENT
CONTACT
23rd-26th January
2015
Flinders Island Fly-In
Steve Musgrove (Bengido Aeroclub)
0419 373 310
24th February - 1st Australian International
March 2015
Airshow, Avalon
We will have a tent on site and aircraft
on display offering an insight into our
society and a meet and greet. Further details will follow
March 2015
David Seddon
ppp@piper.org.au
PPP and Partners Course
Merimbula, NSW
10th-16th May
2015
Opals and Rocks Flyaway
Coober Pedy, Alice Springs
and Uluru
Details to come
4th-10th July 2015
(Tentative)
Sunshine Coast and Great
Keppel Island Flyaway
Details to come
August 2015
Coral, Cape, Cains and
Thursday Island Flyaway
Details to come
September 2015
PPP and Partners Course
Orange, NSW
PPP Merimbula
Our next
Pilot Proficiency Programme
including our Partners in flight course is on
the calendar for March 2015 in the beautiful
coastal town of Merimbula NSW.
A full weekend is planned, taking in our new
and exciting stage 3 course.
As we speak, the course is being designed
and written to take you further into aspects
of you and your aircraft. Develop your
knowledge and capabilities and make your
flying time even more pleasurable.
Full details to follow in the New Year.
David Seddon
ppp@piper.org.au
Vice President
Adrian Basile
Ph 03 5450 3577
Mob 0419 802 113
vicepresident@piper.org.au
Secretary
Barry McCabe
Ph 074622 6411
Mob 0409 226 411
secretary@piper.org.au
Treasurer
Irene Lawson
Ph 03 5988 4608
Mob 0401 775 782
treasurer@piper.org.au
Pilot Proficiency
David Seddon
Ph 03 5023 5162
ppp@piper.org.au
Membership
Irene Lawson
Ph 03 5988 4608
Mob 0401 775 782
membership@piper.org.au
Committee (Forum)
David Long
Ph 03 9751 0757
Mob 0408 345 278
committee@piper.org.au
Committee (Social)
Ned Gloster
Mob 0424 031 447
social@piper.org.au
Newsletter
Scott Lewis
Mob 0428 454 337
newsletter@piper.org.au
Technical Advisor
Rod Shearer
Mob 0419 717 212
technical@piper.org.au