HDFC eNews from Rod Davison, President
21st September 2018
Membership
The HDFC membership renewal window is closing soon. This is a gentle reminder to those yet to renew that payment is now required to ensure continued membership.Thanks to all those who have already renewed. Your membership is highly valued and appreciated.
Video: Bob Needham said HDFC is the best aero club
Annual General Meeting
The HDFC AGM held on Wednesday 29th August was poorly attended with only 16 members present. However, the overall snapshot showed a healthy and vibrant club. The treasurer reported a $20,000 surplus for the year bringing the bank balance to over $110,000. The previous serving committee were all re-elected unopposed. Congratulations and I look forward to working with you for the next 12 months.
60th Anniversary Reunion Dinner
The Port Panthers Rushcutter Room proved the perfect venue for the 93 attendees of the HDFC 60th Anniversary Dinner. It was fantastic to reacquaint with former members as well as mingle with the current membership. Emcee, Mark Whatson, ensured proceedings ran smoothly with Ray Lind first up to welcome guests and toast the club. The video presentation during dinner was well received, bringing back many memories. Veronica Lind did an excellent production job. Instead of a guest speaker, we had 7 past presidents recall their time with the club in a segment called ‘Memoirs of a HDFC President’. Sticking to their allocated time limit the segment proved entertaining and informative. Two Life Members, Bob Needham and Hans Westphal cut the huge cake followed by a vote of thanks from the current club president, Rod Davison. Formal proceedings concluded with the raffle draw. Ten prizes were generously donated allowing proceeds to offset the cost of the music, decorations and cake. Thanks to everyone who made this a most memorable evening.
HDFC Open Day
The next 60th Anniversary event will be our HDFC Open Day on Sunday 14th October. The public are being invited to inspect our facilities and aircraft. Members are invited to display their aircraft from 9am to 4pm. Other supporting organisations include the RC Modellers, Plastic Aircraft Modellers and RAAF Cadets. Helicopter joyflights will also be available. Food and drink will be provided throughout the day.
Working Bee
Before we open our doors to the public we need to clean up. On Saturday morning 13th October we will have a cleaning bee commencing at 8am. Breakfast will be provided. Your help is sought so if you can make it bring along your cleaning gear.
Flying School Inspection
Neil Schaeffer from RAAus flight operations will visit next Monday 24th September to inspect our Flight Training Facility. CFI Steve is busy ensuring everything is in order which we know it is.
CASA Safety Seminar
The CASA will be conducting its next Port Macquarie Safety Seminar in the clubhouse on Wednesday 10th October commencing at 6pm. I encourage all HDFC members to attend this informative evening. Food will be provided to further entice your participation. Registration is via the CASA website.
Model Aircraft Display
A permanent display of over 100 plastic model aircraft is now housed in the clubhouse. The collection was produced by Doug Fellows and donated to the club by his wife, Eileen, following Doug’s death. It has created much interest so check it out when next in the club.
Vale Ron Walesby
Ron Walesby recently died aged 100.7 years. Ron was a club member for several years. He was a legend of aviation. Always a true gentleman, Ron was highly regarded for his community spirit. Condolences to his immediate and extended family.
Ron's article "Low Flying - It's strictly for the Birds" was published in our recent Propwash.
Club Shirts
A special edition 60th Anniversary polo shirt is now available for $35. Various men and women sizes are available either through the online shop or at the clubhouse. Postage is extra. This shirt is a great momento representing 60 years of the HDFC. Get yours now to stay fashionable.
Flying Scholarships
Applications for the HDFC flying scholarships close on the 30th September. Two $1500 scholarships are offered to the youth of the Hastings and Camden Haven aged between 14 and 20 years. Spread the word and let’s support the next generation of aviators.
Propwash
Publication of the October Propwash is fast approaching. Veronica needs your articles now. Support Propwash by sending your contributions to marketing@hdfc.com.au
Pilot Proficiency Day
The September PPD was postponed due to strong winds last Sunday. It will now be conducted this Sunday 23rd September. The BBQ lunch will commence around midday. Hoping for improved weather and a good attendance.
Rosters
Please check and communicate with other team members to organise your duty. Remember to sign off when finished. Hopefully completion rate will improve over the previous roster.
24/9/18 to 8/10/18 Rod Davison, Gary Alexander, Kynan Schneider
8/10/18 to 22/10/18 Ed Godschalk, Nathan Green, Mark Crawford
22/10/18 to 5/11/18 Craig Whiting, Simon Guthrey, Nigel Byrnes
Please check website for updates.
We need volunteers. Please contact Veronica Lind if you can help out. PPD is this Sunday 23rd September and then on every 3rd Sunday of each month.
Safe and enjoyable flying