SAFA Skysailor Magazine

41 May | June 2023 SKY SAILOR vring within a smaller part of the ground-han- dling site. When on-site, if possible, launch from a location on the surface that ensures room to manoeuvre given the conditions at the time. #1669 – PG plucked off launch, Flinders PIC arrived at Flinders Golf Course (Vic) to fly their paraglider after a stressful day at work. PIC was eager to launch and didn’t spend a few moments observing and assessing the local weather conditions. On wing inflation, PIC was plucked off launch and dragged through bushes before lines snagged causing the wing to collapse. No damage or injury. Before launching, spend time appreciating local flying conditions. This will better prepare you to assess whether conditions are suitable to proceed to launch and determine an appropriate launch strategy and flight plan if assessed as suitable to fly. Heading further north to Bright, Gundow- ring, and then Corryong. #1805 – Bright Open, PG failed launch PIC was competing in the 2023 Bright PG Open (Vic). The pilot tripped and fell on launch due to a failed launch sequence, sustaining a dis- located shoulder. In the process of regaining their footing, they then rolled over and the shoulder relocated. No damage to equipment. Pilots should aim for a given phase of the launch sequence to be optimal before progressing to the next phase. This mitigates the risk of the next phase becoming risky.