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topic: Raef MacKay (29 articles)

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HGFA BOD

September 7, 2009, 9:06:11 MDT

HGFA BOD

Vote now for new members

John Twomey|Raef Mackay|record

Chris Drake <<vote>> writes:

This week, your HGFA election ballot arrived with your magazine. Here's some Q&A:

  • How to get a fresh new board
    • Simply vote for anyone without any asterisk next to their name.
  • Who counts the votes?
    • The current board counts - however - counting will be scrutinized. Please register how you voted to make sure your ballot doesn't accidentally fall in the HGFA shredder.
  • Is there a recommended voting ticket?
    • The following pilots believe an ideal HGFA board would comprise only experienced and trustworthy members. Their voting recommendations can be accessed here (PDF):
  • Why does the HGFA need a new board?
    • Their misbehavior is far too extensive to list here. They've been accused of hundreds of offences by many dozens of pilots. They're guilty and can't defend their actions, so they've taken the only option left: to attack, abuse, suspend and discipline everyone who gets in their way; and to try and convince members that this is somehow a "sh*t fight" or personality clash. No, it's not. There's 2 sides to every story. The "Board" side is flinging mud and abuse, while everyone else is calmly pointing out the facts behind the growing list of offences they're racking up. Concerned members put up facts - they put up smoke and mirrors.
  • What is the outcome of the current SGM ?

Come to the AGM!

The HGFA's AGM is shaping up to be the most exciting in our sports history. On Saturday 24th October 2009 the GM, Auditor, Treasurer and others will be giving reports, and attempting the impossible: to justify their decisions, or provide evidence for the numerous deceptions they've engaged in during their term. Last years AGM was massive;

  • The insurer stormed out after getting busted poaching the HGFA policy from OAMPS to his own company, then busted again offering insurance coverage that wasn't written in the policy.
  • The president passed motions without even calling for opposing votes. He ignored members, blocked motions, disregarded proxies, invented bogus rules to silence members, and spent much time slandering and shifting blame on past committees.
  • The audience loudly "booed" the board to shut-up when they launched into some disgusting personal abuse against some outspoken members.
  • They had no explanation for a range of things they'd said & done:
    • Why do they need more than $500,000 cash so much that they need a fee rise? - no explanation.
    • Why did they tell us we'd go bankrupt when we've got more than double the cash we'd need to avoid it? - no explanation.
    • Why did they say "costs are rising", but the audited report didn't show those costs rising? - refused to discuss.
  • The Secretary accused members of accessing confidential information (except it was actually public records - oops!)
  • The General Manager, when asked about membership numbers, replied that he had "not looked lately"; incredulously unlikely, given that almost all of the 50 pilots who turned up, did so due to the fee rises, worried about the probable huge loss of members this would cause.
  • Don't bother looking at the minutes - the Secretary chose not to record pretty much everything (and the little he did write didn't match what happened either!)

That was all after just a few months misbehavior - they've got a whole extra year of it under their belts for the next AGM - see you there!

Discuss "HGFA BOD" at the Oz Report forum   link»

HGMA⁣ SGM »

Fri, Jul 24 2009, 11:16:32 pm CDT

The paper ballot goes out soon.

Brian Webb|HGMA|John Twomey|Raef Mackay|USHPA

John Twomey «johntvhpa» writes:

WHY VOTE "YES" TO THE MOTIONS

For the first time in the history of the HGFA, you are being asked to vote in a Special General Meeting to remove members of the HGFA Board. This extraordinary action has been initiated by concerned members, some of whom have been in the HGFA since its inception. It is based on a well founded belief that the actions of the members named represent a clear and present danger to the sport we all love. These members have been consistently associated with the destructive behaviour of the current Board. The following items form part of the case for the removal of these members who are not acting in the best interests of most of the members.

1. Arbitrary and Unjustified Fee Increase

In April 2008, with 24 hours of Board experience, the new Board members decided to increase the fees by 56%. Twelve days prior to that the previous Board, with two years experience, had announced a CPI fee increase. Membership of the HGFA is twice that of BHPA, GFA & RAA; and four times that of the USHPA. Suggestions by members for cost reduction programmes have been ignored.

2. Contravention of the HGFA Constitution

In December 2008 the Board rejected a Requisition for Special General Meeting. The pretext was that the motions were invalid. The Board claimed it had legal advice to support this decision. This legal advice has never been made available to the membership. Requests from various members to view it have been denied. There is no evidence it exists. A subsequent fully constitutional member convened meeting saw all the proposed motions carried, including one calling for the Board to stand down and an election to be held. The current Board remains in direct contravention of the Constitution.

Requests by State Associations for membership lists with contact details have been denied.

Requests for HGFA documents have been denied.

Brian Webb, the only Board member who opposed the fee increase, was sacked using Rule 6.3.

All these Board actions contravene the HGFA Constitution and NSW Associations Incorporation laws.

3. Bringing the HGFA into Disrepute

As reported by the General Manager in the July issue of Soaring Australia, CASA has become concerned at the level of discontent that the current HGFA management style has generated. This represents a direct threat to the future of the sport.

The current Board operates in an environment of secrecy and intimidation. Dissenters are purged and members are afraid to speak out. Motion 09-02 April 2009 Board meeting: the Board will be seeking under freedom of information legislation the identity of a person who made a complaint to CASA. There is no doubt as to why the Board unanimously passed this motion.

The upcoming scheduled elections will not solve the problem as the current Board will remain in control until the new Board takes over in April 2010.

WE NEED TO ACT NOW

The "Yes" Team: Rob Woodward (SA): past HGFA board member & pres SAHGA, self employed conveyancer. Raef Mackay (Qld): pres Canungra HGC, sm business owner, proj & business management. John Twomey (Vic): past sec & pres VHPA, HG/PG pilot, proj development & management Ray Firth (NSW): executive NSWHGA, Safety Officer, HG pilot. Alex Jones (WA): v pres HGAWA, ex HG Instr & SO, self employed, systems engineer.

