Newsletter 440 – June 2021

Robert Knox’s (SMFC) tribute to RAAF 78 SQN Pilot, Gordon White. Read more on Rob’s customised models on Page 38 Photo via Robert Knox

Newsletter 440 – June 2021

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Contents Contents ....................................................................................................................................................... 2

Diary Notes ................................................................................................................................................... 3

Contacts ........................................................................................................................................................ 3

Dave Lewis – MAAA Service Medallion ........................................................................................................ 4

General Bi-Monthly Management Committee Meeting and 2021 Annual General Meeting Minutes ....... 6

Aeromodellers NSW 2021 Calendar ........................................................................................................... 27

Club News & General Interest .................................................................................................................... 29

Safety Matters ......................................................................................................................................... 29

The Tiger Story ........................................................................................................................................ 30

Silver Wings Awards - Shoalhaven Model Flyers Club ............................................................................ 36

Customised Tribute Scale Models ........................................................................................................... 37

GMAC 2021 Wings and Wheels Day Sunday 20th June ........................................................................... 49

Event Updates ............................................................................................................................................ 51

1st West Wyalong National Championships Bulletin #3 - 7th–14th July 2021 ......................................... 51

Pylon Racing at Pitt Town – 8 August 2021 ............................................................................................ 52

Warialda Fun-Fly 2021 – 28th-29th August 2021 ..................................................................................... 53

Coota Scale Fest – 1st-4th October 2021 .................................................................................................. 54

Scale Rally & Swap/Sell – 6th-7th November 2021 .................................................................................. 55

Invitational Scale classic Downunder - 10th–14th November 2021 ........................................................ 56

Wanted ....................................................................................................................................................... 57

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Diary Notes Next Aeromodellers NSW Bi-Monthly Management Committee Meeting. Friday 13th August 2021, 7:30pm Internet via ZOOM – instructions will be advised to Club Execs via bulletin.

Following Aeromodellers NSW Bi-Monthly Management Committee Meeting. Friday 8th October 2021, 7:30pm Internet via ZOOM – instructions will be advised to Club Execs via bulletin. Newsletter #441 (July 2021) deadline for submissions: Friday 23rd July 2021.

Contacts President

Tim Nolan [email protected] 0412 173 440

Vice Pres

David Kennedy [email protected]

Secretary

Clive Weatherhead [email protected] c/o Battery Business Unit 14, 3 Vuko Place Warriewood NSW 2102

0404 826 880

Treasurer/ State Field Officer

Steve Norrie [email protected] 0418 874 740

Registrar

David Lewis [email protected] PO Box 7291, SOUTH PENRITH 2750

02 4736 2611 0439 264 220

Newsletter Editor

Rob Masters [email protected]

0418 160 295

Safety Officer

Daryl Woolfe [email protected]

CFI

Brendan Tucker [email protected] 0409 443 495

Join us on Facebook

Please forward any changes of mail or email address together with your AUS Number directly to the Registrar

mailto:[email protected]







https://www.facebook.com/groups/884351638273103/

http://www.nsw.aeromodellers.org.au

https://www.facebook.com/groups/884351638273103/

http://www.nsw.aeromodellers.org.au/

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Dave Lewis – MAAA Service Medallion

MAAA / ANSW President Tim Nolan presenting Dave Lewis with the MAAA Service Medallion for his

efforts over many years as the Registrar for ANSW. Dave Lewis’ aeromodelling career began like many of us back in his teens when he “taught himself” after a fashion to fly two channel gliders. As with most of us he then discovered girls, a wife and a family (in that order) and his interest in aeromodelling languished. Fast forward to early nineties and having seen the light the family had moved to Sydney. Julie, Dave’s wife decided that he needed a hobby and with a dim recollection of his previous interests, gently gave him the nudge that she has probably regretted many times since. Dave didn’t need much encouragement and having seen model aircraft flying from the University of Western Sydney land behind the Cobham Remand Centre, presented himself at the Werrington Park Model Aircraft club (WPMAC), beginning an association that has lasted to this day and seen him as President and where he is currently serving as Secretary. But for the poor unfortunate WPMAC Instructor who undertook to “teach” him to fly, he would probably have remained a weekend flyer or even have eventually thrown it all in. Enter Mike Robinson, accomplished aeromodeller, long-time Secretary of RCAS/MASNSW and ex-Navy CPO. Mike was well known for his cantankerousness and take no prisoners demeanour and Dave was suitably intimidated (it’s not often that Dave feels unable to speak his mind) and so after lecturing him about “we do it my way or you can @%#&” off, he launched the trainer down the runway. After explaining the procedures

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over a few circuits, he handed over the TX and without thinking, Dave proceeded to fly the aircraft around the block in a reasonably controlled fashion – like riding a bike his previous glider flying just came back to him. “Give it back to me” says Mike, quickly followed by “Why the hell didn’t you say you could already fly”. Dave, for once in his life lost for words replied, “I didn’t know I could, and anyway, you didn’t ask”. Back in the pits, Mike came on strong and Dave, having had enough by this time went face to face with him. Being an Army Reservist, he let fly with “what is it with you bad tempered Navy %*&@s, worse than any RSM I ever had” which took the wind right out of Mike’s sails and they remained firm friends from that point onwards, although Dave’s piloting never did improve much. Enough of the anecdotes. From the moment Dave got involved, it was all about the hobby/sport and he has involved himself 100%. Mike was struggling with cancer and finding the work required as Secretary of RCAS very taxing. Dave started going to the monthly business meetings to support him and it is rare that he has missed a meeting since; from the RCAS days through MASNSW and more recently, Aeromodellers NSW. After Mike and Leah moved up to Macksville, Dave and Julie put them up monthly when they came down to Sydney for Mike’s treatment and Dave assisted him in taking the minutes at the RCAS/MASNSW business meetings and writing them up. In 2010 failing health forced Mike to give it away and as it happened it was an “all out, all change” on the MASNSW Committee. Dave became the MASNSW Registrar, a position that he still holds today. Dave’s knowledge regarding who is who in NSW aeromodelling, exactly where every one of the 80 odd Clubs in NSW is located and who holds committee positions is legend. For a person that generally doesn’t suffer fools, he has the patience of Job and gives up countless hours on the phone answering queries, providing advice and when it is not the advice that the member wants, explaining the why, where and how of it. Every single weekday, his route home from work without fail is via the Aeromodellers NSW post office box and it is not often empty – then, once home, that correspondence is dwarfed by what shows up in the Registrar’s email inbox. Dave was involved and provided both positive and (constructively) negative feedback during the development and implementation of the MAAA National online database. Once implemented he used his skills as a workplace trainer and assessor to develop a series of videos aimed at club executives demonstrating the various processes. At the club level, Dave is a very active member of WPMAC and up until they lost their field (forcing the members to apply for associate membership at other clubs) he was the self-imposed King of the Mower. The club chuck wagon trailer lives at Dave’s place and is a familiar fixture tacked to the back of his car every weekend. He’s outfitted it with a gas ring and oven at his own cost and up until the restrictions of COVID regularly shouted all and sundry to tea, coffee and party pies and sausage rolls irrespective of the club you were from – if you were there, you were welcome. With all that he has done for individuals and the hobby/sport, particularly through RCAS/MASNSW/Aeromodellers NSW and MAAA over the last almost 30 years (leaving precious little time to improve on his own “adequate” flying skills) Dave is to be congratulated on this well-deserved MAAA Service Medallion.

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General Bi-Monthly Management Committee Meeting

and 2021 Annual General Meeting

Minutes Aeromodellers NSW Inc

Venue: Zoom Video Conference

Friday 11th June 2020

Bi-monthly meeting Meeting Opened : 7:30 p.m. Chairman: Tim Nolan Attendees in person: None Attendees via Zoom online: Dave Lewis – Coota, Clive Weatherhead – WRCS, Greg Hoy – CMAC,

Rob Masters – WPMAC, Tim Nolan – ROW (Chairman), Steve Norrie – NSW Scale, Tim Ingham – WRCS, Jeremy Randle – NSW Pylon, David Kennedy – SSSME, Daryl Woolfe – GMAC, George Atkinson – WRCS, Brendan Tucker – CAA, John Armarego – TSAANSW, Tom Tobin – RFC, Geoff Jones – SNMAC, Stephen Lange – PRCAC, Rick Collis - GAC, Terry Goddard - GMAC, Bruce Thrift – CVRCMAC, Dave Horan – COMSOA, Zak Kiternas – CKS, Trevor Smith – MMSWC, Chris Orfanos – ROW

Visitors: None Apologies: Shane McMillan - SHMAC Minutes: Motion: That the minutes of the Bi-Monthly meeting held on Friday 9th April 2021 by Zoom

Meeting as published in Newsletter 438, April 2021, and the financials for February and March distributed in email bulletin 21 2020/21 be accepted as a true and correct record of that meeting.

Moved: CKS Seconded: SSSME Carried

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Business Arising:

1. Use of technology for meetings will be covered under a proposal in the AGM. Meeting Adjourned: 7:32 pm The Chairman adjourned the bi-monthly meeting to allow the Annual General Meeting to take place.

