SAFA Skysailor Magazine

26 SKY SAILOR May | June 2024 to E winds. Both launches offer large, well-kept grass surfaces. Bald Hill is a hot spot for pilots and tourists alike, and unlike some coastal sites, thanks to its extensive cliff line, Stanwell can accommodate many pilots in the air at the same time. On a good weekend day, it’s not unusual to have over 100 pilots in the air, plus hundreds of spectators observing from the top and the bottom of the hill, creating one of Australia’s busiest flying sites. Flight As you fly over the rugged coastal terrain, the unique coastal thermic lift will help you glide along the escarpment towards the beach or back to a top landing. The length of the escarpment creates a unique opportunity for pilots to fly a distance of 9km to the north and in excess of 25km to the south on a good day. It’s not unusual in ideal wind conditions to see experienced pilots logging 40km plus point-to-point flights from Bald Hill. Typical soring heights are 350 to 400m ASL near Bald Hill, and when the wind is right (especially if thermals are present), pilots can reach heights exceeding 600m further down the escarpment. The spectacular views are a certain highlight, including the bird’s eye view of the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge which extends along the Grand Pacific Drive. Landing zone There are two main landing options at Bald Hill – a standard landing on beautiful Stanwell Park beach below or a more advanced top landing in one of the two designated top landing areas. Tandems are not allowed to top land at Bald Hill. Those who land on the beach can return to the top of the hill either by car within five minutes, or by walking 20 minutes up a new well-maintained walking track. Hazards Stanwell is suitable for pilots of all skill levels from beginner to advanced, however, flying outside the recommended wind ranges of SW to E can be very dangerous. When the wind turns past E to NE, the hill generates rotor, making it hazardous to launch. Serious accidents have occurred in these conditions. As a coastal site, it’s also important to monitor wind speed, as winds can pick up quickly. Southerly changes often come in fast Site overview: Bald Hill, Stanwell Park, NSW