FOR A SOARING FUTURE VOTE "YES" TO ALL MOTIONS

See August Soaring Australia for our "Future Vision" plan and www.flywa.com.au/sgm for the whole story

Discuss "HGMA⁣ SGM" at the Oz Report forum   link»  

Special General Meeting of the HGFA

January 29, 2009, 7:26:38 AEDT

Special General Meeting of the HGFA

They pass the resolutions

Raef Mackay|video

raefmackay «raefon72» writes:

A Special General Meeting of the Hang Gliding Federation of Australia (HGFA) was held on Saturday 24th January 2009, Canungra RSL Club

Convenor and meeting Chairperson: Raef Mackay
Meeting Opened: 5:30pm
HGFA Members present in person: 23 HGFA
Members present via the open video link: 0
HGFA Proxy votes submitted prior to the meeting: in excess of 200

1. Attendance - the register of proxy voters was circulated to members present to and checked to ensure no duplicate votes would be cast or counted. Members signed the attendance register, including the indication of their current fully-paid financial membership status.

2. Members were eager to discuss the issues and ramifications, but were reminded that the requisition and motions were the only items for business.

3. Motion 1 was read aloud and a vote taken. All members present voted in favor. 82% of the motion 1 proxy votes were also in favor. The motion was carried.

4. Motion 2 was read aloud and a vote taken. 21 members present voted in favor, and 2 voted against. 72% of proxy votes for motion 2 were also in favor. The motion was carried. The meeting closed at 5:35pm.

By majority vote the motions should be carried out

1. That the new 2008-09 HGFA Membership Fee Schedule and the associated Fee Restructure including the abolition of the State Fees be rescinded, and that the HGFA Membership Fees for the 2008-09 financial year be kept the same as the 2007-08 HGFA Fee Schedule, except that the previous HGFA Full Membership Fee component be increased by an amount equal to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Namely a 4.5% increase from $250 plus $11, to $261.

2. That all positions of the HGFA Board be spilled and an election of a new HGFA Board be organised as soon as possible, and no later than 31 December 2008.

Given the lapse of time through the Boards inaction a call for delegates should commence as soon as possible and a date fixed between April 15th to April 30th for sending out of ballot papers to coincide with distribution of the HGFA magazine. The current board may remain as overseers and should enter into no new agreements as they will be liable for any agreement entered.

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Tour Oz with Jonny Durand

December 29, 2008, 1:42:54 pm PST

Tour Oz with Jonny Durand

Raef has setup a tour for pilots who want that World Class touch

Jon "Jonny" Durand jnr|Jon Durand jnr|Raef Mackay|weather

http://goldcoasthgpg.com.au/index_files/Page1069.htm

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

February 15 to 28th

The tour that was held in October was a great success we only lost two days to the weather. We flew three sites Manilla, Killarney and Canungra. We missed out on Rainbow due to the lack of east northeasterlies. But the guys were happy with the time we had. The only difficulty was organizing food that suited everybody’s individual taste.

I have been talking to Jonny Durand and he is interested in helping to run a tour. It is difficult to know weather pilots can afford it due to the current global financial stuff that is going on. So we are just wanting expressions of interest.

The cost would be $1200 this would include site fees, travel, tents and swags, all camping/cooking gear, plates/cutlery.

What is not included is retrieves greater then 40km from the camp site. Food, beer and other personal necessities.

If you want to get in some world class flying and put a smile on your dial then email me at «raefon72» and secure your place. When we get enough interest we will confirm the dates and go flying.

Discuss Tour Oz with Jonny Durand at the Oz Report forum   link»

Canungra Record Challenge

November 26, 2008, 8:17:40 PST

Canungra Record Challenge

Gold, its too expensive and too much in demand

Raef Mackay|record

http://goldcoasthgpg.com.au/index_files/Page398.htm

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

Due to the high cost of gold I wont be able to afford any gold as first prize for The CRC09 I don't want to do cash as it is spent really quickly and wont help anyone in the time of need. I am considering shares in a gold mining company but am unsure on the legalities of it.

If you haven't bought any gold yet for this great depression that is pounding down on top of us I think you are to late. The Perth mint has now suspended sales till January. As you may or may not know Perth Mint was the only mint in the world still supplying bullion but not any more.

Http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/business/story/0,28124,24687337-643,00.html

If you can find a bullion dealer open this weekend grab what he has left or buy some Aus gold miners Monday morning they are still cheap.

Discuss Canungra Record Challenge at the Oz Report forum   link»

Touring in Australia, the last four days

October 21, 2008, 7:50:29 PDT

Touring in Australia

Canungra

PG|Raef Mackay|record|weather

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

http://goldcoasthgpg.com.au/index_files/Page445.htm

Day 11 was a wash out wide spread showers had covered the whole area from the coast to us. Canungra was getting a good soak so we decided to chill out and headed into Warwick for a look around.

Day 12 was looking better the sky was clean when we got up so we were excited for the possibility of a good cross country day. We got up to the South East launch at about 10.30am and set up cycles were coming through and wispy clouds were forming out the front. Phil wasn’t to keen to fly and waited to see how we went. The valley is reasonably narrow and the ridge in front of us wasn’t too far away. It had blued up over launch we waited another 15min a few wispy’s had started so I launched first.

The air was quite rough. I found a strong climb near launch then fell out and found the strong sink tried for a few other bubbles coming through, but they were like bullets. I managed to get back up to ridge height but was over the rough air and headed down wind to the landing paddock. Dave pulled the pin and landed not too much later. After talking to Johnny on the phone we decided to break camp and head for Canungra as he was calling for a record day.

Day 13 looked good from the coast we headed for Beechmont at 8.30. It was the last day of the paraglider comp and we had to be launched before the window opened. I was off by 9.30. It was slightly ridge soar-able with weak thermals coming through. Within 10 minutes there were about fifteen hang gliders in the air all struggling for the little bits of lift coming through. Then the sink cycle came along I was caught in the middle of no where. I tried to move along the ridge, but there was only sink. I headed out with as much height as I could, getting drilled all the way.

I was un-zipping and wondering if I would even make the bomb-out when a little bubble came through. Thank you. I cranked it up as much as possible and started drifting back toward launch.