Annual General Meeting Meeting Opened : 7:32pm Chairman: Tim Nolan Attendees: Same as June 2021 Bi-monthly meeting Minutes: Motion: That the minutes of the 2020 Annual General Meeting held by Zoom

Videoconference on Friday 12th June 2020 as published in Newsletter 429 (June 2020) be accepted as a true and correct record of that meeting.

That the Audited Financial reports from the 2020 Annual General Meeting as published by

Bulletin in July 2020 be accepted. Moved: SSSME Seconded: WPMAC Carried Yes Business Arising from 2020 AGM:

Nil.

Reports

Treasurer Steve Norrie The Treasurer presented the financial overview and Auditor’s report. Motion: That the Treasurer’s reports be accepted. Moved: CKS Seconded: Coota Carried The Treasurer confirmed that the Auditors, Crimmins and Co, had quoted the same fee for 2021/22 auditing as charged in 2020/21.

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Motion: That Crimmins and Co be engaged as Auditors for 2021/22. Moved: WRCS Seconded: NSW Pylon Carried President and CASA Liaison Tim Nolan What a difference a year can make. Covid is still making its presence felt. I am still managing the area approvals for NSW clubs and trying to assist Tyson Dodd (MAAA Secretary) with the load. Each one of these takes several hours to review and backwards and forwards to get to the required standard. There are some major changes coming around Stakeholder Engagement and risk assessments, especially if you want to operate above 400’AGL. Our ability to obtain these concessions from CASA is in no small part, based on our general safety culture, our MOPs, flight training systems and the trust we have developed over many years. We are the largest stakeholders within the recreational airspace user group and, while this gives us some leverage to effect change with the Regulator, it comes with responsibilities and liabilities. The biggest risk is that we are an easier target for complaints and noncompliance issues. If you have an Area Approval, use it but make sure you are complying with the conditions in the instrument and in your risk assessment. The MAAA Presidents’ Meeting was held last month by Zoom. The review of the MOP/SOP will be completed by end September for review by CASA and then we are looking to complete the back of house requirements for them to go live in January 2022. We are developing the MyMAAA app. This will enable the data for all Heavy and Giant Models to be captured as well as the inspector’s details, the information will be stored in the app so that it can recalled by the pilot/owner as required. This will also enable push notifications to remind you when recertification or reaccreditation is due. It will also include the MAAA Wings System, for both Students and Instructors. This will also permit push notifications to help members keep up to date with changes. It will have a lot of other possibilities as we continue to shift to the use of smarter technology. There have been changes at the MAAA Executive level, Tyson Dodd is the Federal Secretary, with Gary Pope as Treasurer, Michael Hobson, the President of MAAQ, was elected as the Vice President, and I was elected as the MAAA President. Minutes and Executive Reports are going onto the MAAA website, financials will go up after the 30 June when the audit is completed. If you have questions, then the folk on the ANSW Executive are always looking for an opportunity to come and fly at your field and have a chat. Drop Clive a line and let’s do some flying.

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Over the next year, we are planning to run the Casino event again in conjunction with the MAAQ and MAAA. If you have any other ideas or events coming up, please contact Clive so we can offer any assistance possible to make your event a great success. I would also like to formally thank Clive, David, Steve, Rob and Dave and all those who have assisted as a sounding board or just offering to help. It makes a big difference and we do appreciate it. Thanks to all the members for your support and I’m looking forward to more flying in the year ahead. Casino Event Report The meeting asked for the report on the inaugural Casino Event to be included. It is reproduced, below, from the minutes of the April Bi-Monthly Meeting: The inaugural Casino Airport Richmond Valley Large Scale Fly In was held over the Easter Break from Thursday 1st April to Monday 5th April and was an unmitigated success and a truly memorable event for the aircraft present, the camaraderie and friendships formed and, of course, the weather. For those who were not there, it rained, following by more rain, a bit of sunshine and then more rain. Whilst the numbers were ultimately down on expectations due to last-minute COVID-19 lockdowns, there were in excess of forty pilots and a huge variety of aircraft present - amazingly numbering well over one hundred, and then the Garles had their stunning Fokker DR-1 60% scale triplane, which was a sight to behold during a low and slow sunset pass across the field. Whether it was a flock of 3D pilots trying to go lower than the rest, or the screaming jets performing unbelievable aerobatics, the huge number of giant scale gliders gracefully floating around, or the large scale types such as the 50% Decathlon putting on a very low and wonderful scale aerobatic display, there was always something going on at the flight line to entertain fellow pilots and the public alike. Despite the weather, the number of members of the public who visited the event over the five days was very good, and judging by their reactions and comments, a great time was had by all. The Mayor, Mr Robert Mustow, and his wife, paid us a visit on Saturday and spent a great deal of time looking over the aircraft on display and chatting with the ANSW President and MAAA Secretary. He was quite impressed and welcoming of the event and is very much looking forward to an even bigger and better showing next year. As is always the case with events of this type, they are made by the pilots and their aircraft that attend and all thanks needs to go to everyone in attendance. You made the event what it was. Special thanks also needs to go to all the event organisers, especially Tyson and Jordana Dodd for their amazing efforts co-ordinating the day-to-day activities, breakfasts, lunches and dinners and a great deal of the operational issues throughout the event. In the end, despite the weather, or perhaps because of it, I am quite certain everyone would agree that the event was a spectacular beginning to what will surely become a key fixture on the aeromodellers calendar for years to come.

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Secretary’s Report Clive Weatherhead It is good to see things getting back to some semblance of normality in the last few months and clubs, almost without exception, seem to have weathered the Covid issues extremely well. That said, my view on the stand-out issue for the last year has been conflicts, mostly between members, and sometimes relatively small issues snowballing into arguments, threats and, on occasion, lawyers at twenty paces. Several times, the clubs involved have asked ANSW to provide support and assistance in terms of running meetings and sorting matters out, which we are happy to do. The point remains, though, that each of these, so far, has involved mature people where the aggressors, typically, had lost sight of the point of our hobby. Perhaps Covid (and its necessary lockdowns) has caused tempers to fray. We’ve had a couple of incidents, recently, of people covertly filming ANSW volunteers at a meeting at their clubs which, whilst not illegal, might have justified, at least, a polite heads-up before filming started. An old colleague of mine used to say, “there’s NEVER an excuse for bad manners”. I think of that when we are dealing with issues that should never have become a problem. On a brighter note, though, our NSW membership numbers have grown considerably and it’s a delight to see an influx of new members, young and old, male and female. The flight line at my own club has been able to welcome a good many new friends this year, and we’re a richer hobby for it. If Covid has helped, a little, to steer people towards our hobby, then there, at least, is a small silver lining in the cloud. Happy flying and thank you to all the members in NSW (and beyond) who have helped make my role easier than it might, otherwise, be. Vice President David Kennedy Like everyone else, what a year it has been. I’d like to echo my peers and thank my fellow Executive and all members within NSW that have made it an absolute pleasure to be involved in aeromodelling in this capacity over the last year. One thing that has become clear over the last 12 months is that for us to all be successful in making aeromodelling what it can and should be, we need to work together to achieve our goals. It’s not enough today to just take our hobby for granted, it is far too easy for it to slip away if we don’t look after it so to speak. We must always be asking how I can help and how can I be more involved to ensure its success. As Tim is quite fond of saying, “fella’s what is your legacy going to be for the hobby? How are you going to pay it forward just as those who have come before us have?” It I may send out a not-so-subtle reminder safety is something we should not take for granted, and whilst we are fortunate to have not had too many serious injuries – though we have had quite few near misses and accidents – of late, we all need to be mindful whenever we are having fun with our models. Don’t become careless, complacent or blasé about your safety and that of your fellow members.

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With all that said, we have achieved a lot over the last 12 months. However we can’t sit back on our laurels - there is more to be done. The plan for the next 12 months will be a challenge, but it will be for the betterment of our sport. Time to pay it forward over the next 12 months. I’m looking forward to getting out and having a fly at more clubs across the state this year. Registrar Dave Lewis Hello to all, Big thank you to the Members, Club Registrars, and the Executive of Aeromodellers NSW – you have again made my job an interesting and pleasant task during the year. In 2019-20 we peaked at 2013 Members overall, of which 84 were Juniors and 1929 were Seniors. Very pleased to announce that we are now at 2107 members overall, with 108 Juniors and 1999 Seniors - just under a 5% increase. Congratulations to Tim Nolan on being elected to the position of MAAA President. Looking forward to a great year as we work towards securing our future in this great sport.

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Newsletter Editor Rob Masters

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Chief Flying Instructor Brendan Tucker Thirty instructors have now completed the MAAA instructor course with courses being held at Cootamundra, SSME and RAAFMAC over the last 12 months. A final course for FY20/21 will be held at Wingham at the end of the month with another 9 instructors indicating their attendance. Regarding the awarding of Wings, the following have been issued across all types: 17 Bronze 32 Silver 21 Gold. There are also a large number of wings currently being processed which is fantastic to see. While some of the instructors are electing not to renew their Instructor rating, I'd like to thank them for their contribution to their clubs and aeromodelling and wish them all the best in the future with their modelling endeavours. Happy Flying!

