SAFETY REPORT
What’s the CO 13
WHITEGUM AIRPARK
Fly-in event 14
RACWA
RACWA
16
18
Open Day 2021
Strategic Plan
MAR-MAY 2021
Tarmac Topics
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ROYAL AERO CLUB OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)
PATRON Kim Beazley, AC Governor of Western Australia
Welcome to our new club members Craig Davidson Wes Deane Geoffrey Chambers
COMMITTEE
Bella Yewers
Ray Challen
Brian Fitzgerald
President 0408 321 262 ray@challen.com.au
Bruce Rathbone Vice President 0427 004 130
Nathan Gilmour Andrew Mouncer Spencer Walters Lorenzo Tarquinio Emrik Graff Geoffrey Glazier Lawrence Felgate
rathbone@iinet.net.au
Brian Werndly
Jim di Menna Treasurer
Siva Muniandy
0419 434 283 Jim.diMenna@zetta.com.au
Gennaro Di-Dato
Mick Harcourt
Troy Mulder
Club Captain 0402 800 862 mickh@iprimus.net.au
Adam Francki Simranjeet Singh Marcelo Mottin John Goldsmith
Andrew Eldridge Committee Member 0438 220 703 andrew.eldridge@bigpond.com
Russell Philip Committee Member 0427 999 261 raphilip@westnet.com.au
Stephen Pearce Committee Member spearce@outlook.com.au
Vaughan Emery Committee Member 0412 923 494 vaughanemery@bigpond.com
Haydn Vernon Committee Member haydn.vernon@gemcorail.com.au
To download our Members Guide visit our Website - royalaeroclubwa.com.au
CEO REPORT Our 2021 Open Day was a resounding success, with a steady
recruiting within the next two to three years. This augurs
stream of visitors to the Club throughout the day. One would
well for the future of commercial training.
scarcely believe a year ago, the Club was in the midst of a
The College has been very busy with PPL, CPL and IREX
COVID lockdown. This year, members, students and staff
classes being delivered in April and May. The A21 class all
volunteered their time to show the public our fleet, other
completed their RPL flight test ahead of schedule and will
aircraft and a range of other aviation related displays.
be commencing their PPL phase of training towards the end
We were very fortunate to experience perfect weather on
of May, which will place increased demand on the C172 fleet
the day, and the relaxing of COVID restrictions hours before
during the week.
the start of the event.
EEP has emerged from the hangar with a new engine with
Part of the Club’s Charter is to “create and foster an interest
IBP next in line for an engine change.
in aviation” and the Open Day certainly ticked this box. There
Murrayfield flying is growing, especially over the weekends.
are many students that attribute attending an open day as
CAR is not well utilised, so consider the cheaper hire rate and
the reason they commenced training at the Club. The two
no landing fee at YMUL before booking a C172 at Jandakot.
free learn-to-fly seminars were well attended, so hopefully we will see more students commencing their training at our
Congratulations to Iain Currill and Russell Philip for organis-
club.
ing a tremendously successful Bun Run. Many of the pilots claimed that they had never participated in such a large
I would like to thank the Australian Air force Cadets, Inter-
fly-in before.
spacial (drone training), the WA Radio Modellers, Jandakot Instruments and the Australian Women Pilots’ Association
Reece Bateson has been approved by CASA to be the Club’s
for adding to the variety of the event. Thanks also go to
new safety manager. Thanks to Tim Berryman for stepping
Penjet, Ray and Craig Challen, Vaughan Emery, Dieter Ebeling
into the breach and acting as Safety Manager prior to Reece’s
and the Sport Aircraft Builders Club for providing additional
approval.
aircraft for the public to view.
The autumn and winter months provide some of the best
April flying was restricted by a COVID lockdown, rain and
flying conditions of the year, with very calm, cool air to give
smoke. Whilst these factors did negatively impact total hours
you good lift and turbulence-free flying – so make the most
for the month, the Club continues to experience growth in
of this opportunity. If you are concerned about the weather,
both training and private hire.
speak to an instructor.
The instructor team will shortly be increased to cater to this growth, with seven more casual instructors undergoing standardisation training. Our marketing efforts have been focused on the annual Careers Expo, the Open Day and school visits. The weekly email has undergone a change and we are looking at options for the Tarmac Topics magazine. I recently attended a Zoom meeting of flying training organisations, organised by the Federal Government. There is considerable optimism for the future growth in aviation, David Currey
with everyone predicting a significant increase in airline pilot
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TARMAC TOPICS MAR-MAY 2021
CLUB CAPTAIN’S REPORT “It
was
the
best
of
times;
it
was
the
attended by all that took part! (See articles in this edition)
worst
of times”
As I start writing, the first in a trilogy of Night Flying Comps
April 2021, was originally going to be a month to remember
is hap-pening in a day or two, let me advise you of the
in Royal Aero Club recent history, with so much happening,
format:
from a new Comp at Murrayfield (YMUL), to a final Big
Contact the Club Operations, or me, to register – this is so
Breakfast for the year at Jandakot, also encompassing the
we know how many instructors and aircraft we require to
Bun Run to Rotto and a day trip to WhiteGum Farm.
hold the Comp. Because of the lack of NVFR or lack of
A freak storm came through at the beginning of the month
Currency in NVFR, we all fly with Instructors, this is included in
and forced us to cancel the YMUL Comp, then, with the
the cost.
