Sport Aircraft Association of Australia (SAAA) vice-president David Brown is now on the countdown for the nation’s only aviation event that unifies both recreational and sport aviators for what will be a spectacular weekend of airborne action.

“Ausfly is the biggest general aviation fly-in and air display in Australia, and is modelled on the world’s number one airshow and fly-in at Oshkosh, Wisconsin in the USA run by a similar organisation called the EAA,” Mr Brown said.

“This is an opportunity for friends to get together from across the country, to share their passion for all things aviation and to see the displays from various industry groups and suppliers to industry. 

“There are many seminars and workshops to help educate pilots on all manner of new products, safety initiatives and how to get the most out of their investment.”

The inaugural Ausfly last year was labelled an enormous success in terms of attendance and according to Mr Brown the buzz and excitement it generated will be similar this year. 

“The flow-on effect this year has us mildly concerned that the crowd will be bigger, so we need to be prepared for a fantastic week,” he said.

“There is greater exhibitor participation and some very high-quality displays both on the ground and in the air to be seen and enjoyed. This has proven to be an excellent venue for the major aviation interest groups and organisations to get together, build stronger working relationships and just share each others activities.”

So what is there for you to see at this amazing event? Aircraft types will vary from ultralights, gliders, aerobatic and the ever popular war birds, along with homebuilts and various new factory aircraft from around the world. 

“There will be Paul Bennet and his Aerobatic Pitts, the RAAF Roulettes, Matt Hall and his Air Race plane, plus many others involved in the flying display program,” Mr Brown said.

“The Narromine-based Wright Flyer Replica is also expected to be flown subject to wind conditions.”

Ausfly is something that needs to be seen to be believed with something like 600 aircraft taking part in the event during the course of the weekend, with many others set to drive in from around the country, hence according to Mr Brown there will be a large display available for anyone wanting to walk among the planes.

Narromine was chosen as the location for Ausfly as it is the base for the Sport Aircraft Association of Australia (SAAA) and they are the lead organisation in bringing the event to reality. 

“There is additional support from Australian Warbirds and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and participation from a large number of other related groups,” Mr Brown said. 

“So it is a big team effort and it really does put Narromine back on the map in terms of its aviation heritage, having been a WWII training base, and for many years hosting other fine events.”

Ausfly will take place from September 12 to 15 at the Narromine Airport. Flying displays will be on Friday and Saturday at 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

The displays will start with RAAF Roulettes and Matt Hall on Friday, and on Saturday a few surprises including a RV formation showing off the ever popular home built aircraft from Van’s Aircraft in the USA.

Flying in is $10 per aircraft and entry is $5 per adult, and children under 18 are free. Half the proceeds of the gate and parking proceeds is donated to the Narromine VRA, and last year that achieved a very valuable donation, and allowed the VRA to purchase a new outboard for their rescue boat.

As an immense amount of work goes into organising an event like this, a big thankyou must go not only to the sponsors but to the Narromine Shire Council for its great deal of support and assistance with infrastructure and helping set up the venue, along with a large number of local volunteers including the VRA for their assistance. “Make sure you bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat and a big smile,” Mr Brown added.

For further information visit www.ausfly.com.au 

“This is an ideal forum for children to get exposed to aviation and perhaps one day look towards a career or as a recreational pursuit, so the more children we can welcome the better,” Mr Brown said.

“This year there will be more access for up close viewing of aircraft."