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Safety Officer Daryl Woolfe I am happy to report that the last year was relatively quiet on the accident / incident front with a few needing more attention than others. Yet there seems to be more flying being done, throughout our state at least. This does not mean, however, that we can let our guard down as far as safety goes and we should all be encouraging clubs and individuals to improve the safety culture. It does disappoint me to hear clubs say, ‘but we have done it this way for thirty years!’ This may be so, but it does not mean that ‘this way’ is safe. It just means that you have gotten away with it for thirty years. Things also change. It is also disappointing when a safety message is met with abuse and ridicule from senior club members. Just because a younger club member is giving advice on safety, does not mean that the club member is being smart. They have just seen an issue, sometimes with fresh eyes, and have acted on it. This is something we should all do but many club members are reluctant to speak up for fear of being verbally abused or even threatened with physical violence. We should be grateful, not resentful. People are not being the ‘fun police’ by trying to keep you safe. They are looking after you. Remember that before blowing your top at someone. I have a lot of fun flying, having a cuppa, telling lies about how low I flew last week and general discussion about building and flying. It is not a lot of fun laying on a bed in the emergency ward waiting to be stitched up while leaking the red stuff. Have you ever had to wipe your bum with stitches in your hand? Not easy, is it? There seems to be a strong push back about reporting an incident or accident and I am sure that a number of incidents have gone unreported. This is a shame. ANSW is not out to name and shame an individual by any means, but we do need the facts in order to attempt to prevent further issues. This is where the club culture comes into play. Encourage your members to follow the rules and to report an incident if it happens. Encourage members to accept safety advice in a gracious manner. If a person considers you to be important enough to help out, that is a great thing not a downer. It means that someone cares about you. All of the conversations that I have had with injured pilots [or those at the controls of an errant model] have been light-hearted and positive. And every single pilot has taken the blame for the incident. Even the errant models. This has been the positive thing to come out of this and I enjoy talking to the pilots and making sure that they are OK. And the pilots have all expressed gratitude for the interest in their health and wellbeing. This is important. We are all in this sport for fun, we should all treat it that way. Let’s look forward to a great season of flying and we are blessed to have the basic capability to fly all year round. In conclusion, most incidents have happened because of fatigue and complacency. The fatigue part has been mentioned most of the time and it usually occurs on the first flight of the morning. A warm-up both mentally and physically seems to be one hint I can give out. Especially the mental warm up. We are in a rapidly evolving sport, the equipment, such as batteries and motors for electric power have evolved so quickly in recent times, the safety around these high-powered machines needs to evolve with it as does the safety culture of clubs and the end user of this equipment, us. I also acknowledge the support and advice from all of the ANSW committee, and I believe that we are in very good hands.

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State Flying Field Cootamundra Club The bookings of the Cootamundra field have increased, and the feedback from people who visit is always extremely positive. The bookings will be included in future bi-monthly meetings for information. The meeting recorded a vote of thanks to all at the Cootamundra Club for their hard work and commitment to the venue. Second State Flying Field - search The search for a potential second NSW state flying field is still on hold, although members are encouraged to contact Clive Weatherhead with opportunities that they deem appropriate. Special Awards Tim Nolan announced the following special awards from the MAAA: Dave Lewis, our Registrar, has been recognized with the MAAA Service Medallion for his efforts over many years as the Registrar for ANSW. Dave is always the first to offer and assist any club or member. The second award is Life Membership of the MAAA to Stephen Vickers who was the Chief Flying Instructor in NSW for longer than most of us can remember, and he has given many years of support and service to RCAS, MASNSW, WRCS and of late at HMAS. On behalf of all members, we congratulate Stephen and Dave on these well-deserved awards. The chairman proposes that the reports are accepted. Moved: RFC Seconded: WRCS Carried Correspondence In: C 1.1 nomination for the position of President – Next due 2022 C 1.2 nomination for the position of Vice President – David Kennedy C 1.3 nomination for the position of Secretary – Clive Weatherhead C 1.4 nomination for the position of Treasurer and State Field Secretary – Next due 2022 C 1.5 nomination for the position of Registrar – Next due 2022 C 1.6 nomination for the position of Newsletter Editor – Rob Masters C 1.7 nomination for the position of Public Relations Officer – Chris Orfanos

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Election of Office bearers for 2018-19 As there is only one nomination for each position, the Chairman asked the nominees if they accepted their Nomination as follows: President Tim Nolan Vice President David Kennedy – re-elected Secretary Clive Weatherhead – re-elected Treasurer Steve Norrie Registrar Dave Lewis Newsletter Editor Rob Masters – re-elected Public Relations Officer Chris Orfanos - elected Having accepted the nominations, the Committee Members were appointed by the meeting. Setting of the Aeromodellers NSW Affiliation Fees 2021 -22 The fees for the coming year were proposed at the April meeting and are confirmed, below, for ratification. The Fees for Aeromodellers NSW for the membership year 2021-22 will be: Seniors $50.00 Juniors $0 Half Year (available from 1 Jan 2022 for new members only) Seniors $30 Juniors $0 For 2021/22 only, the above fees will be reduced by an ‘early bird’ discount of $10 for members who have paid and are registered by 31/7/21, in view of the extremely difficult conditions that have occurred in the past 12 months. NOTE THE ABOVE DOES NOT INCLUDE THE MAAA FEE, which is: Senior - $90 (Half year of $45) Junior - $45 (Half year of $25) The chairman proposes that the fees as above are accepted. Moved: GMAC Seconded: CKS Carried Review of Honorariums In previous years, the honorariums have been adjusted by CPI. However, for 2017/2018, and for 2018/2019, and for 2019/2020, the honorarium recipients volunteered that they were happy to accept no increase. They have done the same for 2020/2021.

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The President would normally ask that Secretary, Registrar, Treasurer, and Newsletter Editor leave the meeting but, as there was no change to terms and no request for discussion, he did not. The Chairman proposes that the honorarium rate stays the same for 2020/2021 as it was for 2017/2018, 2018/2019 and 2019/2020, but that future reviews take account of CPI from the previous baseline – March 2017.

Position 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20

Secretary $2.20 $2.25 $2.25 $2.25

Treasurer $2.20 $2.25 $2.25 $2.25

Registrar $2.20 $2.25 $2.25 $2.25

Newsletter Editor $2.20 $2.25 $2.25 $2.25

Moved: CAA Seconded: SNMAC Carried Fees for executive roles not receiving honorariums: Last year, at the AGM, the following motion was proposed and carried. ‘It was noted that there are 3 roles on the ANSW committee that require a substantial input of time but do not receive an honorarium. It was proposed that these positions – President, Vice President and one committee member (role currently vacant) have their ANSW and MAAA fees covered by ANSW in recognition of their efforts.’ The Secretary proposed that the same arrangement apply for this year. Moved: CKS Seconded: NSW Pylon Carried The Secretary proposed that this be considered for incorporation into the Constitution of ANSW at the next change. This matter to be considered at the August bi-monthly meeting of ANSW.

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Use of Technology: Given the continuing Covid situation, the Secretary proposed that the following wording be included into the ANSW constitution at next change to allow the use of technology for meetings and attendance: Use of Technology A general meeting will be valid whether held via technology, face to face meeting or a combination of the two, providing that any use of technology allows members present to clearly and simultaneously communicate with each other. A member participating in the meeting will be deemed present at the meeting whether they attend in person or via technology, and any votes cast will be taken to have the same effect as voting in person. The meeting discussed whether this proposal was required to be included in the AGM agenda, or whether discussion at the April bi-monthly meetings and notice of the proposal for the AGM being included in the minutes of that meeting was adequate. This change is a formality, only, given that there is already regulatory approval for electronic meetings as a result of Covid and, in the interests of moving the meeting along, the Secretary withdrew the resolution with the approval of the Chairman. General Business: The next Annual General Meeting of Aeromodellers NSW is scheduled to be held at a venue to be advised in advance of the meeting, commencing at 7:30pm on Friday 10th June 2022, all members and visitors are welcome. Note the AGM for Aeromodellers NSW will be conducted during the normal bi-monthly business meeting, in accordance with normal practice. There being no further business before the meeting: Annual General Meeting declared closed: 8:48pm

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Bi-monthly meeting re-opened Meeting Re-opened : 8:48 pm Correspondence: Items in purple text (if any) are highlighted for discussion:

Correspondence In

Source Content Outcome and matters arising

Various Responding to NSW CFI in response to his reminder regarding instructor certification and re-certification

Noted

Ian Avery Information on New England Gas Champs – Tamworth, 12th and 13th June

Published in newsletter

Col Woodward – HSL

Notification that Max Stone, one of the earliest members of MAAA (Aus 31 and NSW 31) passed away in early April

Recorded

David Balfour Information on Albury Autumn Scale Rally, May 1st and 2nd, 2021

Published in newsletter

Barry Neems - PMRMC

Request for assistance with special general meeting, leading to update on committee changes at PMRMC

Passed to NSW registrar. MAAA and ANSW databases updated

Bruce Thrift – CVRCMASC

Updated on ownership of the flying field. New owner’s interest to be noted on insurance

MAAA advised

Gail Scott – SAM1788

Changes to committee of SAM1788 Passed to NSW registrar

Geoff Jones – SNMAC

Enquiry concerning 2020 club assistance scheme final payments

Answered

Geoff Jones – SNMAC

Updated documents for area approval Processed

Terry Bond – NSWFFS

Confirmation that NSWFFS would accept developments proposed by SAM1788 under MAAA club assistance scheme with ANSW support

Noted

Gary Pope – MAAA

Various in and out correspondence finalising cost of aborted property transaction in Broke, NSW

Information only

Clive Weatherhead and Dave Lewis – ANSW

Correspondence with a club considering running a special general meeting.

