PRESS RELEASE - SWAN HILL AIRSHOW FIRST IN 40 YEARS.

The Antique Aeroplane Association of Australia (AAAA) is running its Annual Fly-in and Airshow at the Swan Hill aerodrome on Sunday the 24th of April this year.  It's been nearly 40 years since an Airshow was held in the Swan Hill / Kerang region so this event promises to be something not to be missed.  Members of the AAAA will be coming from all over Australia with aircraft expected from as far a-field as Western Australia and Queensland.  Weather permitting we would expect to see around 200 Antique and Classic aircraft descend on the region over the Anzac Day long weekend.  

On display you could expect to see everything from a WWI Sopwith Pup through to purpose built, modern competition aerobatic aircraft. 

Not seen in Australia for many years, we will have a magnificently restored DeHavilland Dragon and Dragon Rapide in the air together.  Both airliners of yesteryear, they played a crucial role in the settling of Australia as the backbone of the flying doctor service in the pioneering years.  From the same era we will see the DeHavilland Gypsy Moth and its successor, the Tigermoth performing an aerobatic display.  Other Vintage and classic aircraft on display will include the DeHavilland Chipmunk, Auster, Boeing Stearman and a Vintage Glider.          

Moving into the heavier metal, there is nothing quite like the sound of a V12 Merlin in the WWII Mustang fighter.  This aircraft, from Tyabb VIC is an Australian built, 2 seat version and as well as performing in the Airshow, will be available for Joyflights.  Representing the Russians, also from Tyabb, we will see the V12 Allison powered Yak 9 fighter.  This will be a first for an Australian Airshow.  In addition to this we are expecting ex-Vietnam vets, the T28 Trojan & Cessna Birdog to do a mock battle display.  The Southern Knights, 'North American Harvard' formation aerobatic team will be performing their polished routine.  From the Australian stable we will have Winjeel military trainers,  performing formation & aerobatics,  complimented by a handling display from our own Wirraway fighter.  There should also be a strong representation from the recently imported Russian Yak 52's and Chinese Nanchangs.           

Finally representing the more modern aircraft, Pip Borrman will be doing some high adrenalin aerobatics by in his purpose built Edge 540.  We'll also have aerobatics from the well known Pitts Special.  There will be a Helicopter display in the Robinson R22 and the Mid Murray Flying Club will be demonstrating the Gazel Ultralight that they use as a training aircraft.

In addition to flying displays, there will be a number of other attractions including: vintage cars & trucks, stationary engines, military vehicles, market stands and food stalls to add to the atmosphere of the day.  Should you want to experience the thrill of the weekend with a joy flight, they will be available in the Winjeel, Birdog & Mustang both before and after the show.  The Mid-Murray Flying Club will also be offering Trail Instructional Flights so you can have a go at the controls and take that first step towards getting your own pilots licence.

It stands to be a great day, so come out and let our members share with you their love of aviation.

Gates will open at 9:00am and the show starts at 12:00 noon.  Tickets are: $10/Adult, $5/Child, $25/Family (max 2 adults & 3 children on a family ticket).

Join us on our DC3 for a day trip to this event. Cost for seat on DC3 flight $295 inc GST.
We depart Essendon at 0800am. Check in is 0730am. The return flight will be as soon as is practicable after the airshow. Flight time each way approx 1 hour 20 minutes.

To book CLICK here, or phone (03) 9820-4422