I support the thrust of Stuart's post.
I don't know of ANYBODY outside of the Gliding Community who are aware that
there is such a thing as "Cross Country Soaring", let alone reasonable
distances. And that includes many in the GA & RAA community.
In my view it is "Cross Country Soaring" that is the greatest potential hook
for the growth of long term members for the GFA.
The main impression held by the general public is, in my view, that we launch
then fly around over the launch point for less than half an hour while the
glider descends, and then we land. While that may be seen as interesting to
some, such an impression is hardly a turn-on to many potential members who have
potential to dedicate themselves to the sport and have the warewithall to buy
new machines.
Re videos ....... I reckon that "A Fine Week of Soaring" gives the most
realistic impression of what the sport is really all about ......... and what a
buzzzzzzz it can be.
Regards Geoff
----- Original Message -----
From: Stuart & Kerri FERGUSON
To: 'Dave Shorter' ; 'Discussion of issues relating to Soaring in Australia.'
Sent: Wednesday, June 20, 2007 1:48 PM
Subject: [Aus-soaring] Promoting Gliding
The following extract from Dave's post sounds very encouraging, and I do not
doubt a word of it.
Entries will be limited to 60 gliders. As Lake Keepit is a very popular site,
with great variety, (and friendly people) we expect a full field. We were
oversubscribed last time and unfortunately had to turn away some late entries.
I suggest you enter early to avoid disappointment.
What it does say to me is, those of us involved with the sport are very
enthusiastic about it and the popularity of events like this, the Narromine Cup
etc reinforce this view. On the other side of the coin we have the discussions
about the demise of gliding due to the age profile of the majority of those
taking part and the lack of new members.
I know the GFA are spending money talking about the problem, gathering
statistics and holding meetings, but we are not seeing the required outcome
which is increased membership numbers, this should be the number one KPI for
this project.
Gliding is a challenge, it is exciting, and it is Hi-tech, but is that how
the public perceive it? Most of the public and a majority of GA pilots think
that gliding is going round in circles within gliding distance of the local
airfield on a Sunday afternoon, why? Because that is all they see us doing.
What I believe needs to be done is make the sport more visible and the way to
do this is via the electronic media. The GFA (because this what they need to
do) need to have produced short video documentaries that would be suitable for
TV and other visual electronic media 5 minute filers, 30 and 60 minute sport
documentaries similar to those seen on Fox Sport etc based round some of our
big events, JoeyGlide is a prime target for such an activity. If they can make
some of the boring activities I have seem made look interesting in these
productions just imagine what could be done with gliding.
Are we up to the challenge?
SDF
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Dave Shorter
Sent: Wednesday, 20 June 2007 11:49 AM
To: Aus-soaring List
Subject: [Aus-soaring] NSWGA Comps at Lake Keepit in November;
Entries are coming in for the NSW State competition being held at Lake Keepit
from Sat Nov 10th thru Sat Nov 17th. Entry forms and Local Rules are listed on
our website www.keepitsoaring.com. (Note new website address).
If you're interested I suggest you make early arrangements as we expect a
good crowd at this event.
Both multiclass competitions (std, 15m, 18m and open) and club class are
being catered for. Club class comps at State level are a great way for less
experienced Club pilots to try comp flying. Club class also gives those with
older gliders a chance. Club class tasks will all be Assigned Area Tasks. We
intend to set a mixture of fixed tasks and AAT for multiclasses.
In the interests of safety, carriage of a working Flarm or equivalent
proximity warning device will be mandatory. Fitting Flarm units to your glider
will be your responsibility - Lake Keepit Club will not be providing extra
Flarms for competitors. Nigel Andrews at RF Developments
http://www.rf-developments.com/page008.html supplies Flarm units in Australia.
Accommodation - Onsite cabins and beds will be reserved for workers in the
comp and you should make your own accommodation arrangements. Camping at the
airfield is available - bring long electrical leads. Otherwise the Lake Keepit
Caravan Park is holding accommodation for the Gliding Club - be sure to mention
you are part of the Comp when requesting bookings.
http://www.stateparks.nsw.gov.au/keepit.html (Its filling fast) There is also
the NSW State Sport & Recreation Centre nearby
http://www.dsr.nsw.gov.au/lakekeepit/index.asp. Nearest motels are at Manilla
and Gunnedah approx half hour drive away.
Entries will be limited to 60 gliders. As Lake Keepit is a very popular site,
with great variety, (and friendly people) we expect a full field. We were
oversubcribed last time and unfortunately had to turn away some late entries. I
suggest you enter early to avoid disappointment.
We'll look forward to seeing you in November.
Dave Shorter
email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] (Note - no "au" in address)
11 Lighthouse Crescent
Emerald Beach NSW 2456
Ph/Fax: (02)6656 1979
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