I saw Courtney and Dave dive in on top of me and start circling. I waited till I got back up to launch height then moved over under where they were climbing. Phil was way down the other end of the ridge and flying toward us. I didn’t like his chances. He got close to it but couldn’t connect and headed for the landing.

We climbed back up over the ridge. I eventually caught up with Courtney and drifted over the back. We didn’t make base, but got close.

I headed for Hinchey’s found weak lift and drifted on. Courtney always amazes me. He flies all over the place. He got really low. It looked like he was going to land then when I looked back he was 500ft above me.

We kept working together and wandered over to the Kerry Valley where we met up with Dave again. My favorite pub was now clearly insight and I could see a glider on the ground just on the edge of town. By this time everything was going up. I searched around and found some sink and landed with Marty Bennett, hoping he had a retrieve. He was in contact with the guys in the bomb-out and we organised for Phil to get back to launch and come and get us. Dave flew out past Boonah T and Courtney made it to Aratula. The paraglider comp got over the range toward Warwick 90km I’m not sure. All in all Johnny was right it was a great day.

Final day 14 was another great day. The wind had backed off and we had to wait until we could see somebody climbing. The thermal was off the hill out in the valley. We flew out to it and climbed straight away. There wasn’t much drift and it wasn’t overly strong, 300 fpm up at the most.

When it broke apart I moved back over the plateau searching for more lift. I could see a glider climbing at Gordo’s Nob and headed for him. As I was getting closer he flew off. I scratched around in what he had but eventually lost it and landed in the valley.

To summarize the tour was a success only losing two days to bad weather. The guys were really happy we had flown new sites and had some really good flights. It was a bit of a shame we didn’t get more epic days but there had been a trough hanging around and making bad weather all over so under the circumstances we did all right. No one got hurt and nothing got broken and heaps of beer got drunk so all in all I was very happy and am looking forward to doing it all again at the Classic which starts this weekend.

Touring in Australia, days nine and ten

Wed, Oct 15 2008, 8:28:05 am PDT

Touring in Australia

photo|Raef Mackay

Killarney

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

http://goldcoasthgpg.com.au/index_files/Page445.htm

We arrived at Killarney and set up camp at the local van park just out of town. Day Nine was awesome. It’s my first time here, so I was unsure of landings, etc. We headed up the hill as early as possible using Andrew Horchner’s directions I had printed from the local web site http://fly-killarney.com.au/.

We found the launches easily enough. Andrew has done a fantastic job on cleaning and clearing the launches, placing wind socks.

We launched from the westerly side good cycles coming through and climbed out. The drift was quite strong pushing me back down a valley toward the southeast. The valleys narrowed and I wasn’t that keen to go down them.

My thermal broke apart about 1000 ft from base or I was too busy taking in the sights. It looked magnificent big cliffs and gorges and no ground on the eastern horizon it must be a big drop off toward the coast. I was too busy trying to find my next climb to get the camera out and take some photos which I am now very disappointed about. But if I had to describe it I’d say “awe-inspiring” or “breathtaking.” I’m undecided. Very green very pretty.

On day ten it had rained overnight probably ½ inch just enough to wet the ground and make it really humid and soft thermals. We waited another hour or so before heading to launch. It was cycling up, however really weak, we set up and launched into a light cycle it was a struggle all broken and light lift. I kept moving along the ridge hoping for a spot on the ground where the air had heated a little more but eventually the ground came up to meet me and I landed beside the road.

Discuss "Touring in Australia, days nine and ten" at the Oz Report forum   link»  

Touring in Australia, days seven and eight

October 14, 2008, 8:04:45 PDT

Touring in Australia

Manilla

PG|Raef Mackay

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

http://goldcoasthgpg.com.au/index_files/Page445.htm

Lucky we stayed. Day seven turned out to be a great adventure. The development had started early. Dave and Phil were keen to get up the hill early and beat the towering cue’s. We couldn’t find a lift up ,so we drove my car up unloaded the gliders and the boys started setting up. I took my car back down the hill and waited for someone to come along so I could get a body ride back up. (I thought it would make retrieving easier in the afternoon.)

By the time I got back up to launch the boys had finished setting up and were checking things. I shoved the battens in as quick as possible. The shadow was getting closer to launch and the paragliders were getting up out the front.

I hooked the harness in and headed for launch. Dave was already there, but was waiting. I pushed past a paraglider getting ready and launched, hit a bubble and climbed above launch.

I told them to get off before the shadow came in. Dave launched and flew too far out then headed over to a shadow. I saw a paraglider climbing near the saddle and sun still there on the ground so went that way. It was quite broken and changing direction. I struggled for 20 min and was ready to throw in the towel when a local Wedgie started climbing 200 m away over a sunny paddock near the little pyramid hill. Thank you little wedgie.

I climbed up to within a couple of hundred feet of base and decided to move on. I did quite well found the next few climbs with only minor wire slapping. Then I got a little ahead of myself and tried to cross the valley as the Borah ridge was starting to overdevelop. I decked it 4km from town.

When I landed I could see my little wedgie mate as he was still boating along the ridge.

Day eight turned out to be quite North. The sky looked better and better but after discussing the conditions at Godfrey's with Bob (Para instructor) we opted to leave and head for Killarney and use the day to travel. From what we've heard we made the right decision.

Touring in Australia, day five

October 11, 2008, 4:21:20 pm PDT

Touring in Australia

Stuck in Manilla

PG|Raef Mackay|scooter tow|weather

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

http://goldcoasthgpg.com.au/index_files/Page445.htm

On day five the thunder turned into isolated storms. We checked the weather maps and contacted a few pilots at home. The weather was worsening there and we decided it would be better to stay here then drive into the worsening conditions. I headed straight for the beer. Phil took the scooter for a ride up to Halls Creek. The day was spent playing guitar and reading books.

Day Six was looking better. Heaps of development. Godfrey said it would be ok just head out to the valleys if we get stuck.