COVID lock down, we had to cancel the breakfast and YPJT
On the day of the Comp – sign in - there’ll be a desk set up
Comp at the end of the month.
in the foyer of the Club from 1630hr onwards for you to do
The good news was that we managed a couple of fantastic
this as well as receive your “Score Sheet” and pre-pay for
fly-ins to both Rotto and WhiteGum Farm, enjoyed and well
the event with credit card facilities available (we still take cash, too!).
ROYAL AERO CLUB OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)
4
You will be directed upstairs to the Members' Lounge for a
In September, there will be a re-enactment of the first Air
briefing at 1745hr prompt. You will be given the ins and
Mail Service in Australia, initiated by Norman Brearley
outs, do’s and don’ts of the Comp.
(later Sir Norman), one of the founding members of the Royal Aero Club of WA. The route we will take is from
Muzz Buzz will be open from 1700hr, for those
Geraldton to Derby with several stops along the way. We are
wishing to have a feed or tea and coffee before
in the stages of planning this event and would welcome
the brief.
anyone wishing to take part. Express your interest with
Let me also remind you that you need not have flown at night
Operations, contact myself or Club President, Ray Challen.
before (pick me!), nor even be current to take part. There is
October this year will see the 90th anniversary of the de
one drawback however, and that is you may get sucked into
Havilland Tiger Moth...hmmm, you say, what does that
wanting to fly some more at night because it is a fantastic
mean?
experience! Ask your Instructor how to go about it.
It’s a reminder of the longevity of these aircraft, with a strict
STOP THE PRESS: Night Comp 1 Winners – Brad Gilchrist
maintenance schedule and care taken when flying them
(Rated) and Haydn Vernon (Non-rated).
to ensure their usefulness well into the future. We are very
Night Comp 2 Winners - Rob Van Hammersveld, Hayden
fortunate RACWA has two of these aircraft available, not
Vernon and Anthony Barbaro.
only for joy flights but also for training! (T&Cs apply). On Saturday 23rd October we will have a Tiger Moth
There is one remaining Nigh Comp on Wednesday 7th July.
meet at Murrayfield. Tigers from around the State will be
I hope to see you there!
invited to fly-in and will be available for you to see.
We were able to have another go at the Currency Comp at
This year so far, notwithstanding COVID lock downs, has
YMUL 16th May and a Practice Forced Landings on the
been on the whole, very productive for flying, with only a
13th June.
few ‘stoppages’ where the weather Gods were unkind.
Plus we got back to basics with an Instrumentless Circuit for
But as is the great tradition of this Club of ours, we move
the YPJT comp on the 30th May, and snuck in the very
on and either repeat canceled events or find a suitable
popular Instrument Circuit on the 27th June.
replacement.
On Saturday 12th June we remembered all those who
The Flying Committee (F.C.), metaphorically, always has
serverd in Bomber Command, with our annual afternoon
its doors open to Members. Whilst we may not produce
commemoration formation flight over the Swan River and
exactly
the City. The bomber crews that operated these aircraft
what
is
required,
because
of
operational
constraints, we have been coming up with quite a program
during The Second World War lost more than 50,000 of
in the last few months that has hopefully not only kept us
them both in action and training.
(F.C.) busy, but been of interest to you all.
If you don’t know what a heavy bomber looks like, take a
And lastly, a New (Privately owned) Chipmunk has
short trip out to the Bullcreek museum and have a look at
recently arrived at Jandakot, and not only looks great, but
their Lancaster Bomber, among other fantastic and inter-
is a joy to fly!
esting items.
Happy Flying
July promises to be a busy month with another great “Short Haul” fly-in to Wheeler Field, west of Coolup. Flying
Mick Harcourt
Commit-tee member Vaughan Emery, is in the process of
Club Captain
securing the date for a fly-in to this private airstrip, or should I say airstrips! There are three unsealed runways to choose from! Once dates, times and permissions are sorted there will be a communique to advise you of the details of this anticipated one-day event. At this stage, I would like to make mention of some longterm projects on the go...
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TARMAC TOPICS MAR-MAY 2021
AIRMANSHIP - FROM THE HEAD OF OPERATIONS Aircraft Sympathy
mechanism under the seat. This is a costly exercise as for example a Mooney seat can cost $1000 to replace.
Written by David Royans
BRAKES: Don’t ride the brakes, they get hot and damaged by this practice. Always close the throttle before using
It never ceases to amaze me how many pilots I come across
brakes i.e. you should never use power against brakes. You
who don’t seem to be aware of how easy it is to damage
wouldn’t do it in your car. When taxiing, your toes should be
the equipment we use. Aircraft are generally built strong,
on the bottom of the rudder pedals with your heels on the
but light (that’s why they can fly), however, the structural
floor. A lot of damage/wear is done to the brakes without
strength is not designed to take ham-fisted treatment by
the culprit even realising it.
pilots. The following is common sense and may assist with
DOORS: You should always be mindful of where the wind
minimising damage to the aeroplane you are flying.
is coming from when opening doors.
