Is it a bird? Is it a plane?

By Matt Romania

At just 15 years old, Alex Turner completed his first solo gliding flight at Bacchus Marsh Airfield, supported by the Geelong Gliding Club.

Onlookers might wonder, “Is it a bird? Is it a plane?” It’s gliding. The Moorabool News spoke to a club member for insights.

Alf McMillan, an adept of the gliding community, shared a bit about the magnetism of gliding and the history behind his interest.

“The Air Training Corps in the UK introduced young enthusiasts like me to gliding. That first taste of controlling an aeroplane and flying solo as a schoolboy was exhilarating,” he said.

“Almost half a century later, the thrill hasn’t diminished. I cherish the challenge of seeking lift, sometimes journeying over 500 km during a single, mesmerising 6–7 hour flight.”

For the many who frequently tilt their heads upwards, unsure by the silhouette of gliders floating seamlessly across the sky, Mr McMillan elaborated about what’s involved with being a glider pilot.

“Glider pilots start with safety. The unpredictable requires swift and accurate responses. Unlike their powered counterparts, gliders chase after rising air. We’re always calculating, ensuring we harness as much lift as possible while minimising our sinking intervals.”

For those feeling the pull of the skies, Mr McMillan recommends a straightforward approach. “Drop by your local gliding club and immerse yourself in a trial instructional flight. That experience will be a litmus test for whether gliding resonates with you.”

Peering into the club’s future, Mr McMillan said winter remains the most industrious season, packed with annual glider inspections.

“It also stands out as the prime time for newcomers to learn. Furthermore, the excitement is palpable as our club members actively gear up for the World Gliding Championship event, slated for the year’s finale.”

The Geelong Gliding Club, established in 1929, has over 100 members. The club’s mission is to train pilots in safe cross-country and soaring flights and, as an accredited VSA Youth Glide Centre, to support junior pilots in their training.