SAFA Skysailor Magazine

7 July | August 2022 SKY SAILOR “We had three great days this year, with several pilots flying more than 100km,” Rob Couper, (Launch Director & Scorer) said. “It’s not always about the distances though – it’s really measured in pilot smiles. They all went home having learnt new skills and made more flying friends.” The Cane Toads defeated the NSW Cock- roaches by an impressive 37 points. Special mention must go to the World Barbarian Bugs on 181 points who, despite their small team size, pushed the Cockroaches (180 points) into third place. State of Origin is only possible through the efforts of many volunteers. The organising committee wish to thank the 35 experienced pilots who support and mentor the newer pilots in their crew. “We are also extremely grateful to the Team Captains, Susy Goldner and Hammed Malik for Queensland, Andrew Tracey-Smith for New South Wales and Ramon Collodetti for the World Barbarian Team,” Rob said. The State Captains help pull together the pilot crews for their state and coordinate things such as morning briefings, retrieves, team T-shirts and even some of the catering. Godfrey Wenness, CFI of Manilla Paragliding and site owner, started the event about 25 years ago with the aim of helping his former students continue their pilot development. Newcastle Paragliding Club member and regular top 10 in the national championships, James Thompson is known as ‘Mr State of Origin’. From about 2004, he single-handedly ran the event. Rob Couper started helping Clockwise from opposite page: Mt Borah launch Gaggles form above launch Bonfire and fireworks Photos: Godfrey Wenness