Remember damage is a 2-fold issue. Firstly, damage can make an aeroplane unserviceable or at the very least look
If the wind is coming from behind the aircraft and you don’t
non-aesthetic. Secondly, it is generally very expensive.
hold the door when unlatching it, the wind will take the door and break one or more components on it – generally, the
CONTROL LOCKS: Prevent control surfaces from being
hinge will go immediately then possibly buckle the door. Car
damaged by either inclement weather conditions, or prop
doors can weigh somewhere around 50kg but you may not
wash from aircraft operated by pilots who don’t concern
be aware that the average aircraft door weighs in at about
themselves with what’s happening behind their aircraft (a
3kg. It will not take much to break and can cost up to $8000.
whole other airmanship discussion). Once the pre-flight inspection is complete, if you are not intending to embark
WHEEL SPATS: May be fibreglass or plastic. Aero Club air-
the aircraft immediately, internal control locks should be
craft are currently all plastic. People standing or sitting on
replaced, and the flaps retracted – don’t forget to turn the
them have often broken them. A replacement wheel spat
master switch off! The control lock should only be removed
can cost $2000.
at the last moment before starting the engine(s). Serious
CONTROL COLUMN: When checking the controls for full
consideration should be given whether to replace external
and free movement, don’t “slam” the column to the stops.
control locks or not after a pre-flight inspection. Any delay
Treat the controls as if your life depends on the condition
between pre-flight inspection and climbing aboard the air-
they are in – because it does.
craft can induce forgetfulness – this can be caused by task saturation. If you forget to remove an external control lock,
BATTERY: Minimise the drain of power from the battery
it can have serious consequences.
during the pre-flight inspection, particularly in cold weather. The battery capacity is lower when it is cold, and apart from
If the control lock is in the control column it should only be
the oil not being so viscous, the rotational friction is greater
removed prior to engine start or for pre-flight inspection.
when the engine is cold. The same amount of drain from
SEATS: Should NEVER be adjusted upwards while sitting in
the battery during the pre-flight inspection on a cold day
them. It is generally ok to adjust the seat downwards while
as on a hot day may see the battery with not enough power
sitting in them, but if you attempt to adjust it upwards while
to start the engine.
sitting in it your weight will more likely than not break the
ROYAL AERO CLUB OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)
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THROTTLE FRICTION: The nut is, not always but generally,
before seeing it on the gauges. Aerobatic pilots are very
plastic. Overtightening of the nut will break it. The friction
mindful of this, the engine can quickly go beyond the red
should only be tight enough to prevent the throttle from
line if not monitored. You should be able to hear this before
“creeping” should you need to release the lever.
seeing it.
Generally, as soon as resistance is felt when tightening is
The Chief Engineer speaks the engine’s language. Don’t be
sufficient.
afraid to talk to Glen Caple about any concerns you may have with aircraft components or noises that sound unfa-
It’s not designed to prevent you from being able to move
miliar to you.
the throttle.
These are but a few of the myriad of issues we should be
Listen to the engine, don’t just rely on the gauges. The
aware of. They are simple common-sense issues but unfor-
engine will “talk” to you – listen to what it is saying!
tunately, common sense is difficult to teach.
You should be able to recognise a change in the engine tone
7
TARMAC TOPICS MAR-MAY 2021
ACHIEVERS Congratulations to all of our achievers for the months of March and April. We are very proud to see so many people reaching new heights in their flight training with us.
FIRST SOLO
Andrew Mouncer - First Solo March
Brian Fitzgerald - First Solo March
Connor Hunt - First Solo March
Dakota Rempel - First Solo April
Dirk Bevilaqua - First Solo April
Emily Philippe - First Solo March
Fraser Dunlop - First Solo April
Greg Williams - First Solo March
ROYAL AERO CLUB OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)
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Jiayu Hu - First Solo March
Joshua Kostka - First Solo April
Lachlan Cable - First Solo April
Lawrence Felgate - First Solo April
Liam Barr - First Solo March
Liam Kirk - First Solo March
Mitchell D’Esterre - First Solo April
Noah Humberstone - First Solo April
Philip Hardless - First Solo April
Phuntsho Nidup - First Solo April
Roneesha James - First Solo March
Ruth Dowson - First Solo March
9
TARMAC TOPICS MAR-MAY 2021
RECREATIONAL PILOT’S LICENCE (RPL)
Tom Watts - First Solo March
Troy King - First Solo March
Avneet Gill - RPL April
Ayran Patwardhan - RPL April
Connor Hunt - RPL April
Emily Phillipe - RPL April
Evan Eivers - RPL March
Kim McDougall - RPL March
Liam Barr - RPL April
Liam Kirk - RPL April
Matthew Hoey - RPL April
ROYAL AERO CLUB OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)
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PRIVATE PILOT’S LICENCE (PPL)
Roneesha James - RPL April
Adam Bettles - PPL April
Ahmad El Khatib - PPL March
Andrea Nguyen - PPL April
Nicholas Pulvirenti - PPL March
Nick Burston - PPL March
Ryan Ackroyd - PPL April
Sean Hogg - PPL March
Gerrit Meyer - CPL April
Jose Espanol - CPL March
COMMERCIAL PILOT’S LICENCE (CPL)
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TARMAC TOPICS MAR-MAY 2021
INSTRUCTOR RATING
Josh Carter - Grade 3 Instructor April
Ray Challen - Grade 3 Instructor April
Marco Surace - Grade 3 Instructor April
Scott Ryan - Grade 3 Instructor April
WAAC Students, Class A21 L.Barr, R.James, A.Gill, L.Kirk, E.Philippe, C.Hunt, E.Eivers
ROYAL AERO CLUB OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)
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SAFETY REPORT “What’s the CO” Written by Reece Bateson Information sourced from ATSB, CASA and FAA What is CO (carbon monoxide) you ask and why is it such
indicate a large amount of CO. The pad will then return to
an important thing to cover in aviation? Well, Carbon Mon-
its original colour once the CO has been cleared.