We headed up to the west side. A large cell was dropping rain to the north west. I decided to rig up and try for a sunny patch toward Godfrey’s. Just as I hooked in the rain started falling on launch and I was worried I would be stuck. The gust front had started to hit but luckily it wasn’t too strong so I launched easily and flew around the corner.

The ground was fully shaded and there was no obvious points to go to. I hit a little bubble in the back of the hill but it was quite broken so I glided on and landed at Godfrey’s.

Dave packed up on launch and Phil didn’t get his glider out of the bag.

The sky cleared in the afternoon we could have flown again but went to the pub instead. We’ve checked the weather and it is gradually getting worse at Canungra. The paragliding comp has lost a day or two so we are happy to stay another day or so then head off.

Touring in Australia, continued

October 10, 2008, 9:08:12 MDT

Touring in Australia

Stilla in Manilla

Raef Mackay|scooter tow

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

http://goldcoasthgpg.com.au/index_files/Page445.htm

Having a good time. Day three was ok, a little windy. We waited, but it wouldn’t back off, so we flew for an hour hanging around the western launch until a massive sink cycle came through. Many of us got hammered.

Dave and Matt had a bit of height to stay up and they maintained. Phil and I got caught and we were drilled almost all the way to the bomb-out. At 250 ft agl I finally connected with something going up and managed to climb back up above launch. Phil wasn’t so lucky.

I’m flying a Sonic 190 and am so happy to finally have a glider that loves to climb with me in it. It makes the launches and landings a real treat also. I’ve been out climbing a lot of other pilots since I’ve been flying it and getting up from some pretty low spots. Unfortunately the glide isn’t what I’m used to, but I just have to make an effort to top up at every opportunity.

I landed at Godfrey’s to get the retrieve while Dave and Matt flew back toward town.

On day four the wind backed off and we got a slight easterly flow. I was in a hurry to set up and go as I didn’t want to be doing the Borah shuffle. The guys were pretty good and set up as quickly as possible. Some para’s had launched and climbed out to 5500ft so we knew it was on.

We all got in line and waited on launch it was dead and again I started thinking of the westerly launch, but before I knew it the trees down at the bottom of the hill started to move. Another couple of minutes and we were into it a smooth climb all the way to 5400ft.

I led out. Phil was in the Fun 190 so I tried to mark the next climb for him. Matt and Dave had a bit of trouble finding it but eventually got up. I headed back to town and landed at the caravan park close to the beer, jumped on the scooter and headed back to retrieve. Phil made it half way back, Dave headed for lake Keepit and Matt got hammered landing down from the saddle.

Today’s looking a little stormy. It has been rolling thunder all night so if we don’t fly we’ll use the day to head for Killarney.

Touring in Australia

Wed, Oct 8 2008, 9:31:48 am MDT

Going to Manilla first

PG|Raef Mackay|weather|Dave Seib|Steve Elliot|Godfrey Wenness

Raef Mackay «raefon72» writes:

http://goldcoasthgpg.com.au/index_files/Page445.htm

We have started the tour. We had a little trouble shaking the wives off but its amazing what a big stick can do.

We didn't leave till Monday and a trough was passing over Manilla headed for Canungra. After viewing the weather map we decided on heading straight for Manilla as the trough should have passed when we arrived. We arrived at the pub by 4pm Dave Seib and Steve Elliot were at the bar so we joined them for a quick drink. After a few more it was getting dark so we decided to set up camp at the caravan park and walk back down for dinner.

Apparently a heap of pilots had come up for the long weekend and got stuck on the hill with Northerlies and strong inversions, etc. So we are extremely happy with the clear skies and light winds. There is still a little snow down south and a southerly wind so it has been cold. Can you believe it? I never dreamed I would be cold in Manilla. but there you go.

We signed up with Godfrey and he had a couple of paraglider pilots going up the hill so we all jumped in the basher which makes life so much easier. Phil is flying the Fun 190 and it was his first flight in it.

We discussed the bomb out area and trigger points and launching technique and timing. It was a fresh WSW wind with cycles and we didn’t launch till late, but everyone got off smoothly and had a boat around landing back at Godfrey’s. Today should be better. We have some high cirrus coming over, but I am confident of cues today, we'll keep our fingers crossed.

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Touring Australia

August 7, 2008, 7:53:22 CDT

Touring

You might have noticed the ad for Gold Coast Hang Gliding

Godfrey Wenness|PG|Raef Mackay

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

I have had heaps of queries for the tour just wanting to clarify a few points.

The tour is open to both hang glider and paraglider pilots. We will be deciding on the exact direction of travel each day. Godfrey Wenness wants us down at Manilla early so we will be trying to get down there first. The main reason I don’t want to set an exact path is because I want to stay in front of the storms/instability we get at that time of year. If there are poor conditions at one site we go to the other and stay ahead like that.

The total distance is 585km so heaps of room to avoid the bad stuff. I have got four seats left and am throwing in free glider hire if I have a suitable glider available, first in best dressed scenario.
I have two way radios and phones available but pilots are required to bring their own instruments, harness and helmet.

I will be cooking a camp fire dinner most nights and can cater for vegetarians as well as carnivores we’ll be throwing heaps of shrimps on the barbie and mamoth steaks. Check it out at http://goldcoasthgpg.com.au/index_files/Page445.htm. Also the HGFA are putting out a significant increase in visitors membership so this could be your last opportunity to be able to afford to fly in Australia.

Google Earth view of the route, here.

Discuss Touring at the Oz Report forum   link»

Flytec 6030 audio setting

April 30, 2008, 8:26:57 CDT

6030

Turn down the pitch a bit

Raef Mackay

Flytec 6030|Raef Mackay

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

I would like to say that I tuned my Flytec 6030 really well by adjusting Max. Pitch for the vario audio to 25 m/s. See this display from the FlyChart program:

Here the Max. pitch is 2165 fpm (11 m/s), and I would set it to 4615 fpm (24 m/s).

I have found that it stabilizes the pitch for most climbs up to 200 fpm, but when the 6030 feels a stronger climb it is quite clear which way the strong stuff is. It only wants to increase for the good stuff. The original Max. pitch setting at 5 m/s or 7 m/s was too skittish and it couldn't make up it's mind whether to climb or sink.