Information only

Details withheld Various concerning a club in the Central Tablelands that is not affiliated to ANSW or MAAA concerning issues with the club operations and governance

Suggested that the individuals write to the club president or seek legal advice given that the

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Correspondence In


club has not been affiliated to ANSW for several years

Ken Roberts – BDMC

Note of thanks for Tim Nolan’s assistance in speeding through an area approval that had expired a year earlier than expected. Also raised a question on who could be a spotter in relation to potential traffic at local airports

This was answered to the effect that CASA has chosen not to be specific on this point, relying on ANSW and member clubs to nominate appropriately


Updated programme for 1st West Wyalong Nats. Passed to editor for newsletter

Barry Neems – PMRCMAC

Insurance claim documentation and supporting photographs

Passed to MAAA to correspond with insurer

Tyson Dodd – MAAA

Details/matrix of club assistance scheme applications received.

Checked, and one correction sent

Details withheld Information concerning an individual flying above agl limit and without required approval from nearby tower. Matter being dealt with by CASA

Individual has resigned from the club concerned

Ian Friery – HEMFC

Details of an act of vandalism at the club which had a positive outcome

Passed to newsletter editor

Ian Friery – HEMFC

Incident report Submitted to safety officer

Barry Neems - PMRMC

Correspondence concerning insurance claim following water damage

Processed with MAAA

Phil Stevenson – Picton

Notification of a glider event in June at a field to be registered with ANSW (and MAAA/CASA)

Registered

Bob Flint – WRCS

Requesting copy of night-flying MOP Supplied. MAAA advised for record purposes

P Larsen – CKSMAC

Requesting copy of Deed of Agreement between CKSMAC and MAAA

Confirmed that no deed of agreement exists between CKSMAC and MAAA

Heath MacDonald – ASAC

Requesting club supply of bronze and silver wings. For general information, club CFIs normally hold stock of bronze and silver wings. Gold wings are sent out by ANSW registrar when awarded.

Sent

Malcolm Robertson – JFANI

Request for temporary approval for jets to 1500’ agl for 28-30/5/21 at West Wyalong

CASA publishing NOTAM

Michael Derrig Heavy Model inspector FW25 form for processing

Forwarded to MAAA for recording

Jeremy Randle – NSW Pylon

Request for breakdown on branded items ordered for, and sold at, Casino

Covered in general business in this document

Rob Masters – ANSW

Requesting budget up to $200 to replace laser printer for ANSW editorial work

Approved

Page | 21


Correspondence In


Peter Mooney – SSMAC

Enquiry concerning defibrillator grant programs NSW Office of Sport program closed for the year but may reappear in early 2022. Also note St John has one unit on offer at the time of writing - https://shop.stjohn.org.au/defibrillator-g5-fa-cpr-cabinet_2019702/ MAAA is also considering whether a bulk purchase could realise some cost savings for clubs, and any interested club is encouraged to contact Clive Weatherhead in the first instance.

Bruce Thrift - CVRCMASC

Reminder for MAAA to add Dahua Group to interested parties on insurance policy

Tyson Dodd arranging

Barry Neems – PMRMC

Initial notification of new field Have now received details for field registration (longitude, latitude, address, field name and responsible person). Tim Nolan liaising regarding area approval process

Tyson Dodd – MAAA

Dropbox link and various documents for 2021 MAAA conference

Reviewed & actioned

Tyson Dodd – MAAA

Confirmation to PMRCMAC that the excess on claims for club property is $2000, and is the responsibility of the club

Info only

Tim Nolan – MAAA

Confirming MAAA fees set at the same level as previous year

Clubs notified to enable renewal process to commence

Ed Sarkoezy – PMMAC

Enquiry concerning separation of spectators/cars from flying area – for area approval

Discussing with Tim Nolan

Tyson Dodd – MAAA

To David Kennedy in his role as Chairman of SSME relating to the insurance of building of boilers

Info only

Tyson Dodd – MAAA

Confirmation that all ANSW applicants for club assistance scheme were successful

Info only

Chris Sheraton – LMMAC

Details of changes needed on the ANSW website club information page for LMMAC

Actioned by David Kennedy

Tyson Dodd – MAAA

2021-22 insurance scheme confirmation of cover recorded


Bulleting 3 for 1st West Wyalong nationals circulated

Tom Tobin – RFC

Enquiry concerning the use of the field by a commercial drone operator for training purposes

Confirmed that any non-recreational flying could not

https://shop.stjohn.org.au/defibrillator-g5-fa-cpr-cabinet_2019702/



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Correspondence In


take place whilst the filed was being used for recreational flying and, otherwise, would need to comply with area approval and any field restrictions

Club details withheld

Apology from club committee following a member covertly recording a presentation by ANSW committee guests at the club

For record only

Late Correspondence Not Yet Dealt With


Correspondence out


CFI - NSW Various reminders concerning instructor courses Noted

Tim Nolan – ANSW

To Mark Lewis, CASA. Request for area approval for Paul Bennet – Mudgee Airshow

Processed and approved

Tim Nolan – ANSW

To Paul Bennet. CASA approval for Paul Bennet – Mudgee Airshow, April 2021

Sent

Tim Nolan – ANSW

To Mark Lewis, CASA. Request for area approval for Paul Bennet – Warnervale Airshow

Processed and approved

Clive Weatherhead – ANSW

Advising 3 clubs that their club assistance requests had been approved by ANSW and would be passed to MAAA for consideration

Info only


To Tyson Dodd – MAAA. Club assistance application for Lismore MAC.

Submitted for consideration


To Tyson Dodd – MAAA. Club assistance application for Warringah RCS.



To Tyson Dodd – MAAA. Club assistance application for Society of Antique Modellers.


Tim Nolan – ANSW

To Drone Racing Australia concerning process for area approval

Info only

Tim Nolan – ANSW

To Darryl Riley, Leeton – details/examples of documents required for area approval

Info only

Brendan Tucker – ANSW

Details of 29th/30th May instructor course sent to attendees

Info only

Motion: That the acceptance of inward and outward correspondence be accepted as a true record.

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Moved: RFC Seconded: SSSME Carried Awards:

Awards

MAAA power fixed wing

Name Club MAAA number Class

Darren Beck HEMFC 87894 Gold

Cory Eustace MDMAS 60764 Gold

Rocco Pellegrino CVRCMAC 85707 Silver

Mohammed Baset CMAC 87156 Bronze

Andrew Beazley RFC 59905 Gold

Daniel Crowe SMFC 88053 Silver

Norbet Moers ASAC 85741 Bronze

Barry Burke ASAC 12518 Silver

Peter Duckworth ASAC 24230 Silver

Phillip Whitehouse ASAC 49958 Silver

Rob Mair Southern Highlands 57296 Silver

Sean Hong WRCS 60075 Silver

Lindsay Muffett MDMAI 76653 Silver

Graeme Cashman BDMC 83931 Silver

Ben Means WMAC 77928 Silver

Ben Jones SNMAC 57590 Gold

Warren Jessup SSSFA 87426 Bronze

MAAA glider


Robert Nutman HSL 83994 Gold

MAAA helicopter


MAAA multirotor


MAAA Instructor certification or recertification

Name New or renewal MAAA number Class

Andy Luckett Renew 28187 Fixed Wing

Joseph Borg New 27243 Fixed Wing

Julie Gallimore New 81512 Helicopter

Mike Shaw New 57427 Fixed Wing

Alios Zuger Renew 57564 Fixed Wing

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MAAA Instructor certification or recertification

Name New or renewal MAAA number Class

Chris Sheraton New 85658 Fixed Wing

Jason Russ Renew 47923 Fixed Wing

Nic Lucas New 62001 Fixed Wing

Stephen Schumack Renew 37928 Fixed Wing

Jim Burrows New 84949 Fixed Wing

Colin Wardrop New 14573 Fixed Wing

George Katopodis New 73686 Fixed Wing

Peter Creaser Renew 32261 Fixed Wing

Ben Burrell Renew 42226 Fixed and heli

Corinne Pellatt Renew 54650 Fixed Wing

Jodie French New 54220 Fixed Wing

Mike Reynell Renew 32667 Fixed Wing

Jason Vanajek Renew 49860 Fixed Wing

Darren Beck New 87894 Fixed Wing

John Considine Renew 10170 Fixed Wing

Jeremy Randle Renew 31428 Fixed Wing

Howard Cooper Renew 34241 Fixed Wing

John Corben Renew 57414 Fixed Wing

Ronald Moore Renew 34147 Fixed Wing

Terry Noel Renew 24819 Fixed Wing

Barry Packman Renew 43826 Fixed Wing

Steve Weatherstone Renew 32331 Fixed Wing

Tom Pana Renew 42369 Fixed Wing

Motion: That the nominations for Gold Wings be ratified Moved: CKS Seconded: NSW Scale Carried Treasurer’s Bi-monthly Report Steve Norrie The April and May financials were presented for approval. Motion: That the Treasurer’s reports be accepted. Moved: CKS Seconded: GMAC Carried

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General and New Business:

1. Casino Event – review

The Casino event was discussed, including the purchase of branded clothing and the impact of persistent rain as well as a Covid lockdown just prior to the event, both of which severely impacted attendance. Nevertheless, overall attendance was good, with many visitors attending on more than one day, and event feedback was overwhelmingly positive from participants for NSW, Queensland and elsewhere. For future events, there are some key learnings:

• The opportunity for two flight lines should be taken advantage of, with differentiation possible between large and/or fast models and other flying disciplines.

