Fest of model aircraft is ready for take-off

THE Mount Wallace Model Aircraft Association field will welcome enthusiasts and members of the public this weekend for the Mount Wallace Festival of Flight.

Running from 9am to 5pm on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 October, the event will unite all model aviation disciplines and see them take off from the grassed runway.

“There will be pretty much everything, from radio controlled scale aircraft and sport aircraft, to turbine jets and radio controlled gliders,” said MWMAA president Garry Thiele.

“We expect 25 to 30 pilots, and most of them will bring two to three aircraft each with them. You always bring spares.”

Mr Thiele said the event is also an opportunity to attract new members.

“What we’re trying to do is bring juniors into the sport, so this is an opportunity to bring families to the field,” he said.

“If they can play computer games or simulators, they can fly a model aircraft.”

The event is part of the Victorian Model Aeronautical Association Festival of Flight initiative. There will be catering on site, and entry is by gold coin donation.

The Mount Wallace Model Aircraft Association field is at 187 Brisbane Ranges Road, Mount Wallace, and with the backing of recent community grants, members have been able to install two new shade shelters, toilets and showers, and create an all-weather driveway.

“We received $11,962 from Moorabool Wind Farm to finance shelters and associated costs, the showers and toilets were courtesy of $11,779 from Pacific Blue, and Community Bank Bacchus Marsh paid for our new driveway and drainage with $7216,” Mr Thiele said.

“Our membership stagnated because we had no shade and we didn’t have amenties. It was difficult for a family to come out here.

“Having the amenities means members with models using the state field can stay over night.”

A Try and Fly day for those wishing to safely have a go at flying a model aircraft will be held later in the year. Visit mwmaa.org for updates.