oxide is a byproduct of the incomplete combustion of car-
The symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure can include
bon-containing materials. Aviation fuel contains carbon and
headache, drowsiness, impaired judgement and shortness
is a ready source of carbon monoxide when burned. It is a
of breath.
truly hidden menace because, by itself, it is both a colourless
Protecting yourself from exposure is first and foremost
and odourless gas and unsuspecting victims would not be aware of its presence until symptoms developed.
about education and awareness.
Over the years there have been many documented aviation
Including the CO detector as part of your usual cockpit scan
accidents and incidents that have been caused by full or
is important for early detection!!
partial incapacitation of pilots by carbon monoxide poison-
Any sensation of illness should call for immediate trouble-
ing. Two recent cases have been reported by the ATSB that
shooting, as follows;
have triggered safety notices and airworthiness directives.
• Check the CO detector for signs of exposure.
Follow the links below for further information;
• Turn the cabin heat fully off.
https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications/
• Increase the rate of cabin fresh air ventilation to the
investigation_reports/2020/aair/ao-2020-026/
maximum.
https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications/safety-advisory-
• Open windows if the flight profile and aircraft’s operating
notice/ao-2017-118-san-002/
manual permit such an action.
https://www.faa.gov/pilots/safety/pilotsafetybrochures/
• Land as promptly as possible.
media/cobroforweb.pdf
• Do not hesitate to let Air Traffic Control know of your concerns and ask for assistance.
The safety committee at the club has recently arranged for the purchase and ongoing replacement of passive CO
• Once on the ground, seek medical attention.
detectors for all 30 Club aircraft. Except for VH-MNX (C182)
• Before any further flights, have the aircraft inspected by
which will have an active monitor. Maintenance will be ini-
maintenance.
tially installing them at the aircraft's 100 hourly inspections
If you have any questions about the detectors, please don’t
and replacing them every 12 months.
hesitate to contact myself or ask one of our friendly instruc-
The passive detectors being installed are as per the CON-
tors.
TROLLER image.
Happy and Safe Flying!
The orange pad will start to change colour according to the
Reece Bateson Safety Manager
legend around the pad and at the bottom of the detector. Grey spots appearing anywhere on the orange pad will indicate the presence of a small amount of CO. Black spots will
13
TARMAC TOPICS MAR-MAY 2021
WhiteGum Wow! Replica Spitfire full throttle fly thru
WHITEGUM AIRPARK FLY-IN EVENT Written by Vaughan Emery
conducted the briefing in the Members’ Lounge for those departing from Jandakot ensuring all aircraft
Saturday 17th April began as another clear perfect
could arrive on the 750 metre O9 / 27 gravel runway
Perth autumn day delivering ideal conditions for
by 1100hrs ready for the welcome by WhiteGum host
the Royal Aero Club’s latest fly-in event, this time
Gary Sergeant.
to WhiteGum Airpark, a scenic 58nm flight East of
WhiteGum Farm and WhiteGum Airpark is a big story
Jandakot. The perfect weather and destination
and many of the 50 pilots and passengers attending
provided 22 pilots and their passengers a wonderful
were surprised by the scale of the development - and
opportunity to go flying!
then amazed as Gary’s presentation simultaneously concluded with a big wow moment: a surprise low level
Saturday morning, Club Captain Mick Harcourt
ROYAL AERO CLUB OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)
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Club Capt. Mick Harcourt about to board the B737-200
Gary Sargeant (centre) welcoming the RACWA fliers to WhiteGum
Russell Phillip directing traffic at the bar with Stephen Pearce
Club President Ray Challen and Marco Surace departing WhiteGum in the R44 with Craig Challen in command
Ready for take-off! Anthony Buckley with Steve Saunders in the B737-200
Rolling! Runway 27
Brendon Cox and Artur Lugmayr arriving WhiteGum in a C152
full throttle fly through display of the replica Spitfire
By mid-afternoon, after a great day in the perfect con-
hangared and maintained at WhiteGum.
ditions, all aircraft had departed safely for Jandakot, Murrayfield, Serpentine and Northam airfields.