• The pilot briefing could be clearer, and emphasis placed on the potential for manned aircraft to also need to use the runway.

• Flight line separation would offer opportunities for smaller aircraft and the use of buddy systems to allow visitors to have a try.

• Significant changes to the pits area, motor vehicles, camping locations, toilets.

• Improved management of full-sized aircraft movements and models.

• Greater engagement with the local media, radio/tv and print media.

• Increased use of local suppliers.

• Little or no branded items for sale.

• Set up working group for the next one.

• On the lay out, keeping the all-weather road open/ no parking in this area.

• Model and Pilot check flights before flying on the public days.

• Catering – formalise and increase/extend.

2. Signing-in at club fields. Clubs are already operating Covid sign-ins and some have also introduced a sign-in book for members to use each time they visit their field. There is an indication, from CASA, that each club should implement a physical sign-in book in the near-term, so that there is a permanent record of who is flying, when. This information will not, normally, be required, but may be important in the event of an incident that CASA is required to be involved in, and it is to the club and members’ advantage to have a record available if needed.

3. Standing item – upcoming events: a. See ANSW newsletter for current events list.

4. Standing item – any incident reports or safety issues reported during the last 2 months: a. WRCS – prop strike. b. HEMFC – prop strike after kill switch disengaged accidentally.

5. Clubs are reminded not to contact the MAAA Secretary directly, as many of the issues that are

communicated to him should be handled at a State level. Please contact Clive Weatherhead as ANSW Secretary in the first instance.

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6. The minutes of the May MAAA Presidents’ conference will be posted on the MAAA website, and the end of year accounts will be made available as soon as they are complete. It was noted that large international competition events were unlikely for the balance of 2021, and even the 2022 event list might be impacted by Covid.

7. The current plan is that the next general meeting will be held on Friday 13th August 2021 at 7:30pm. It is expected that the location will be by Zoom meeting and log-in information will be provided before the meeting. Any change to this plan will be advised to club representatives

Motion: That the items of general and new business, above, be recorded as discussed Moved: CKS Seconded: CAA Carried

There being no further business before the meeting, the meeting was declared closed at 9:55 p.m.

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Aeromodellers NSW 2021 Calendar (Compiled 29 June 2021)

Unless otherwise advised Aeromodellers NSW Meetings are held the 2nd Friday of every other Month.

Note: Please check with the nominated contact regarding cancellations due to COVID 19 restrictions

July 2021

10 Floatplanes Over the Regatta Centre Penrith Tim Nolan 0412 173 440 11 Gosford City Float Planes Kariong Nic Lucas 0424 350 366 11 GCAC Central Coast Indoor Flying Niagara Park Hank van de Scheur 0417 685 403 17-18 Precision Aerobatics – hosted by CVRCMAS Camden Valley Alastair Bennetts 0439 480 793 25 Gosford City Float Planes Kariong Nic Lucas 0424 350 366 31 Floatplanes Over the Regatta Centre Penrith Tim Nolan 0412 173 440

August 2021

8 Gosford City Float Planes Kariong Nic Lucas 0424 350 366 8 Floatplanes Over the Regatta Centre Penrith Tim Nolan 0412 173 440 8 Pylon Racing at Pitt Town Pitt Town Jeremy Randle 0418 390 446 13 Aeromodellers NSW General Mtg TBA Tim Nolan 0412 173 440 14 Precision Aerobatics – hosted by CKSMAC Pitt Town Alastair Bennetts 0439 480 793 14-15 TARMAC Scale Rally Tamworth Richard Exler 0438 314882 15 Precision Aerobatics – hosted by RAAFMAC Richmond Alastair Bennetts 0439 480 793 22 Gosford City Float Planes Kariong Nic Lucas 0424 350 366 27-29 Cowra Oily Hand Diesel Day http://cowramac.com Cowra Andy Luckett [email protected] 28-29 Warialda Fun-Fly 2021 Warialda Barry Power 0427 885 058 Allan Asquith 0415 735 461 29 Floatplanes Over the Regatta Centre Penrith Tim Nolan 0412 173 440 29 GCAC Central Coast Indoor Flying Niagara Park Hank van de Scheur 0417 685 403

September 2021

3-5 SAM 1788 Oldtimer Contest Cootamundra Peter Smith 0423 452 879 5 Gosford City Float Planes Kariong Nic Lucas 0424 350 366 18 Floatplanes Over the Regatta Centre Penrith Tim Nolan 0412 173 440 18-19 Precision Aerobatics – hosted by GDAA Gunnedah Alastair Bennetts 0439 480 793 19 Gosford City Float Planes Kariong Nic Lucas 0424 350 366 26 GCAC Central Coast Indoor Flying Niagara Park Hank van de Scheur 0417 685 403

http://cowramac.com/


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October 2021 1-4 Coota Scalefest 2021 - State field Cootamundra Cootamundra Colin Mitchell 0418 699 182 David Foster 0407 971 180 3 Gosford City Float Planes Kariong Nic Lucas 0424 350 366 8 Aeromodellers NSW General Mtg TBA Tim Nolan 0412 173 440 9 Floatplanes Over the Regatta Centre Penrith Tim Nolan 0412 173 440 16-17 Precision Aerobatics – hosted by QMAC Queanbeyan Alastair Bennetts 0439 480 793 17 Gosford City Float Planes Kariong Nic Lucas 0424 350 366 16 GCAC Central Coast Indoor Flying Niagara Park Hank van de Scheur 0417 685 403 24 GCAC Central Coast Indoor Flying Niagara Park Hank van de Scheur 0417 685 403 31 Gosford City Float Planes Kariong Nic Lucas 0424 350 366

November 2021

6-7 SAM 1788 Golden West Old Timer Parkes Peter Smith 0423 452 879 6-7 WMAC Scale Rally & Swap/Sell Wagga Wagga Tony McAtamney 0417 294 784 10-14 Invitational Scale classic Downunder 2021 Cootamundra Cheryl Rolfe [email protected] 14 Gosford City Float Planes Kariong Nic Lucas 0424 350 366 20-21 Precision Aerobatics – hosted by SMFC Shoalhaven Alastair Bennetts 0439 480 793 21 GCAC Central Coast Indoor Flying Niagara Park Hank van de Scheur 0417 685 403 28 Gosford City Float Planes Kariong Nic Lucas 0424 350 366

December 2021

10 Aeromodellers NSW General Mtg TBA Tim Nolan 0412 173 440 11 Floatplanes Over the Regatta Centre Penrith Tim Nolan 0412 173 440 12 GCAC Central Coast Indoor Flying Niagara Park Hank van de Scheur 0417 685 403 19 Gosford City Float Planes Kariong Nic Lucas 0424 350 366

January 2022

2 Gosford City Float Planes Kariong Nic Lucas 0424 350 366


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Club News & General Interest Safety Matters

G’day to all of our ANSW members, Safety takes on all forms and for those of you who have to mow around cattle and their leftovers, I wonder if you have heard of “Q” fever. Q fever is an extremely nasty thing to catch and is prevalent in the cattle industry. Many cattle farmers, truck drivers and sale yard workers have contracted this and it is potentially fatal. At best, it will lay you low for several weeks. If you have not been vaccinated against this and you are using a mower to help out your club and you do have organic land mines, protect yourself by wearing a mask. The vaccination is not cheap [around $500 by the time the test is done and you are given the vaccine] so the best way to prevent getting this nasty is by wearing the appropriate PPE. It is the older organic land mines that pose the biggest risk as they tend to turn into dust when hit by the blades and Q fever travels on the dust of cow dung. I was vaccinated years ago when I was working around cattle and then it was done at no cost. A bit different today. Q fever hits those with even second-hand contact with cattle as in, via mowing lawns or gardening while using cow dung as fertiliser. Many meat workers have also contracted Q fever over the years and it was only in the mid-80s that a serious effort was made to find out what was causing illness in the cattle industry. Even working on farm implements saw some mechanics come down with Q fever. While this may seem to off the wall to many, it is a real issue for clubs that are sharing the ground with

bovine neighbours. This came to light with my own club just this week and made an impact on those who have just started on the ground keeping crew. It does pay to be on the safe side of things. Just another thing that may never happen but a safety issue, nevertheless. As it the time of year that most clubs are conducting their AGMs, it could be a good time to do a safety audit of your grounds with the incoming committee. Just look for the obvious things that might escape notice during normal activities. Things like tripping hazards are a standard issue for most places and a thing as simple as an old piece of pipe sticking up could be a reason for a fall, even though that pipe has been there for a hundred years. Check your first aid kits. Band aids do not stick if the heat of summer has caused all the sticky stuff to harden. Now is the time to replace used items and out of date items. It does not hurt to do an audit a couple of times a year. Even check out your home first aid kits. I do not know about the rest of our modelling population, but I tend to have an argument with the pointy end of a sharp blade every so often. Usually when putting my hand on it without looking. I tend to bleed like a stuck pig and I am not on blood thinners! We have started a new season of flying and it would be terrific if we recorded zero injuries for the upcoming year. However, we are human and humans do make mistakes. Be as careful as you can be and look out for your mates. Regards and respect Daryl Woolfe ANSW Safety Officer.

