SAFA Skysailor Magazine

61 SUMMER 2025/2026 | December-January-February SKY SAILOR If the forecast and observations indicate squalls are likely, do not launch. Supervised pilots should always seek the advice of a supervisor. Do not place yourself in a position where turbulence may be present, in this case in lee. Supervisors must keep an eye out for the pilots they are supervising, and supervised pilots should always pay heed to their supervisor’s advice. #1772 – PG bush landing, Murrell’s, Vic PIC was flying their paraglider on their first visit to Murrell’s Beach (Vic). With conditions decreasing they were unable to make the designated LZ and descended into vegetation. No damage or injury. If flying at a new site, ensure you are able to identify landing zones, both from the air and the ground. In decreasing wind conditions ensure you have a clear line to a safe landing zone. #1829 – Unexpected PG landing along ridge off Portsea launch, Vic A new PG2 pilot arrived at Portsea (Vic), a site they had visited during training, with their new equipment which they had been ground handling prior to this day. They received a proper site briefing from supervising pilots and were assisted with their first flight. On their second flight, PIC struggled a little to get into the harness after launch, and strayed into the path of an oncoming pilot, which their supervisor warned them about. In turning away, PIC over-applied brake input, lost altitude and descended into vegetation without damage or injury. When a new harness is acquired, hang it from a suitable mount and adjust the settings to suit. Ensure you can get in and out with minimal effort, remembering to hook your thumbs into the carabiner hang points to push yourself back in; do not push using your risers. Fitting a foot stirrup, if suitable mounting points are available, will greatly assist. On launch, have one foot inside the stirrup loops and the other outside to assist in locating the stirrup in the air. Always remember that brake inputs must be gentle and progressive. #1831 – PG collision, Kilcunda, Vic PIC was flying their paraglider at Kilcunda (Vic). They were flying low to the ground on the right side of the beach near the cliffs, but encountered unexpected sink and collided with the hill. They packed up their glider after the incident and walked out with minor internal bruising injuries.