Emma Pritchard

All that is needed is clear skies, plenty of sunshine, hopefully no windy conditions, and a good crowd attendance, and the Grafton Model Aircraft Club’s weekend of radio-controlled model aircraft flying at their field in Tancreds Lane, Clarenza, will be scheduled for a successful take off on October 14 and 15.

Close to 50 skilled pilots from across NSW and South East Queensland are expected to arrive in the Clarence Valley for the Fun Fly event to showcase their model aircrafts and demonstrate their precision, acrobatics, and agility in the air, with some participants expected to bring two or more model aircrafts along for the occasion.

Secretary of the Grafton Model Aircraft Club, Daryl Woolfe said everything from small, $30 model aircrafts through to larger, more expensive model aircrafts valued between $20000 and $25000 will be flown during the two-day event, with spectators invited to grab their hats, sunscreen, sunglasses and a few picnic rugs and chairs, and head out to watch the proceedings.

“It should be a great weekend,” he promised.

“The best time to come on both days will be around 8am, and providing the weather is good, there will be plenty of model aircrafts flying.

“It’ll be a great chance for pilots to showcase their model aircrafts, and I’m sure everyone who comes along to watch will have a good time.

“Entry is free, and there will also be a sausage sizzle and cold drinks available.

“I know a lot of people are looking forward to it, and I just hope we can welcome a good crowd.”

The wide-open spaces of Tancreds Lane will provide the perfect setting for some of the larger model aircrafts to become airborne, and the event also coincides with the club’s 10th anniversary of flying at the location.

Mr Woolfe said upwards of six model aircrafts will be flown at the same time, creating an amazing sight for spectators.

A number of model aircrafts including a beautiful 3.4m long Avro Lancaster owned by Mr Woolfe will also be on static display.

“There will be something for everyone to enjoy,” Mr Woolfe said.

“We want to encourage people to come out, have a look, and if they’d like to have a go at flying some of the model aircrafts depending on time and conditions, they’ll be welcome to do so.”

Flying is scheduled to commence from 9am on both days with the action expected to start winding down early to mid-afternoon.

Mr Woolfe said membership forms and information packages will also be available for anyone interested in joining the Grafton Model Aircraft Club.