I found with a lower setting at 5 m/s the vario would be climbing and sinking constantly and you can't really hear the difference between 2 and 5 m/s but at 25 m/s max pitch it gets a smooth sound and tells you which side of the circle has the best lift. At least that's my hearing.

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The Canungra Record Challenge

April 29, 2008, 7:19:20 MDT

Canungra

A repeat winner

Raef Mackay|record

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

The Canungra Record Challenge has finished and we have a WINNER

Best overall WARREN SIMMONSEN 669.09 pts

Second TREVOR PURCELL 632.52 pts

Third SCOTT TUCKER 526.26 pts.

Full results are at http://goldcoasthgpg.com.au/index_Page398.htm

Thanks go out to all those that entered. The enthusiasms from the entrants has reassured me that it's a great fun competition that is open to all pilots. With more inquiries from international pilots I expect to see a bigger field signing up for next year and a more thorough examination of the rules.

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Repacking your chute

March 18, 2008, 1:10:42 +1100

Repack

Careful as you take in home.

Raef Mackay|scooter tow

raef mackay «raefon72» sends:

Did club meeting/chute repack last night. Purchased a brand new reserve from Phill Hysteck who did a great job fitting it custom and everything was perfect. My last words were it should last me ten years. Tied it onto my scooter and drove home. Half way home I looked rear vision mirror noticed it slightly crooked, stopped. Got off for closer look, smoke started pouring out. It had fallen onto the exhaust and melted through, like an internal fire.

Hanging out in Mudgeeraba (means swamp)

Fri, Feb 15 2008, 12:38:58 pm MST

Mudgeeraba

Close to Beechmont and Mt. Tamborine

Belinda Boulter|Jon "Jonny" Durand jnr|Judy Durand|Raef Mackay

http://goldcoasthgpg.com.au

We are staying in a room at Raef's house (one of three available for rental), which is not far from the launch sites near Canungra. We are up from the Gold Coast (as you can see using the link above) and down a bit from Beechmont and Mt. Tamborine. It's about half an hour to Beechmont and similar to Mt. Tamborine.

You launch from Beechmont in south east or east south east conditions, and Mt. Tamborine when there is a west component. Looks like it is on for the next three days, with the hot days being Sunday and Monday. Jonny just flew back from New Zealand, missing the last day of the Nationals as it looked bad for the rain there and it looks good for flying at Beechmont. He said be ready to be at launch at 7:30 AM on Saturday. Be ready to go big distances on any of the three days.

We're enjoying our stay here visiting with Lee and Kathy as well as Judy Durand. John's got a new heavy duty massage chair (for his birthday). After pounding in hard the other day in the long grass, he can use it. We had a great time in it.

We are enjoying our stay with Raef and Tracy (his wife), with only a wireless server missing (we plug into the ADSL server) and Belinda and I have to take turns. Raef is great cook (his mother bought a restaurant half a year ago) as well as being the president of the Cunangra Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club.

If you are coming to the Gold Coast and want to go hang gliding, check in with Raef and stay at his place if you like. See the URL above.

Discuss "Hanging out in Mudgeeraba (means swamp)" at the Oz Report forum   link»  

Scoring Guide For Canungra Record Challenge

September 12, 2007, 10:02:02 MDT

CRC

Rule number 1 - have fun, fly safe.

John Smith|Raef Mackay|record

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

Version 2, Sept. 9, 2007

This scoring guide is a guide only and will be upgraded and improved without prior notice with the first intentions for Safety, Club Rules, Airspace, Landowner and Community rights and obligations.

Canungra Record Challenge (CRC). The challenge has been conceived with the intention of joining both competition flight and record flights open to both HG & PG held at CHGC launch sites only. All entrants must adhere to all club rules and pilot code of conduct as outlined on the CHGC website.

Entrants- To be an entrant of the Canungra Record Challenge (CRC) the pilot must have completed the CRC waiver forms and have paid site fees (as shown current on CHGC website) and be a current member of the HGFA.

Rules- The challenge will rely upon the HGFA Competitions Manual Edition 6.5 where practical.

Launch Sites. Flights will only be validated if launched from CHGC sites.

Pilot Task Forms- Any flight using a turn point must be declared and witnessed before commencement of the flight. Multiple task forms can be prepared prior to flights. Pilots will be scored from the task form using gps as a confirmation only. Pre determined tasks will be provided to all pilots, with the option of setting your own tasks.

GPS Scoring- All entrants wanting to claim a flight for scoring must forward their track log in " igc and kml (for google earth)" format in a zipped folder, saved as pilot number first, surname second, date third (year, month, day ), flight category last. A pilot task form must be accompanied with every track log and where required be witnessed by a fellow pilot. Where possible the CRC scoring official will also download and record flights directly from the entrants GPS. The entrant is requested to keep their own backup copy and if required supply cabling for downloads.

Example- John Smith pilot number 23 flew a free distance flight on the 4/3/06. If john wants to claim his flight for scoring he must download his track log and he would save it as 23smith060304freedist.igc.

Points System- Given that each task has its unique challenges points will reflect the pilot's accomplishment. Only one flight per task will be awarded points. This does not limit the flight being used for more then one task. Example- open distance flight with declared goal 125 km, height gain of 9000 ft, duration 8 hrs could be scored for tasks 1, 2, 6 & 7. If the pilot improves on one of the tasks throughout the CRC he can submit his new flight without affecting the others. Example Free distance 150 km height gain of 10000 ft. New scores for tasks 1 & 7, the pilot's previous points will be replaced by the new points.

1) Free Distance. 1 point per km. The flight shall be measured from the launch position to the landing position or furthest distance where there has been a return to landing. Pilots are urged to mark enter their furthest points.

2) Open Distance to Declared Goal. 1.5 points per km. The pilot must have declared the goal on a witnessed Pilot Task Form before the flight for the flight to be validated.

3) Out & Return. 2 points per km. The pilot must have declared the turn point & goal on a witnessed Pilot Task Form before the flight for the flight to be validated.

