K21 maintenance
Saturday 5th September provided for another great days gliding at Waikerie. Following the completion of the annual Form 2 of the AS K21, and with Greg Jackson crewing the Tug, the ’21 was test-flown by Craig Vinall and John Hudson, before John had an hour or so in it solo. The conditions started with weak lift, which progresively improved as the temperature climbed. Craig Vinall took of in the ’29 followed soon after by Peter Paine in the Discus and David Lawley in the Boomerang. Peter Robinson spent most of Saturday in the workshop, sanding the wings of his Nimbus, which Mark Morgan had painted earlier in the week.
The opportunity was also taken for annual check-flights for Peter Robinson and Greg Jackson, some “spin” training, and an AEF. A visitor during the day was a 90+ year old gentleman, who was one of TAA’s (Trans Australia Airlines) first Captains. He now lives in Waikerie and enjoys talking aeroplanes. I am sure he will visit again – he enjoyed being made welcome and reminiscing. He has never flown without an engine – I will work on that when he visits again. Around the fire
The conditions eventually died, the glider were put away and the Bar opened. After Dinner in the evening, “Ron’s” burnable pile was lit up – providing some substantial warmth on the outside for those who were present. Greg’s Muscat and Port provided warmth for the inside. We were visited by the local Riverland Police, who were following up reports by a local resident of a major fire – their visit was short and cordial, when it was apparent the appropriate preparations and safety measures had been taken.
John Hudson