Daryl Woolfe ANSW Safety Officer

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The Tiger Story The year was 1998 and I was in Melbourne, the country's capital of RC model helicopters. After visiting a number of outlets it didn't take long to decide what I wanted, looking for a large scale model to modernize my rather old and aging fleet. The Vario showroom impressed me most, with a great variety of models on display. After further browsing through the immaculately presented catalogue I instantly fell in love with a large scale model of Eurocopter's "Tiger" - well known after being featured in the James Bond movie with the pilot’s capsule being ejected through the 4 bladed rotor and soon after there was a new addition to an Australian Air Force fleet. With little knowledge about the brand and numerous options to fit it out, I had to rely on the salesman’s recommendations for the internal mechanics and the engine, ending up with Skyfox mechanics powered by an ABC, 10cc Webra engine on a long tuned pipe. All well packed up in couple of large boxes, I couldn't wait to get back home and start working on the new project the next day. To keep the story short, it took some 360 hours to finish it off over a 4 month period of loving labour. With a decade of experience building and flying scale models I wasn't in any hurry, trying to pay attention to the finest details while learning a totally new concept of this model design at the same time. With the rather innovative CCPM (Cyclic & Collective pitch modulation) control system, the main rotor, left hand rotation and high compression ABC engine, it was all new to me, so before installing the mechanics inside of the very narrow space restricted fuselage, I built a test stand to run-in the engine and get accustomed with the whole power set up. One of the most difficult parts of the build was the complex tail rotor drive train, via 3 gear boxes including the 40 degree one going up the tail fin. To

align the whole drive and secure it in the pretty tight and hard to access space took a lot of imagination and patience, given the very basic building instructions supplied. One of the major problems with the scale models can be the resonance vibrations that can build up within the fuselage, to the point of destroying the whole model, so I paid serious attention to reinforcing the fiberglass fuselage from scratch and even more importantly, braced the mechanics to the fuselage more solidly than shown in the simple instruction drawings. This can add considerable additional all up weight, but better to be safe than sorry. The model featured a nice scale set of main oleo landing gear which needed a lot of extra support for the rather heavy model, expected to be just over 7 kilos. Due to its very long boom from the main mast to the tail, and rather short front nose section, the centre of gravity balance can be an issue with this model, so considerable ballast weight was required to be placed in the extreme front of the model. With the help of a larger capacity flight pack, separate batteries for the flashing strobe lights, scratch built pilot seat and compartment and the pilot himself, it still wasn't enough so a heavy solid steel machine gun was created and fitted as on the full size to the extreme nose section. It was still tail heavy however, so unfortunately lead ballast was added to balance it just a fraction nose heavy, my norm with all model helicopters, ending up with it being some 7350 grams empty. After a few fuel tanks through the engine on the test stand, I set the carby and the rotor pitch for reliable operation, ready to be installed inside the fully completed model. Looking awesome, painted in the made up Tiger scheme, it was ready for the first run. Pretty nervous, not knowing what to expect from the brand new and almost twice as heavy as the

Joseph Frost

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chopper I had flown to date (and with torque the opposite to what I was used to, I started with extreme care at very low hovering. It certainly felt different at first, but after some time I gradually got accustomed and started to enjoy very close in runs.

The Tiger back in its glory days, the year was 2000

While I was living at almost 1000 metre Highlands altitude and often traveling to fly it at sea level there was always a lot of "fiddling with the main needle". Also, being a high compression engine I never used Nitro, only the recommended straight 4 to 1 fuel, using synthetic oils with a small percentage of added Castor, as I recall, so unless the carby was set to an ideal, the engine had a bit of a temperament! There was one thing that worried me on occasions, with the increase of RPM as the engine leaned out somewhat with the drop in fuel level, the fuselage rudder fin and horizontal stabilizer vibration became noticeable and accessible as during an outing at one of the clubs I visited to show off my new creation. Being at much lower altitude than at my home field I have always opened up the main needle somewhat to run it richer, but after having fun and zooming up and down along the main strip , probably livelier than usual, the rpms dramatically increased, probably running too lean, and before I could bring it down safely, the model sort of exploded some 20 feet high, so whilst the power was abruptly cut off I managed to land along the strip as with a conventional plane on its landing

gear. After the full stop and a close inspection I found there was serious damage to the fuselage, just behind the main mast with it almost cut in half, the tail boom just holding on some by some shattered fiberglass at the fuselage halves joint. Pretty close to total destruction, if the power wasn't cut off and a bit of luck on my side on the day. Back on the workbench and after close inspection, it became pretty obvious that the carbon fibre tube, driving the tail rotor must have created a huge wobble with the rpm increase between the front fuse bearing support and the pretty flimsy and delicate uni/coupling cruciform joint to the 40 degree tail fin gear box. The length of the drive was much too long without any additional support! After removal of the mechanics I managed to re-fibreglass and repaint the damaged fuselage and started designing the new additional bushing to support the carbon fibre drive to eliminate any possibility of further wobble. Also, I decided to install four extra bracings between the mechanics and the internal fuse to stiffen up the thing even more and fitted some hard rubber fill-ins between the huge engine cooling heat sink head and the mechanic's side frames to absorb / minimize any vibes coming from the 2 stroke motor.

Additional bushing to support the tail rotor drive

The tail drive was a bit of a nightmare job, through the small access hatch at the rear of the tail boom. The mechanics and the whole tail drive were put back together after an additional firewall ply

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former with a small hole in the centre for the CF drive was epoxied inside the tail boom. I commissioned a friend with a lathe to machine me a bronze sleeve which was prior epoxied over the CF drive tube and he also machined a couple of Teflon rings with "U" shaped cut openings which were attached over the bronze sleeve and fitted with screws to the firewall to create an extra bearing support. This modification removed all the stress and load wobble off the delicate plastic cased 40 deg. gear box and gave a full additional bearing/bushing support to eliminate any possible free vibes to the tail drive even during an increase of rpm. I highly recommended this upgrade to Vario soon after my incident. Happy with the mods everything was put back together for more flying action. With the correct carby adjustment on the day the model performed well but while doing half of the flying in the high elevation’s thinner air, it didn't take long for the engine to overheat, especially with prolonged hovering or left hand turns or circuits. After 3 years of further enjoyment and some carby fiddles, I decided to fit a brand new engine and to provide continued enjoyment of the model. Soon after the new engine, I replaced the 2 bladed/fly bar main rotor to a scale 4 blader with "Bendix" head. This upgrade didn't only add extra weight but increased engine load even further, especially on warm days, resulting in it running much hotter. The model needed a check and clean-up of the very cold glow plug after every 6-10 min of flight with a huge carbon lump built up over the element. This must have been caused by the older style fuel mix so soon after I started to use new low viscosity synthetics only. Unfortunately, with the use of the 4 blader it didn't take long before the 60 size Webra had again had its day, being simply worn out! After some discussion with the Vario agent I was recommended to upgrade to a more powerful "Rossi 65/11.5cc" engine with a new tuned pipe fitted and to run-in 5 full tanks on the test stand before installation back to the model.

With the Bendix still on, the things improved, though still slightly marginal at prolonged hover and rather hard to handle in windy conditions, being a fly-barless head, so I decided to go back to the more stable 2 bladed fly bar head. It was also a no-no, to fly the model at higher altitudes, but after relocating to the seaside, that eliminated the thin air problem. However, after a few more years and a few hundred flying sessions added in the logbook, the obese Tiger developed the same old problem, starting to overheat on hot days to the point I started to not enjoy flying it as it needed a constant fiddle with the needle. While usually just hanging off the ceiling, here and there I took it out hoping that things might improve but it actually got worse with the years going by. Just about Christmas time 2020, I thought it’s a good time to overhaul the engine. Not my favourite exercise, but after watching numerous tutorial programs on the subject, I thought with my experience it should be a piece of cake.

Back to the removal of the mechanics which can be a fiddly and very time consuming job with the need for specially made up tools to remove some screws and bolts. Pretty messy after years of oil and grunge build up, it was the right time to give it a thorough service and clean up. After a huge effort to remove the turbo fan nut from the crankshaft the worse happened while trying to remove the seized fan itself and I snapped off some 10mm of

Page | 33


the threaded crankshaft in the process! A total disaster!

