SAFA Skysailor Magazine

21 September | October 2022 SKY SAILOR Road flight is very technical as there are pivotal points along the way that need to be navigated. As the coastline changes direction through- out the 76km, there are places where the wind is parallel to it, meaning during these sections there is no lift, so pilots need to be able to get to the next area of lift, which may be 8km away, before they get too low and have to land. “In coastal flying, you need the wind to be hitting the coastline straight on, this allows the air to rise as it goes over the cliffs, creating lift, similar to water hitting a rock – air goes over and around the terrain,” Jim explained. “During this flight we are surrounded by water, and in some parts there are no beaches to land on, meaning the only option you may have is water, so being able to read the weather and wind is vital.” One of the most dangerous things a hang glider pilot can do is land in water, especially surf, so it is crucial for pilots to have extensive skills and experience to avoid this scenario. Jim says on average the trip takes two to three hours depending on conditions with the fastest time of completion being one hour and 17 minutes and the slowest being six hours. On any given trip there could be between six and 15 pilots, however, not everyone manages to complete the full journey to Apollo Bay. Jim started his initial hang gliding course in 2002 and although he has been doing it for 20 years now, flying about 100 hours every year, he is still learning. His first successful attempt of the Great Ocean Road was in November 2010. Above: Happy pilots who completed the trip (l-r): Dean, Hugh, Jim, Adam and Rohan Opposite page: Aireys Inlet Lighthouse - me flying back to Bells Beach Right: Jim with Lorne in the background Left: At Apollo Bay - happy to have made it Photos: Courtesy Jim Wynd