4) Triangle. 3 points per km. The pilot must have declared both turn poits & goal on a witnessed Pilot Task Form before the flight for the flight to be validated.

5) Free Distance with turn point. 1.5 points per km. The pilot must have declared the turn point on a witnessed Pilot Task Form before the flight for the flight to be validated. The new heading is infinite line must be greater than 20 degrees from launch to first turn point. First distance to tp 1 minimum 25% of total distance.

6) Flight Duration. 1 point per 10min block. The pilot must rely only upon the gps for time measurement from actual launch to actual landing.

7) Gain of height. 1 point per 30 m/ amsl. Where as a pilot does not have a downloadable barograph or 3d gps format the pilot may have another pilot witness the height gain, where as the two pilots are at the same height only. The witnessed flight must be claimed within 24 hours with a contact phone number of the said witness.

Penalty points.

A) Where a pilot breeches CHGC rules or regulations minimum 25 point deduct max 150 point deduct.

B) Where a breech of air space minimum 25 point deduct maximum 250 point deduct.

C) Where a pilot breeches HGFA comp manual rules regulations minimum 25 point deduct maximum 200 point deduct.

Winning. The pilot with the highest score at the end of the CRC will be awarded best overall.

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Canungra Record Challenge 2008

September 12, 2007, 10:01:03 MDT

CRC

2nd Feb to 29th Apr 2008

PG|Raef Mackay|record|weather

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

The Canungra Record Challenge (CRC) brings both competition and record flying together. Set your own tasks, fly the days you like and lift your flying standard whilst competing against your fellow pilots.

Scoring will be open for two & half months to allow for the best weather opportunities and will be open to all pilots, hang gliding and paragliding, with inland experience. The CRC gives the entrants an opportunity to achieve flights that satisfy on a personal level without the confines of predetermined tasks and launch times. Held at an optimum time of year, the dates have been chosen to reflect the previous site record of 496km by John Durand Jr on March 18th, 2005.

Dates Locations:

The Challenge will be open for GPS scoring from 2nd Feb and conclude 29th Apr 2008. Briefing and updates will be done via email, downloads via gps or email.

Cost :

A one-off $40 scoring fee applies to all entrants wanting to be scored. Site fees if required are $40 for 3 weeks or as shown on CHGC website. http://www.chgc.asn.au/

Courses and Tasks :

Seven different records will be scored and pilots can enter their best flight tracks for. Pre determined tasks will be provided with the option of setting your own tasks.

1) Straight distance.
2) Straight distance to declared goal.
3) Out and return over distance and time.
4) Open distance with a turn point.
5) Triangle over distance and time.
6) Gain of height.
7) Flight duration.

Awards: The Canungra Nugget Best Over All Trophy will be awarded. The trophy features a ½ oz gold nugget coin. Valued at $500 aud.

Entry will be confirmed via return email subject “Canungra Record Challenge entry form” at «raefon72» with payment of fees on signup. First day sausage sizzle at 8:00 AM park next to Canungra Hotel at Canungra. Sign ups on the hill accepted through out the challenge.

FAI observers will be available if required throughout the challenge. Accommodation / Retrieve packages available at

http://www.goldcoasthgpg.bigpondhosting.com/

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Canungra Record Challenge

April 24, 2007, 7:06:32 pm EDT

Canungra

A wee bit of bad weather at first.

Raef Mackay|record|weather

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

Well the Canungra Record Challenge has finished and turned out to be great fun. The bad weather from Manilla slowed us down as well and we lost a few weeks however the sun came out and the sky around Canungra was once again filled with gliders.

It wasn't easy getting the big days some pilots got over the 100km a few times but the air on the other side of the range shut them down.

Our best overall pilot was Warren Simmonsen, who applied himself early and was prepared for the competition, with pre determined tasks. Our runners up were Trevor Purcel second place. Brandon Odonell Third, Brandon was our only para glider entrant and managed to get away from the crowd with a 130km flight past Towoomba.

In all I've had good feed back from pilots stating they haven't done a comp that requires so many triangles and out returns as these are the biggest point scorers and I am expecting a bigger crowd next year.

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Canungra Record Challenge

Wed, Mar 21 2007, 10:12:55 am EDT

Canungra

It's so green out here in Queensland

PG|Raef Mackay|record|weather

Raef Mackay «raefon72» writes:

The weather has improved. We have been overshadowed by the weather from Manilla but now the sun has come out and the birds are in full flight. This weekend past has shown some promise of things to come with 127km flights for several of the entrants. Some of the paragliders also got over a 100km.

There is still moisture around from the rain and tambourine has been pumping with some nice cu's. Our lead pilot, Warren Simmonsen, has been the first to complete each section of the challenge and is now working hard at improving the flights he has. There are a few weeks remaining with Sat 14 April being the last scorable day, so its still undecided. Easter weekend is around the corner which should help the cause with extra flying days some of the entrants are planning extra time off work to make the most of it.

UNKNOWN

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Canungra Challenge

February 28, 2007, 9:24:14 CST

Canungra

See who can go the furthest

Raef Mackay

Jon "Jonny" Durand jnr|Raef Mackay

Jon "Jonny" Durand jnr|Raef Mackay

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

The Challenge has gotten off to a great start, with some rain on the first two days. On the weekend the clouds parted giving the boys a couple of good days with a 152km open dist flight north west of launch by Trevor Purcell.

Monday turned it on for Warren Simmenson who managed to score a free dist with turnpoint of 66km and declared goal of 50.63km.

Jonny has been working with Lee training new pilots and hasn't been able to score a day yet, however I have a feeling he is planning his moves and waiting to take a swipe at the lead.

We still have another seven weeks of flying so we expect to see some awesome flights in that time. With the local pilots flying all the good days it's a great opportunity for visiting pilots to come and have a fly and visit the area. They may even get a P.B.