Stuck liner nightmare!

Even harder was to pull out the seized clutch inside the bell as no heat could be used without damaging the clutch liner. With a specially made up tool it finally budged and released itself from the tapered brass collet so it was back to the engine.

Carefully tapped and jammed out

Removing the engine cooling head with its cap and the back plate was another bit of drama, nowhere as easy as in the videos I had watched, but I never expected the horror it was to remove the piston liner! It was seized! Heating it over and over with an open up flame just wouldn't move a mill, using all the suggested tricks in the tutorial videos. Being in a desperate state, I started my own trick as a last resort using various shaped up alloy and teflon dowels to hammer it out through the back plate opening.

Liner is finally out

Finally, after some serious heating up while placed in the vice there was a first move, after tapping it out some 5mm, with the piston getting in the way, preventing it from moving any further, another set of made up thicker and thicker dowels were used to jam it out against the flange on the top of the cylinder head. Trouble was, the more I moved it out the tighter the liner became while not even halfway out! It was totally seized, almost giving up, and another half a day of heating and jamming, the liner came out without any damage, that being my main concern.

Crankshaft replacement

The piston, after its removal had a pretty nasty built up layer of black soot so I carefully scraped it off, cleaned and along with the liner, fully polished inside and out to its new shiny state. There was also considerable build up discoloration on the outside creating all the seizure inside of the cylinder, being a highly precision made up Italian engine.

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Putting it back together

The front bearing was easily tapped out from the rear but the main crank bearing was another story, needing extreme heat to be knocked out! So there I was, with all the parts nice and clean, lubricated, a new set of ball bearings, but a broken crankshaft! Even before contacting the Vario agent I placed a number of ads in various international RC forums with the hope of getting the part or even a whole engine but found out that the Rossi Co. in Italy was no more, basta! After contacting the agent I said forget it after being quoted an obscene price for the part that he couldn't even guarantee might be available. Patience paid off soon after however, when I received a reply to one of my ads, all the way from the good old USA. I couldn't believe the generous offer from the "Taylor Made Helis" of USA in sending me the part “free of charge” just to help a fellow model heli pilot. Nice to see there are still some generous people on the planet. I would think, there must be hundreds of these parts or unused old engines laying around, especially nowadays while most are electrifying, but I guess the hardest thing is to trace them. As I had everything ready to put back together, it didn't take long to have the model ready for its warmup run-in flight.

Just as I was lifting off, nice and rich for the test flight hover, suddenly there was this horrendous gear like stripping noise! Hell, what happened was my first thought, after slamming it down, but following a quick check, it wasn't the worst I could have expected (an internal gear stripping) but only a disintegrated tiny little "cruciform", a sort of plastic, rubbery part in the shape of a cross serving as a coupler / joiner along the tail drive. There are actually 3 of them throughout the drive train and the one on the mechanics part I had just replaced during the service after the original one was found to be falling apart.

Crumbled cruciform joint along the tail drive.

Back to the agent hoping to send me a couple as I had only one spare, just used. After receiving an email reply with the quote for this 20 cent bit of plastic moulding, I nearly collapsed from shock and never bothered to even reply to these slugger merchants, instead sat down in my studio with the piece of hard rubber and cut out a couple with a sharp hobby knife. Piece of cake and even better fit, rather that than being ripped off! I now call it a 'krucifix', LOL. The only problem was, replacing it took me the whole day as everything had to be pulled out to separate the 'universal' coupler joint. Strangely enough, the 3rd. one in the rudder tail fin disintegrated as well only a few more flights later but was more easily accessed after the tail gearbox removal. I would expect the new ones I have cut out from the hard black rubber will last a lot longer, also well secured now with cable ties.

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New cut out 'cruciform' coupler.

There we go, just about as complex and requiring the same attention as the real thing, are the scale model helicopter hassles! The next few flights while tuning up the engine, went pretty well, but still required some fiddling with the main needle to get the correct rpms, and while doing so I noticed some movement in the whole carby! Pretty slack of me! While putting the carby back into the engine, instead of the proper socket spanner I used only uni pliers to tighten the 4mm nut securing the clamp type bolt holding the carby into the engine casing, and after a number of flights, it got slightly loose.

Too heavy! Fully loaded in its original state at 8.5 kg

Another full day job, just to retighten the tiny 4mm nut due to my carelessness, just a part of the RC hobby and a further lesson. Almost forgot, while putting the engine back together I decided not to re-install the stock fitted copper shim under the head, hoping to increase the compression by

eliminating it. Also started to use a new fuel mix with 4% of Nitro, 16% Synth. Klotz oil and the good old Metho to top it up. There was certainly an improvement in performance, but I still found the model on the marginal side after few more flights, showing some loading up after prolonged hovering. Back on the bench I said enough is enough and on checking the all up weight with a full tank, found it to be 8450 grams! Too heavy for any 65 class 2 stroke engine! I took the canopy out and off it went, the pilot got 'sacked', the seat and all the cockpit scratch built detailing was removed, flashing strobe lights with all the electronics and batteries went out as well. Under the wing pods, I had numerous missiles made up of all sorts of plumbing supplies, all removed this time with the hack saw blade as they were well epoxied to the ply base pylons. The rotor head was removed to get rid of too much added ballast to the fly bar for stability, later adding 1/3rd. of the weight to the paddle cavities. Realizing it also changed the CG balance making the model tail heavy I had to remove the alloy tail wheel assembly, replaced now with the simple balsa made up skid and the stab fins for the Depron made ones, saving me all up 435 grams of dead weight. While filling up the fuel tank to 70% for an easy 6-7 min. flight time with some reserve left it all added up to well over 1/2 a kilo weight savings, making a huge difference the following flights.

Overhauled Rossi back in flying action

Reduction of fly the bar weight also made the model much livelier for enjoyable flying. Not so scale now without the pilot, but I'm in charge, hoping to enjoy the good old Tiger model for 3rd decade.

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Silver Wings Awards - Shoalhaven Model Flyers Club

My name is Robert Knox, I’m one of the instructors at the Shoalhaven Model Flyers Club in Nowra. One of the great things that members here enjoy, is that we have two fields. The main field at Archers Racecourse, flying off a bitumen runway, and The Fletcher’s Lane field at Meroo Meadow flying from a beautifully kept grass runway. Naturally, some prefer flying from grass, while others, the bitumen.

We’re quite an active club, recruiting new members regularly. To that end, tonight we had the pleasure of presenting two of our new members with their Silver Wings. Richard Knox had conducted Kingsley Fielden’s test, while I conducted Daniel Crowe’s Test. We met for a drink at my bar and hobby room to talk aeromodelling, and wings presentation.

Robert Knox (SMFC)

Richard Knox from SMFC in Nowra presents Kingsley Fielden with his Silver Wings – Fri 11 June 2021

Robert Knox also from SMAC presenting Daniel Crowe with his Silver Wings – Fri 11 June 2021

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Customised Tribute Scale Models I’ve been flying RC models for about 11 years, and pretty much since I started, I’ve been customising my electric foamies as tributes to, mainly, RAAF pilots. Most of these tributes are for pilots from WWII.

My tribute to RAAF 78 SQN Pilot, Gordon White

My Tribute to RAAF 3 SQN pilot Jack Quinn.

Robert Knox (SMFC)

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My most recent project has been a Vietnam Vintage Aircraft, owned by the USAF but supplemented by RAAF pilots, the OV 10 Bronco. When I choose a subject, I start to research as much as I can about the aircraft, the Squadron, and the man. What this does for me is, it helps me to create a bond with the subject pilot, identify with the Squadron, and to learn to love the aircraft, warts and all. I’ll save Aircraft images which show as much detail as possible, I’ve found that profile artwork is also very helpful (to an extent). Once I have my images, I’ll order my decals from Callie Graphics in the US. I provide her with as much detailed imagery as I have, and a dot point list of the exact decals I’m after. I’ll then ask her for a scale, proof sheet so I can print on paper, cut out each decal, and place them against the model to check for scale size. This can sometimes go back and forth over a few emails while we get it right. So, in the Broncos case, after I learned of the RAAF involvement, I started researching. A friend of mine flew Iroquois Gunships in Vietnam, then Flew fast jets for the RAAF. He introduced me to one of the Bronco pilots, Gary (Huck) Ennis. Gary told me some of his tales flying the Bronco. Armed with this level of physical and anecdotal information, I started my customisation.

Not yet assembled parts painted and drying.

Firstly the model had to be repainted with the colour that matched, as close as possible, the original

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aircraft. I went to Bunnings, with my original aircraft photos ready on the phone. I colour matched as closely as I could and purchased sample pots of the paint. To spray paint, I have a ‘Putty’ spray gun. The various parts of the airframe were prepped for painting. Each part was only lightly coated in order to avoid any runs from over spray. Each piece needed about 3 to 4 coats. Once done, I assembled the model. Other parts needed a bit of artistic painting. The engine exhausts were just the original same base colour as the rest of the frame. Green. I needed to make them look as though they were metal and had been heated through use. I sprayed a base coat of aluminium, once dry, I sprayed gold, then black while the gold was still wet. This blended nicely to give an almost perfect effect.

