HDFC eNews from Rod Davison, President
15th March 2018
HDFC Aircraft Fleet Survey- Results
Thanks to all members who took time to complete this survey. Especially those who provided quite detailed submissions providing much food for thought. We very much appreciate your input. Twenty one responses were received representing approximately 14% of the membership.
HDFC Committee Viewpoint
Committee agree that option 4 is the best future direction. The first step will be to advertise Foxbat 7395 for sale at $ 57,000 negotiable. The CTLS will not be put on the market until a later date.
Aircraft Hire Rate
In examining the fleet renewal, aircraft hire rates came under scrutiny. Comparison with other Clubs and Flight Training Facilities indicate the HDFC rates remain substantially lower than most. Good for our members, but making it difficult to re-equip. As from the 1st July, 2018, the aircraft hourly hire rate will increase by $10. I am sure all members will recognise the need for this increase.
Aviation Security ID Card- ASIC
Steve Smith, as our CFI, is now an approved ASIC agent. This means Steve has the authority to verify original identity documents on collection of your new ASIC.
PMQ is a security airport. Display of an ASIC is required when airside.
Electricity
Everyone complains about electricity costs. Our Club is no different with a huge bill for the last quarter. Please help constrain costs by being vigilant on departure from the Clubhouse. Last to leave please check air conditioning, fans, lights and hot water are off. Thanks for your co-operation.
Come Fly With Me
‘Come Fly with Me’ is a book outlining the history of the HDFC up until 2008. In our 60th Anniversary year, it is planned to update and reprint the book. Original author, Elaine van Kempen, has agreed to this task. Funding will be via a Bicentennial Cultural Grant through Port Macquarie Hastings Council.
Ex-member Contacts
During our 60th Anniversary Year we would like to re-engage with as many ex-members as possible. Please help by emailing any contact details you may have to president@hdfc.com.au
Omaka and Oshkosh
During 2019 several HDFC members are planning to attend either one or both of these aviation events. Why not join us. Plan early. Event details are:
Classic Fighters, Omaka, New Zealand, Easter 2019 (April 19th-21st).
EAA AirVenture, Oshkosh, Wisconsin USA, Last week in July, 2019.
Harry Bellott
HDFC Life Member, Harry Bellott, passed away on March 12th, 2018.
Harry was deeply involved with the HDFC during the 1980’s & 90’s. Harry was Club Captain for several years commencing in 1984. He was also involved in the Clubhouse extensions where his building prowess was greatly utilised. His carpentry skills flowed over in to the production of a magnificent Luton Minor aircraft. In 1992, he created the Harry Bellott Shield, to honour the HDFC Pilot of the Year. This award still continues and the shield can be seen proudly hanging on the Clubhouse wall.
Harry’s wake will be held in the Clubhouse he helped build on Friday 16th March, 2018. A fitting tribute to a dedicated HDFC Life Member and a true gentleman.
Parallel Taxiway
An Airport stakeholder meeting was hosted by PMHC regarding the Parallel Taxiway Project. Steve and I represented the HDFC in what was an informative meeting. Still in the design phase, it is proposed the taxiway will be developed in three stages. Much of the discussion revolved around position of run-up bays. This is a long term project which will only commence when funds become available.
Palmers Island
Around thirty people thoroughly enjoyed the annual pilgrimage to Palmers Island. Six aircraft braved the Saturday weather while many drove. Bob & Annette McIntyre again proved the perfect hosts, making us feel most welcome. Thanks to Mike Bullock for organising a brilliant weekend.
CTLS Maintenance
The Neuform constant speed propeller is currently undergoing its 750 hour inspection and overhaul in Brisbane. The aircraft is expected to be out of service for at least a fortnight. Apologies for the inconvenience.
Fly-In and Fly & Spy
The Fly and Spy observation trial returns on Saturday 28th April. Organise your team now for this fun flying event.
In conjunction with Fly and Spy, the Club will host a Fly-In. Invite your flying friends to come visit for a weekend of flying fellowship in beautiful Port Macquarie.
Member Aircraft
Trevor and Gayle Kee have just taken delivery of the best looking Aeroprakt Vixxen in Australia.
Mike Bullock is the proud owner of a striking black Sonex. Delivered from Western Australia last week, it is still in its test flying phase.
New member, Doug Toppazzini, makes good use of his Zenith Zodiac 601. Doug is also working on a Sonex project.
Another new member, Ivan Young, regularly flies a Cirrus SR22. He is also building the only subsonex jet in Australia.
Propwash
This month's Propwash celebrates Women In Aviation.
To all women in aviation, Let your dreams take flight!
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.
12/3/18 to 26/3/18
Ed Godschalk, Nathan Green, Mark Crawford.
26/3/18 to 9/4/18
Craig Whiting, Simon Guthrey, Nigel Byrnes.
16th March - Steve Smith
23rd March - Bruce Dunlop
30th March - John Hayler
6th April - Mike Bullock
13th Apri l- Ray Lind
18th March - Sue Stubbs
15th April - Helen Smith
Safe and enjoyable flying