After delicious lunch meals served in the Lake Kimberly Bar and Grill there was still plenty of time to inspect the
Credits:
facilities which include a caravan park, cabin accommo-
Special thanks to the WhiteGum Airpark team; Gary
dation and the elevated lookout with views across the
Sargeant, Fred Selley and Andrew Cottrell.
runways. In addition, hangars house a MIG21, Foxbat
RACWA Fly-in organisers:
training aircraft and the Gyrocopter flying school.
Mick Harcourt, Vaughan Emery, Anthony Buckley.
The big attraction is the Boeing 737-200 which is being fully reassembled - and soon to be joined by a second 737 currently being disassembled at Perth Airport. Originally there were three 737-200s operated by OZ Jet - the third is located at TAFE Jandakot Airport and is in use as a full-scale training resource. At WhiteGum works are underway on extending the 09
WestFly is the big annual fly-in event at WhiteGum held on the weekend beginning 17 September, all are welcome!
/ 27 runway and soon work will commence widening and levelling the 14 / 32 1400m runway too. Ultimately both runways are to be sealed with a sealed hardstand added for visiting aircraft.
15
TARMAC TOPICS MAR-MAY 2021
Student Mitchell D’Esterre in a C-152
RACWA OPEN DAY 2021
Thank you to everyone who made this year’s Open Day such a success. We were very fortunate to have such beautiful weather forecasted and Covid restrictions easing just hours prior to the event. Two Learn to Fly Seminars, a large aircraft display and Muzz Buzz hosting a sausage sizzle also drew the crowds. Special thanks to the RACWA staff, students and volunteers. A lot of planning and preparation went in to ensuring that day’s success and it certainly didn’t go unnoticed. In addition to the Club and College stands, we were pleased to see representatives from Jandakot Instruments, Australian Women Pilots’ Association, Club Flying Committee, Western Australia Aviation College, Interspacial Professional Drone Training, Australian Air Force Cadets and Western Australia Radio Modellers. Visitors playing with a flight simulator
ROYAL AERO CLUB OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)
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Mooney on display on the apron
RACWA representatives J. Woong, K, Weekes, T. Keamy
WAAC stand with J.Woong, A.Gill, H.Tsang
17
TARMAC TOPICS MAR-MAY 2021
STRATEGIC PLAN Our fleet of aircraft is old and, with the exception of the
FROM THE PRESIDENT... RAY CHALLEN
C172s, nearing end of life. In particular, our commercial training fleet (the Mooneys and Partenavias) have high maintenance requirements and do not compare well with
Hello Members
the offerings of competing flying schools.
Judging by the attendance at club flying events, many of
Fortunately, the Club is in a good position to be able to make the investments necessary for a process of renewal.
you have been enjoying the best flying weather of the year
The Club has a strong financial balance sheet and cash flow
during the Autumn months. It was great to see large atten-
that will enable funding of improvements in facilities and
dances at the traditional Rottnest Island Bun Run on Good
purchase of new aircraft. There is an excellent management
Friday and a more recent lunch fly-in at White Gum Farm.
and staff team, and a committed member base.
As mentioned in my last column, your committee has been
Our development goal is to increase the focus on the Club
giving a lot of thought to how we want the Club to develop
and our members as our core business. A club of members
over the next few years and formulating this into a business
with a passion for aviation is who we are. Yes, we want to
strategy.
continue our proud heritage as a flying school – including
The context for this is, that over the last couple of years the
training of commercial pilots – but a strong club must come
Club has emerged from a decade of commercial recovery
first. The Committee has expressed this in a new mission
in a difficult environment for club and training activity to a
and vision statements.
current outlook that is much brighter.
OUR MISSION
There has been a resurgence in interest in recreational and private flying. There is a strong interest in, and demand for,
Promoting aviation in Western Australia for the benefit of our members and the wider community.
RPL and PPL training and a steady increase in participation in club competitions and flying events. Despite the ravages of the COVID pandemic on the airline and tourism-aviation sectors, the outlook is one of high
OUR VISION
demand for commercial training. In late 2020, the Western Australian Aviation College became accredited for students
A strong and vibrant club of aviators and other members with an interest in aviation, supported by flying training with a leading reputation for excellence.
to obtain VET Student Loans and this immediately resulted in a large increase in enrolments for CPL training. Translating this brighter outlook into opportunities for the Club is not, however, without challenges.
The Committee has developed a business strategy for the
Our facilities, communications and services are “tired” and
three years 2021/22 to 2023/24. This strategy looks to com-
do not present as welcoming and attractive for members
mence a programme of cautious and considered investment
and visitors. There is a drastic need for refurbishment and
in the Club and WAAC and has the following elements.
renewal to appeal to current and new members as a desirable club environment.
ROYAL AERO CLUB OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)
18
INVESTING IN THE CLUB AND ATTRACTING NEW MEMBERS
MURRAYFIELD
Improving the member and visitor experience of the Club
field as a “signal” to the aviation community that RACWA is
premises by refurbishing the entrance and the member’s
open to development of Murrayfield if there is a demonstra-
lounge and establishing a 7-day week café that is attractive
ble demand for hangars and related facilities.
Construct an access road to the north-west area of the air-
to club members, the broader Jandakot airport community, and non-flying family and friends.