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With the main airframe basically painted and assembled, I needed to see how well (if) the model flew. It was at this time I conducted the maiden flight. Needless to say, she flew beautifully. At this time, I started the decal order from Callie Graphics, testing all ‘proof sheet’ decals against the model.

Testing all ‘proof sheet’ decals against the model

Once the airframe was fully painted and assembled, I chose this time to conduct the maiden test flight, before going to anymore effort, in case things went awry. The maiden flight went quite well. Some minor corrections for trim, testing the stall characteristics, it dropped a wing each time it stalled, and getting the down elevator to flap mix sorted out. I also learned that half flaps were in fact best for take-off.

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After the maiden flight, all happy with how the model flies

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With the initial test flights done, I continued to add scale detail while waiting for the decals to arrive from Callie in the US (with COVID lockdowns around the world, Callie has been swamped with orders from locked down flyers wanting to work on their projects from every corner of the planet). I made the windscreen wiper and folding step from wood skewers.

Wiper fitted

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Folding step painted and ready to fit

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The antennas and housings were made from Zip ties, push rods, wire fishing trace, and bits of foam

Towel rack antenna made from a zip tie

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A piece of foam for the housings and push rods serves nicely for the VHF, whip antennas

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Wire fishing trace for the HF wire antenna

Part of a zip tie for the cargo door handle

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Plastic model sprue shaped as door handles

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After a couple of months, Callie’s decals arrived, and I began the exacting task of checking and rechecking the positioning of each decal, and the model began to come to life.

With reference images on the iPad, decals were able to be accurately positioned

To continue next month

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GMAC 2021 Wings and Wheels Day Sunday 20th June

After the ‘wash out’ due to covid restrictions last year, the Grafton Aero Club held their wings and wheels day on the Sunday The 20th of June. The day was a spectacular success from all angles as over four thousand people came through the gates of the South Grafton Aerodrome. [Official figures]. As I drove across the old Grafton bridge, the mighty Clarence was a mirror image but the heavy looking storm clouds out to sea were giving clues as to what was coming later and the strong wind did arrive about nine o’clock in the morning. And it was very cold. On arrival [about six thirty am], the place was empty with the exception of a couple of Massey Ferguson tractors and one lone soul putting up the high vis safety bunting. As is often the case, one doing the work so that many can enjoy themselves. The arrival of the joy flight helicopter from Coffs Harbour seemed to open the flood gates and from having just a few people around, the grounds suddenly seemed full of keen spectators eager for a look at was being offered on display. On display were vintage and modern cars, race cars, a fair group of Massey Ferguson tractors that had driven some two hundred kilometres [at 22 kph] to get there, old traction steam engines, some full sized aircraft and, of course, the stars of the show, model aircraft of the radio controlled variety. The Grafton model Aircraft Club [GMAC] had ten models on display ranging from those built from used ‘vote for me’ signs, right through to jet turbines. Alex Close had on display his ‘club’ [for want of a better term] type aircraft with his RAAF Roulette sparking a lot of conversation from the passers-by and Phil Gabanski’s pocket rockets had people wondering why we spend big dollars on our bigger aircraft when one can have just as much fun for thirty dollars or so.

Brad Carey had some very nice turbines on show and to show how busy we were talking to persons who were interested, I never even got to look at his models at all even though he was right next to me within touching distance so to speak. Bob Tomlinson was there for the majority of the day and, although Bob did not display a model, he was a source of expert information to the many who visited our stand. As a long time participant of the art of flying model aircraft, Bob’s knowledge on model aircraft is vast and worth listening to. On the note, Bob is also not afraid to ask questions if he is unsure of something.

I was interested in how many people actually got the names of the jets correct while most struggled to get the name of my Lancaster right. She has been called a B52 before this day but being called a Spitfire was a bit amusing. If I had to be called

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something that I am not, guess being called a Spitfire would not be too bad.

I was very pleased to see and talk to a lot of women who were genuinely interested in getting involved in flying RC aircraft. Unfortunately, none wanted to be ‘the only woman’ at the field so I have my thinking cap on trying to come up with something to make the ladies feel welcome. At least twenty ladies took our brochures and phone numbers and I do hope this finally results in more members from ‘both sides of the fence’!

Obviously, the trick will be to make women feel comfortable in a male dominated activity. It can happen as I have been a witness to over the years in my various workplaces and sporting activities. Gentlemen, talk to your significant other half and let’s see what might be able to be done on that

score. I know that the basic facilities at some clubs are a turn off for women and that is a hard one for the clubs to do anything about. Especially if the club is on borrowed land. Erecting flushing toilets, simply, may not be possible but keeping your toilet/s clean and respectable will encourage people to use the facility. In closing, I thought the wings and wheels day was an outstanding success for the Grafton Aero Club and given the demise of our local print media, shows the worth of social media and the use of fliers and signs around the town.

For my club, the effort that was put in was commendable and I did see many of our club members wander past. Not every person who came past our stand will buy a model aircraft tomorrow, however, the seed is sown and many now know that we exist. Time will tell. Any club would benefit from doing open days like this. It does require some members to give up a day of flying but the rewards can be well worth while. I know that one of these static displays, followed by a come and try day, generated five new members for the GMAC. Not all at one but over a period of about six months. Even if the day generates one new member, that member will tell others about their experience and that is the best advertising of the lot. Positive word of mouth.

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Event Updates 1st West Wyalong National

Championships Bulletin #3 - 7th–14th July 2021 Entries. Please submit your entries NOW. You do not need to pay up front, but we need to know your intention to attend. It will also give us time to forecast our stores and requirements. Covid-19 Whether we like it or not Covid will be with us for some time to come. The lockdown in Victoria does not help and is currently restricting entries to the coming championships. If the lockdown continues and you have paid your fees and a lockdown prevents your attendance you will be refunded your entry. This national championship is not just for those who wish to compete and win a trophy. It is also a time when you can catch up with friends. At the recent MAAA annual conference no other state was willing to put up a proposal to hold a national championship so this is your last chance for at least a year. If you pay your admin fee you will be entitled to fly for fun or practice. Just speak to the CD in each area. e-Res, F5B and F5J Phil Stephenson and Brett Solanov will be looking after these events so if you have any queries, you know who to ask. Phil’s email address is [email protected] and Brett’s email is [email protected] I will be at the AB field mid-June to establish suitable landing areas for both of these events. Combat, Speed, Racing and Aerobatics Combat organiser is Robert Phippen email address is [email protected] The circles will be mown again in June. Organiser for speed and racing is Andrew Heath his email is. [email protected] Safety netting for the control line hardstand will be installed before the contest. Control Line Aerobatics, Bruce Hoffman. [email protected] Contest Directors for Free Flight Thursday 8 July and Friday 9 July Val and Steve Vickers Saturday 10 July Aaron Booth, Scramble Terry Bond, Indoor Electric Aerobatics Murray Howell Sunday 11 July Gary Goodwin Indoor Phil Warren Monday 12 July Day Scramble Terry Bond, Indoor Phil Warren, The field Surtees/Hungerford Tuesday 13 July Roy Summersby Wednesday 14 July I have CDs for all seven days organised at this moment. Documentation for the event will be available on the day before at the house. Contact is Terry Bond mob 0417 027 579 Links to flickr These are links to other events which may be of interest so have a look for your photo. 71st Nationals West Wyalong 2019 (275 photos, 1,560 views) Malcolm Campbell https://www.flickr.com/photos/motor-racing-photography/albums/72157708746426622 https://www.flickr.com/photos/motor-racing-photography/albums/72157690842081580 Warren Leadbetter https://flic.kr/s/aHsmVkfxPo some other photos. Catering I am hoping to have a mobile catering truck to service our needs at the AB field during the championships. I will provide more information on this a bit closer to the event. I will arrange for the kitchen to be open at McAllister oval. Coordinator Terry Bond






https://www.flickr.com/photos/motor-racing-photography/albums/72157708746426622

https://www.flickr.com/photos/motor-racing-photography/albums/72157690842081580

https://flic.kr/s/aHsmVkfxPo

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Pylon Racing at Pitt Town – 8 August 2021

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Warialda Fun-Fly 2021 – 28th-29th August 2021

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Coota Scale Fest – 1st-4th October 2021

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Scale Rally & Swap/Sell – 6th-7th November 2021

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Invitational Scale classic Downunder - 10th–14th November 2021

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Wanted I'm looking for a larger EDF "foamy" jet, air frame only with a large space under canopy to fit 2 x 6S 4-5Ah packs. Anyone with models like "Fly Fly" , F-86 Sabre, F-100, BAE Hawk or HTG-Mig-15 to spare, these would be an ideal, new or damaged. Please contact Joe on, 0403 116 491. Or email with a few pics preferably to [email protected]


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Deadline for submissions to Newsletter #440 (June 2021) is

Friday 25th June 2021.

Please forward any changes of mail or email address together with your AUS Number directly to the Registrar.

[email protected]


Newsletter 440 – June 2021

Documents

Transcript of Newsletter 440 – June 2021