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The final results from the NSW Titles

February 14, 2007, 7:03:07 EST

Results

Updated

Barry Bateman|Davis Straub|Raef Mackay

Barry Bateman|Davis Straub|Jon "Jonny" Durand jnr|Raef Mackay

Barry Bateman|Davis Straub|Jon "Jonny" Durand jnr|Raef Mackay

PlaceNameGliderTotal
1DURAND Jonny Moyes Litespeed RS3.55374
2BADER Lucas Moyes Litespeed RS 44659
3STRAUB Davis Moyes Litespeed RS 44045
4WYNNE Bruce Moyes Litespeed S43771
5PATON Len Moyes Litespeed RS 43770
6TRIVELATO Alex Moyes Litespeed RS 43768
7TUNBRIDGE Cameron Airborne C4-143765
8GARCIA Pedro Aeros Combat3461
9SIMONSEN Warren Airborne C4-143272
10BARRETT Scott Airborne C4-13.53178
11SCHRODER Phil Airborne C4-133133
12DANIEL Alan Airborne C4-133089
13GARDNER Don Airborne C4-13V62997
14BARTON Tony Airborne C4-13.52914
15BRABY Brian Airborne C4-13.52888
16DUNCAN Ian Moyes Litespeed S42820
17CARSWELL Andrew Airborne C4-132554
18HANSEN Dustan Airborne Climax2551
19COLBEY Matt Airborne C4-132230
20HEFFER Dick Moyes Litespeed 42081
21HERMAN Gary Airborne C4-131834
22EBBELING Peter Airborne C4-141796
23THOMPSON Darren Airborne C4-13.51792
24GILES Al Airborne C2-141745
25BARRY Paul Airborne C2-141705
26WARD Geoffrey Moyes Litespeed 41595
27BATEMAN Barry Moyes Litespeed 41561
28BOND Alan Moyes Litespeed S 51540
29RAABE Peter Moyes Litespeed 41469
30BRAMWELL-DAVIS Alasdair Airborne Sting1233
31CAMERON David Moyes Litespeed S41216
32BLAIN John Airborne Sting1144
33CRAGO James Airborne Sting1065
34MCCULLOCH Ray Moyes Litespeed 51058
35CLARKE Matt Moyes Litesport 41045
36HANISCH Markus Seedwings Viagro788
37GILBERT Mark Moyes Litesport 4767
38VAN DER WALLE Danny Airborne Shark734
39EVANS Rick Airborne Sting595
40SCHATZMANN Rolf Airborne C4-13584
41MACKAY Raef Moyes Litesport 4515
42LEEMING David Airborne Climax501

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Canungra Record Challenge 2007

December 11, 2006, 8:59:23 PST

Canungra

16 Feb to 14 Apr 2007

PG|Raef Mackay|record|weather

Jon "Jonny" Durand jnr|PG|Raef Mackay|record|weather

Jon "Jonny" Durand jnr|PG|Raef Mackay|record|weather

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

The Canungra Record Challenge (CRC) brings both competition and record flying together. Set your own tasks, fly the days you like and lift your flying standard whilst competing against your fellow pilots.



Scoring will be open for two months to allow for the best weather opportunities and will be open to all pilots, hang glider and paraglider, with inland experience. The CRC gives the entrants an opportunity to achieve flights that satisfy on a personal level without the confines of predetermined tasks and launch times. Held at an optimum time of year, the dates have been chosen to reflect the current hang gliding site record of 496km by John Durand Jr on 18/3/05.

Dates Locations:

The Challenge will be open for GPS scoring from 16th Feb and conclude 14th Apr 2007. Briefing and updates will be done via email, downloads via gps or email.

Cost : A one-off $30 scoring fee applies to all entrants wanting to be scored. Site fees if required are $40 for 3 weeks or as shown on CHGC website. http://www.chgc.asn.au/

Courses and Tasks : Seven different records will be scored and pilots can enter their best flight tracks for.

1) Straight distance.

2) Straight distance to declared goal.

3) Out and return over distance and time.

4) Open distance with a turn point.

5) Triangle over distance and time.

6) Gain of height.

7) Flight duration.

Awards: The Canungra Nugget Best Over All Trophy will be awarded in both the hang glider and paraglider fields. The trophy features a ½ oz gold nugget coin.

Entry will be confirmed via return email subject “Canungra Record Challenge entry form” at «raefon72» with payment of fees on signup. First day sausage sizzle at 8.30 am park next to Canungra Hotel at Canungra.

FAI observers will be available if required throughout the challenge. Accommodation / Retrieve packages available at

http://www.goldcoasthgpg.bigpondhosting.com/

Jonny set a new site record (well, close by, Beechmont), but only a few kilometers more, last week - 500 km.

Discuss Canungra at the Oz Report forum

Canungra Classic »

June 1, 2006, 10:31:51 EDT

Canungra

Canungra Classic has Indy fever.

Raef Mackay

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

The Canungra Classic Sat 21 Oct to Sat 28 Oct 2006

The dates for this year have been moved back to coincide with Indy weekend (which starts on the Thursday before the first weekend of the Classic). We expect the flying to be more challenging later in Oct giving more unstable days. Take extra time off work, fly the Canungra Classic and see the fast cars at Indy races.

This year promises to be even better with the headquarters to be based at Canungra's picturesue show grounds, creating an open friendly environment with BBQ, campfires and a layback Australian style. Some catering will be provided for breakfast and dinners. The Gold Coast comes alive for Indy great night time events, this is the first comp of the season for OZ and is a must for the young at heart.

Check out the club website for more details: http://www.chgc.asn.au/comps.html

- Registration Friday the 20 (not Saturday morning).

- Entry fee $180 ($210 if paid after August the 31st) + $40 site fees. GPS mandatory.

- Intermediate with inland experience.

- Payment info contact Regan at «rkowald»

If you can't make the comp but still want the Oz experience check out http://www.goldcoasthgpg.bigpondhosting.com

Indy web address http://www.indy.com.au/gettingthere/index.htm

The school holidays should have finished the week or two before the start date. Big John believes it will free up pilots to have a separate holiday without the guilt of family commitments hopefully a few more locals will fly.

Don't forget the half naked women at Indy, I know my wife hates to look.

I'm trying to talk little john into doing a cross country clinic the week before the classic also.