FINANCE AND GOVERNANCE
Changing the training programme for RPL and PPL student
Improve the capability and effectiveness of the Committee
pilots to more successfully recruit and integrate students
and executive management in driving commercial perfor-
into the Club during the training phase.
mance and managing business risks to ensure that financial investments in the future of the Club are made with due
RECOMMENCE AND CONTINUE YOUNG EAGLES
discipline and accountability. I am pleased to be able to report that work has already started on some of these initiatives. Concepts are being explored
Improve club communications across print, digital and
for refurbishing the Members’ Lounge; the cooperation of
web channels, including a web-based interface for entry of events and purchase of services.
the Shire of Murray has been secured to develop the new
COMMERCIAL TRAINING AND THE WESTERN AUSTRALIAN AVIATION COLLEGE
increase in WAAC enrolments.
access road at Murrayfield; there has already been a large
I hope that you will start to see evidence of change and improvement throughout the Club over the remainder of this year.
Improve reporting to club members on the performance of commercial training, and the financial and other benefits to
If you would like to discuss any of these initiatives, collar me
RACWA and club members.
or any of the other committee members around the Club. We are enthusiastic about the process of change that we are
Utilise the opportunity created by accreditation under the
embarking on and will be very happy to talk to you about it.
VET Student Loan scheme to expand WAAC to a sustain-
Most importantly, our success as a club depends not only
able commercial scale with a broader range of commercial
on our facilities and services, but also on the participation
training courses.
of members. I encourage all of you to get involved.
Separate commercial training from club training to enable
Until then, happy and safe flying
each to develop suitable pilot training programmes and
Ray
training cultures for recreational or commercial pilots. Progressively transition WAAC to a standalone commercial flight school operating with its own board, operating at arms-length from RACWA and with its own staff and fleet. Purchase modern training aircraft to replace the Mooney and Partenavia fleets.
19
TARMAC TOPICS MAR-MAY 2021
MNX turning into the cross runway which was used for aircraft parking.
$100 HAMBURGER CLUB VISIT TO WADDI FARM Written by David Currey
The event proved that hav-
Six aircraft travelled to the
ing a pilot’s licence can open
Waddi Farm resort in May. A highlight of the trip was taking off with very efficient portable lighting illuminating the runway, a first for most pilots. Michael Braybrook and his wife laid on an exceptional 5-course meal for the 23 visitors. The volume of conversation in the restaurant was a testament to the level of enjoyment experienced by all.
ROYAL AERO CLUB OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)
20
some very unique doors. It was agreed that a trip to Waddi Farm should become an annual event. The resort has reasonably priced chalets, so would make a great place to visit for a navigation exercise, or simply to get away from the rat race. The resort is approximately a 55 minute flight from Jandakot in a C172 and has a 3,000 ft primary runway which is 90 ft wide.
MURRAYFIELD MATTERS
Written by Liz Garcia
solo here at Murrayfield. John Ridley (7th March),
An eventful couple of months with Easter and Moth-
Andrew Mouncer (20th March), Gary Williams (26th March), Paul Ware (2nd May) and Beau Outridge
er’s Day, in addition to a 3-day Covid lock down,
(17th May). Congratulations all on working hard and
again donning the now fashionable face mask of the times. We did not let that hold us back. Once we
accomplishing this milestone.
reopened, it was business as usual.
The next Murrayfield competition to look out for
In between bouts of strong crosswinds, smoke
will be an instrument circuit on the 11th July.
and now the occasional storm, we have had a busy
Come on down and enjoy a hot cooked breakfast
month with five more pilots achieving their first
and test your emergency landing skills.
21
TARMAC TOPICS MAR-MAY 2021
OLD FLYERS Written by Steve Rogers
In 1789 an American whaling boat visited the south coast of Western
The Old Fliers Group have never
Australia and the crew saw an
presented a talk on the whale
abundance of Right whales.
spotting pilots and their aircraft. Australia and New Zealand, once actively
involved
in
hunting
whales, are now fierce advocates for the preservation of whales. Far better to watch these gentle giants than to kill them. Few know that whaling was once one of the first industries of Western Australia.
ROYAL AERO CLUB OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)
Word got around and it wasn’t long before these were fished out.
dropped and stocks diminished. Renewed interest in whaling came with WW2. In Western Australia, where large numbers of humpbacks migrated from the Antarctic along the
Whalers were recorded at Cheynes
southern and west coasts, pri-
Beach in Albany in the 1840s.
vate companies established land-
Norwegian
whalers
dominated
from the late 19th century using improved
technology
such
as
explosive harpoons. The industry declined in the late 1920s as prices for whale oil
22
based whaling stations in Albany and Point Cloates, near Exmouth. The Point Cloates whaling station was used intermittently from 1915 to 1957. After many changes of ownership,
the Moore family bought it nam-
• John Downie, 1957 – 1958
Master Gunner had torn his leg off.
ing it the Nor’-West Whaling Co.
• John Bell 1961 – 1978
Captain Ches Stubbs had fired a
• Mick Walters 1968 –1969
harpoon at a whale, but a wave
• Ron Asher 1966 – 1967
had washed the attached rope
Pty Ltd. In Albany, the Cheynes Beach Whaling Company was formed by a family syndicate of eight fishermen headed by two local men. The initial quota for the first year was 50 humpback whales.
