SAFA SkySailor Magazine

6 SKY SAILOR March | April 2024 Sports aviation is the ideal hobby for anyone who craves adventure and offers a chance to see the world from a completely different perspective. Attracting new pilots is key to ensuring the survival of this, the world’s most thrilling sport, so new members, like paraglider pilots Emma Pane and Wesley Natgzam, are vital in keeping the sport on the radar for future generations. What is it that encourages people to get their wings and how can SAFA continue to grow the sport? According to Emma (33) and Wesley (38) it was their love of outdoor sports and living in close proximity to a popular paragliding launch that inspired the pair. Since obtaining their pilot licences last year, Wesley in April and Emma in November, they have plans for cross-country flights and haven’t ruled out competing one day. The support from their flight school, Airology in Bright, Victoria, encouraged them through the rewarding experience of getting their licences, and the ongoing support of the SAFA pilot community keeps them inspired. We spoke to Emma and Wesley about para- gliding, their goals, achievements, as well as what they love so much about flying. What was your training experience like? The nine-day PG2 course involved long days to catch the early morning and late afternoon Flying into new adventures together