SAFA Skysailor Magazine

69 SPRING 2026 | September-October-November SKY SAILOR #1901 – Inadvertent PG launch results in injury, NSW A low hours PG2 pilot was ground handling their wing at Shark Park (NSW), in winds at the top end of safety for a paraglider (12-14kt). They were alone, wearing all of their safety equipment and had no intention to launch. They were plucked up by a gust, and whilst attempting to use the brake to return to the ground, were carried towards a busy road and power lines. The pilot then switched to using the C-lines to de-power the wing, but in doing so was lifted to 3-4m AGL. The wing col- lapsed in a full stall and PIC has dropped to the ground, landing on their back. Members of the public assisted the pilot to pack the glider and ensure there were no immediately threatening injuries. The pilot assumed they had a shoulder injury so transported themself to Wollongong Public Hospital Emergency Department. It transpired that they had in fact suf- fered a fracture of the C7 vertebrae re- quiring emergency medical treatment and subsequently spent four days in hospital. Low hours pilots should always be accompanied by a more experienced pilot when ground handling, as they can provide advice on the choice of location and assist in assessing the suitability of the conditions,