• Ray Robertson 1966 -1973 • Derek Padgett June 1972 and 1973 – Dec 1976 The first aircraft used by Cheynes
around his leg. As the captain pulled the trigger his leg was torn off. John managed to “land” his aircraft
for whale spotting was an Auster
besides the boat and with difficul-
In 1954 the station loaded 1016
which was chartered and flown by
ty the Captain was loaded aboard
tons of whale oil extracted from
John Downie.
with the First mate.
The second was a Cessna 172,
The aircraft couldn’t take off, so
Following record low catches in
chartered and used between 1958
the Mate was offloaded.
1962 the International Whaling
and 1961.
He couldn’t swim and sharks had
The third was a Cessna 150, pur-
been attracted.
120 whales.
Commission ended whaling of humpbacks from Antarctic stocks so the company commenced hunting sperm whales instead. Whaling continued from the station until 1978 when the last whale was legally caught in Australian waters. The Cheynes Beach Whaling Company closed in 1978 and was converted into a museum named Albany’s Historic Whaling Station. Nowadays aircraft that fly out to sea are carrying tourists. In the past aircraft flew out to sea with pilots who spotted whales so they could direct the whale catcher boats. At Point Cloates the Nor’-West Whaling Co. Pty Ltd used a Piper Apache aircraft flown by Bob Moore Jnr. to spot whales. This is an aircraft that you wouldn’t want to fly far away from land. As it happens, Sperm Whales track close to shore.
chased by the company in April
John had the ship perform circles
1961 and flown by John Bell.
at speed to flatten the swell and
The fourth was a Cessna 337 float
so was able to take off.
plane VH-RGB, purchased in 1970
Soon Ches was delivered to Alba-
by the company and also flown by
ny Hospital.
John Bell.
It was John Bell who was instru-
It was replaced in 1974 by Cessna
mental in having the whaling sta-
337G VH-TDC which soldiered on
tion turned into a museum.
until whaling was banned in 1978.
Today the John Bell Terminal at
Searching was carried out by two
the Albany Airport is named in
flights per day with the morning
his honour.
flight being the longest. Square grid patterns were flown and when whales were spotted an oil marker was dropped.
The full story and more are on our Old Fliers Group channel. https://www.youtube.com/user/ OldFliersGroup
The chasers were asked to switch on their radio beacons one ship at a time and a more accurate course and time to run were given. The continental shelf is only 35 to 50Km out from shore so the chasers returned to Albany each evening and left their catch at the whaling station. In 1964 John Bell was spotting for
Pilots who flew for Cheynes Beach
the Cheynes 3 boat, 60km out to
Whaling Company included:
sea when he was radioed that the
23
TARMAC TOPICS MAR-MAY 2021
COMMEMORATING 100 YEARS SINCE THE FIRST SCHEDULED AIR SERVICE IN AUSTRALIA
Written by Ray Challen
operate its first scheduled service until November 1922.]
2021 marks an important centenary year in Western Australia, and indeed Australian aviation.
Bristol Tourer used by West Australian Airways in the initial service to Derby
have
by, highly reliable weathweather information) and
Norman Brearley found-
accurate airstrip informa-
ed Western Australian Air-
tion at our fingertips.
ways to provide the first scheduled airmail and pas-
Derby
via
Carnarvon,
Onslow, Roebourne, Port Hedland and Broome. The
first
service
com-
menced on 5 December 1921, albeit it was suspended after an accident and due to inadequately prepared landing grounds. The regular service then properly began in February 1922. [For the record, although established
QANTAS
was
earlier
November 1920, it did not
WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)
we
One hundred years ago,
on a route from Geraldton to
ROYAL AERO CLUB OF
days
magenta lines to navigate er forecasts (and real-time
senger service in Australia
Commemorative stamp of the Bristol Tourer
These
24
in
Looking back to the equipment and conditions of a century ago, the audacity and bravery of Sir Norman and his team of pilots and mechanics are incredible. With the centenary upon us, I searched through my bookshelf and re-read Sir Norman’s short (and woefully understated!) autobiography titled Australian Aviator. A few selected passages illustrate the essence
of
pioneering
aviation. In preparing for the first flight from Perth to Derby
in the summer season, the pilots and crews for the first flight quite sensibly gave attention to a “minimum list” of emergency equipment to be carried in each aircraft, but maybe with different standards of emergency preparedness for airline passengers that we see today: Already our minimum list included such items as a portable telephone [sounds strangely familiar!]… tools, spare parts and durable food rations.
rudders to the new design. But through it all, a pervasive love and passion for aviation: On one occasion, pilot Austin was flying the section from Port Hedland to Broome, and he came down low over the Eighty Mile beach. It was quite a thrill, with the calm Indian Ocean a few yards away to our left, and the sand dunes a little above our height to the right. … When I asked him if he often flew like this he said: “Only along the Eighty Mile Beach, as it
A flyer is included in this issue of Tarmac Topics and further information can be obtained from any of the organising committee. All interested pilots and their passengers are welcome to join the event. We’d like to see as many participants as possible. You can register your interest with the operations staff at RACWA and be kept up to date on planning for the event. Some briefing sessions will be organised as planning progresses.
