SAFA Skysailor Magazine

41 November | December 2024 SKY SAILOR the cliff, flying over the sea towards a lower cliff. After soaring briefly, they attempted to land on the designated beach in front of the lagoon. However, PIC misjudged the strength of the headwind and the westerlies slowly building up with glass off near the beach, and inadvertently landed in the lagoon. No damage or injury. All pilots are reminded to monitor wind con- ditions at all times, even when ground handling, and especially when squall conditions are evident. Always be mindful of your capabilities and limits and have a plan to deal with unintend- ed launches given the site and conditions. If not comfortable, leave the gear in the bag. #1991 – PG tree landing, Teewah, Qld/S PIC was flying their paraglider at Teewah Beach (Qld/S). Whilst coming in for a top- landing, they instead landed in a tree. No damage or injury. Ensure you maintain sufficient vertical and horizontal distances from obstructions when attempting any landing, to give margin for error when conditions change. #1995 – PG pilot tumbled down launch after unsuccessful launch, Qld/S PIC was launching their paraglider at Mt Widgee (Qld/S). The wing inflated correctly, but PIC sat in the harness at the edge of the launch site before positive flight was gained. The harness contacted the terrain, causing a forward pitching motion and flight was lost. The pilot tumbled down-slope for 15-20m resulting in lower back and torso pain. Pilots are reminded to not sit back in the harness early and remain legs-down and out of the harness on launch until positive flight is confirmed and there is safe clearance to terrain. That’s it for this issue. Fly safe. Forms and Documents SAFA Documents are now available in the Member Zone of the SAFA website . To access them select then select ‘Documents’ in the left-hand menu. These documents are constantly updated, so download them only when required. DO NOT save them for later use. The office will not accept outdated forms. Documents available to the general public are accessible on the website under: ‘Pilot Tools’  Forms & Docs Visiting Pilot Membership Pilots requiring Visiting Pilot Memberships please go to https://safa.asn.au/ pilot-tools/visiting-international-pilots/ SAFA Office Manager