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Canungra Record Challenge 2006

April 6, 2006, 10:00:20 pm EDT

Canugra

Secret Tasks

Raef Mackay|record|weather

Raef Mackay «raefon72» writes:

The Challenge has concluded with Trevor Purcell taking out the best overall Canungra Nugget trophy (with 1 oz gold valued at $826 Aust). He had a bit of trouble keeping in front of the field but managed to snatch the lead at the end with an open dist with turn point of 91.38km giving him a total of 311 points followed by Speedy (Bernard) with 247 points and then Rod Stead with 143.

Even though the north coast was battered by cyclone Larry we still had some nice days. The pilots got into the spirit of things with tactical top secret task forms and the use of Google earth to create virtual waypoints a little further then the previous flight.

It turned out to be a great time for visiting pilots who passed through having local pilots on the hill just about every flyable day and a cross country guide on the good days. The surf has been pumping and sun bathing on the beach has been filling the gaps of the no-fly days, so there hasn’t been a dull moment throughout the Challenge.

Next year the entry fee will be reduced to $30 with two half nugget trophies, one each for Hg & Pg and the time extended to 8 weeks with the possibility of a two week extension for improved weather. All in all the inaugural Canungra Record Challenge was a great success producing many PB’s and achieving it‘s aim of filling the sky with pilots. Proudly Supported By http://www.goldcoasthgpg.bigpondhosting.com/

Flights: Best Free dist turnpoint - Trevor, best declared goal speedy - 180306, and best open dist - Trevor 060312.

1) Free Distance. 1 point per km. The flight shall be measured from the launch position to the landing position or furthest distance where there has been a return to landing. Pilots are urged to mark enter their furthest points.

2) Open Distance to Declared Goal. 1.5 points per km. The pilot must have declared the goal on a witnessed Pilot Task Form before the flight for the flight to be validated.

3) Out & Return. 2 points per km. The pilot must have declared the turnpoint & goal on a witnessed Pilot Task Form before the flight for the flight to be validated.

4) Triangle 3 points per km. The pilot must have declared both turnpoints & goal on a witnessed Pilot Task Form before the flight for the flight to be validated.

5) Free Distance with turnpoint. 1.5 points per km. The pilot must have declared the turn point on a witnessed Pilot Task Form before the flight for the flight to be validated. The new heading is infinite line must be greater than 20 degrees from launch to first turn point.

6) Flight Duration. 1 point per 10min block. The pilot must rely only upon the gps for time measurement from actual launch to actual landing.

7) Gain of height. 1 point per 30 m/ asl. Where as a pilot does not have a downloadable barograph or 3d gps format the pilot may have another pilot witness the height gain, where as the two pilots are at the same height only. The witnessed flight must be claimed within 24 hours with a contact phone number of the said witness.

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Canungra Record Challenge

December 17, 2005, 4:18:56 pm PST

Canungra

It's time to set records

calendar|PG|Raef Mackay|record

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

A new Competition has been launched on the Australian hang gliding and paragliding calendar - The Canungra Record Challenge.

Held at Australia's No 1 tourist destination, the Gold Coast, the competition throws out the Challenge to all pilots come and have a crack at our local records including Jon Jr's 496km flight set earlier this year from Beechmont. We only have access to foot launching so some pilots will have to make sure they still know how to run hard.

The Gold Coast is world renowned for its superb surf beaches, perfect climate, stunning landscapes, 5 star resorts and thriving night life. So when you are not breaking our records or your personal best you can enjoy the best holiday experience Australia has to offer.

Fantastic accommodation and retrieve package deals can be booked by visiting http://www.goldcoasthgpg.bigpondhosting.com/. Check out the local club site at http://www.chgc.asn.au/.



Click above for details. Click here for a bigger version of the above image. Click here for a map with Canungra waypoints.

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Canugra Classic »

Thu, Aug 4 2005, 4:00:01 am EDT

In Oz at the end of September.

PG|Raef Mackay|weather

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

The Canungra Classic (hang gliding) and Cannungra Cup (paragliding) are fast approaching. Last year's Classic was a blast with only two days lost to inclement weather. This year promises to be even better with the headquarters to be based at Canungra's picturesque show grounds, creating an open friendly environment with BBQ, campfires and a layback Australian style.

http://www.chgc.asn.au/comps.html

The Canungra Classic 24th September - 1st October 2005

- Registration Friday the 23rd (not Saturday morning).

- Entry fee $180 ($210 if paid after August the 31st) + $40 site fees. GPS mandatory.

- Intermediate with inland experience.

- Cheques/Money Order made out to "Classic Account CHGC" Jon Durand, 32A Jardine Road, Beechmont 4211. Any registration enquiries to 07 55333611 or email «canungrahg»  Paragliders, floaters and intermediates welcome.

The Canungra Cup (Queensland Paragliding Championships) 8th - 15th October 2005 inclusive is currently over subscribed . There will be no reserve days and no scheduled rest days.

There will be a welcome reception at the competition headquarters on Friday 7th October from 18.00 to 20.30 where you will also have an opportunity to pickup pilot packs, obtain GPS downloads etc. The first briefing will be on Saturday 8th October at the competition headquarters (RSL club) starting at 08.00. If you can't make the comps but still want the OZ experience check out http://www.goldcoasthgpg.bigpondhosting.com

Discuss Canungra Classic at the Oz Report forum

Oz Flying

Sat, Apr 23 2005, 5:30:05 pm EDT

And accommodations on the Gold Coast.

Raef Mackay

raef mackay «raefon72» writes:

I am living at 68 third Ave palm beach and am a dedicated pilot, my brother has just moved out and his room is available $40 per night includes Australian cooked dinner. Your friends or fiends of your friends are more than welcome to enquire, I fly every available day usually weekends some week days. I am happy to take them to other close sites: Rainbow beech, Byron Bay and our local ones.

Usual day is made up of:
5am rise and shine
6. 30 am surfs up, walk along the beach
9. 30 am go flying
5pm start drinking
8. 30 to 9.30 bed time

any further enquiries please feel free to contact raef at «raefon72».

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