There was much discussion about
is a perfect landing ground and my
There are other commemorative
carrying drinking water, and it was
passengers and I enjoy the thrill.”
events also in planning, including
decided that, in an emergency, passengers and pilot could survive on water from the radiator.
This is Australia’s aviation heritage and, due to Sir Norman’s involvement in the formation of RACWA,
Then on departure from Gerald-
also the heritage of our Club. The
ton some reflection on the immen-
100th anniversary is deserving of
sity of the endeavour:
our recognition and commemo-
As I climbed to join the other two
ration.
Bristols I hoped fate would deal
And what better way to celebrate
kindly with our particular adven-
the centenary than to go for a fly
ture through the skies to the far
retracing the original route from
North. But as they say, there is no
Geraldton to Derby!
armour against fate.
Currill, Mick Harcourt and Antho-
a lot of experimenting and inge-
ny Buckley are busy planning the
nuity in improving performance of
event. The current plan is for an
aircraft with the addition of what
official start from Geraldton on
we now call a horn balance:
Thursday 16 September and then
much too heavy. We experimented with two pieces of plywood bolted to the top of the rudder so that a portion of the plywood extended ahead of the rudder hinge. This gave a much improved and lighter rudder control. It was a simple device, and after experiments to determine how far to extend the plywood, we re-built all our Bristol
by Australia Post and some formalities on or about 5 December. RACWA is pleased to be assisting Sir Norman’s grandson, Simon Bennison, in organising these related events.
An organising committee of Iain
In those days of course there was
I found the Bristol’s rudder control
potentially a stamp being issued
to journey to Derby over three days with overnight stops at Onslow and Broome and arriving
Sir Norman Brearley
on Saturday 18 September. This is not quite 100 years from the actual first flight on 5 December 1921, but flying conditions are much nicer in September than December. The first week of August will be 100 years since Western Australian Airways was awarded the contract for the service.
25
TARMAC TOPICS MAR-MAY 2021
GOVERNOR’S VISIT Ray Challen introduces Steve Rogers, Old Flier’s Group coordinator, to the Governor.
Written by David Currey
During of tour of the facilities, the Governor was introduced to LAME Toni Weston who has
Governor of Western Austra-
recently received her engine
lia and Club Patron, His Excel-
licence to compliment her air-
lency Kim Beazley AC, paid a
frame licence.
visit to the club on 27 May. After being introduced to Life Members, the Governor listened as Club President, Ray Challen, outlined the hisToni Weston shares a joke with Ray Challen. The Governor was very interested in the club’s commitment to training the next generation of LAMEs.
tory of the club and the many varied activities that the club currently promotes.
their navigation training and the lecture room was full of students planning their next navigation sortie. The Goverers Herman Tsang and Jerry
Norman Brearley, presented
Woong.
the 100th anniversary of Sir Norman’s introduction of Australia’s first passenger and airmail service in Australia from Geraldton to Derby. The Governor thanked Ray and Simon for their presentations and proceeded to give a very interesting account of his aviation experience whilst Minister of Aviation and then Minister of Defence. The Governor then chatted with club members, clearly demon-
WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)
class recently commenced
grandson of Club founder Sir
ed air safari to commemorate
ROYAL AERO CLUB OF
house and college. The A21
nor chatted to ground lectur-
man’s career, and the intend-
Australia’s youngest commercial pilot, Stefan Shircore, discusses his next career move with the Governor.
Governor toured the club-
Mr Simon Bennison, the
a short overview of Sir Nor-
The Governor recounting his aviation experiences
After viewing the hangar, the
strating his extensive knowledge of aviation.
26
Ray Challen presented the Governor with a set of RACWA wings to commemorate the visit.
CONGRATULATIONS
Jan Ende celebrates the anniversary of being a club member for 60 years with Simon Carrel and John Douglas. Jan joined the club on 22 May 1961. Little did he know that he would devote his life to aviation, as both a commercial pilot and a LAME.
2021 AIRBP TOM MILLAR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION Applications are now open for two Tom Mil-
Applications are to be forwarded in PDF format to
lar Scholarships, valued at $5,000 each, to
cbere@royalaeroclubwa.com.au and must be received by
encourage and assist in the advancement of
close of business, Tuesday, 31 August 2021.
students who are undergoing training with
A designated selection panel consisting of the Club’s Chief
the Royal Aero Club of Western Australia.
Executive Officer, Head of Operations and President will
To apply, applicants should write not more than 400 words describing: • Why they wish to learn to fly or pursue a career in aviation; • their aviation experience to date; • future flying aspirations; and • a demonstrated commitment to furthering their flying training with the Club.
evaluate all entries and the winners notified in writing. Presentation of the scholarships will be made at the Club’s Annual Presentation Dinner at Crown Perth on Saturday, 2 October 2021. Terms and Conditions Apply, please contact Coril Bere, for further information.
TARMAC TOPICS Want to advertise in Tarmac Topics? Or have an idea for an article, we would love to her your ideas, please email marketing@royalaeroclubwa.com.au