Airshow 2019 - Avalon

[Homestar]

So, it’s back on again! Who’s going? I’ll be there from early to late every day so if anyone wants to say hi, let me know. 👍

The ADF have a large contingent there this year as a trial for the 2021 show which will be huge for the Centenary of the RAAF. They’ve got a lot more than usual going in, so should be good. 👍

Will post pics as they come - nothing there yet but the hourly Jetstar flights. 😁

AIRSHOW 2019 - AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW - 1 to 3 March 2019 GEELONG VICTORIA (https://www.airshow.com.au/airshow2019/PUBLIC/index.asp)

[weeds]

I’ve got to get to this show one day.

[Homestar]

Put 2021 in your calendar - it will probably be the biggest ever and will have a huge contingent from the USA turn up in support too. The US usually bring half a dozen planes in but on a special they’ll bring dozens like they did a few years back. Haven’t heard what they are bringing this year but last time they bought over 2 x F22’s, a B52 a C17 and a couple of B1’s - which pretty much is the loudest thing I’ve ever witnessed when it took off after the show - Fingers in my ears and it still hurt. I was less than 100 meters from the runway when it throttled up though. 👍😁

Just do it. 👍

I’ll post as many pics as I can, I do get plenty of time to wander. The Trade days are the best before the huge crowds come in on the public days. Expecting 100,000 a day for the 3 public days which is on par with last time.

The B52 is a strange beast, and leaks more oil than every Land Rover I own put together. They had several large trays of kitty litter under various locations to stop it running all over the apron. 😁

[Homestar]

First pic today - the Media Preview was on earlier, but missed most of that. The Roulettes, C-17 and a couple of fighters (didn't see which ones, was inside) did some stuff.

This arvo, the B-52 came in. Saw it touch down but wasn't quick enough to snap that. Did get a pic of it taxing up to the keyhole to be put on display though.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7881/40207808073_33fbd1c3ba_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24g2wwe)B-52 - 2019 Melbourne Aishow (https://flic.kr/p/24g2wwe) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

[87County]

thanks Gav, excellent and interesting photo - they sure look menacing.

[Homestar]

They sure do. Was only 100m from it - amazing old bird. [emoji106]

Plenty more to come - I'm sure they'll be a lot more on Monday when I'm back.

[Homestar]

So pretty much everything is on the ground as far as the static displays goes, and there is a LOT to look at. The ADF have gone to town this show and have a huge presence - both RAAF, Army and Navy. Got a bit of a look today before being rudely interrupted and having to go and do some work...

So here's a few pics.

Chinooks everywhere - there's at least 5 of them here - 2 from the Singapore Air Force and 3 Australian Army units from what I could see. 2 of them are tucked up the end of the runway so hard to make out but one was flying around at one point too. The 2 Singapore units are static as is one of the Australian Army units.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7812/33328742508_083aa6ed97_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SM9vZw)IMG_0158 (https://flic.kr/p/SM9vZw) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7902/40239457283_6be2ec275b_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJJg)IMG_0156 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJJg) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7881/46480842344_26b09737f7_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dPmt4w)IMG_0180 (https://flic.kr/p/2dPmt4w) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Then onto the C-27J Spartan - the replacement for the Caribou.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7877/32261996347_38a3c2e663_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/R9Tawk)IMG_0159 (https://flic.kr/p/R9Tawk) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7828/40239457073_76b4ee266f_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJED)IMG_0162 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJED) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Onto the C-130 Hercules

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7860/40239456863_04c6d5e365_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJB2)IMG_0164 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJB2) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Pilots and Load Master were all very accommodating today as they are all set up ready to go and not many people to talk to, so got a full guided tour by the whole crew, and a quick lesson on it's key features - that's me in up front next to the pilot - photo taken by the Load Master. [smilebigeye]

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7809/46289742725_c1c5a1e0c1_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dwt2Nv)IMG_0172 (https://flic.kr/p/2dwt2Nv) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

The Cockpits are off limits during the public days so always happy to get in early and get a good look.

Getting bigger as we go - onto the biggest - the C-17. Still blows me away how big this puppy is.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7895/46289741835_44048b5cbb_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dwt2xa)IMG_0182 (https://flic.kr/p/2dwt2xa) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7908/40239456703_43eae88a4e_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJyg)IMG_0184 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJyg) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

And that's when my phone rang and I had to do something a little less interesting....

Will be back at the C-17 in the morning for a tour before it gets busy and hopefully a cockpit tour as well - I did manage to get around 1/2 hour chatting to the Pilot of the US C-17 up in the cockpit at the last Airshow, but wasn't allowed to take pics at the time.

More to come as I have time.

[Fourgearsticks]

Working a fire down near French Island a few weeks ago and flew into Avalon for the first time for a load of Mud, place was deserted, never been there before and wondered what all the gazebo's were doen stretched out for miles, thought must be a bloody big wedding [tonguewink]
Took me a few days to work out they were getting ready for the airshow [biggrin]

[d2dave]

Went a few years back and loved it. Won't be going this year but will try to get there for the next one.

[travelrover]

So pretty much everything is on the ground as far as the static displays goes, and there is a LOT to look at. The ADF have gone to town this show and have a huge presence - both RAAF, Army and Navy. Got a bit of a look today before being rudely interrupted and having to go and do some work...

So here's a few pics.

Chinooks everywhere - there's at least 5 of them here - 2 from the Singapore Air Force and 3 Australian Army units from what I could see. 2 of them are tucked up the end of the runway so hard to make out but one was flying around at one point too. The 2 Singapore units are static as is one of the Australian Army units.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7812/33328742508_083aa6ed97_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SM9vZw)IMG_0158 (https://flic.kr/p/SM9vZw) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7902/40239457283_6be2ec275b_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJJg)IMG_0156 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJJg) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7881/46480842344_26b09737f7_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dPmt4w)IMG_0180 (https://flic.kr/p/2dPmt4w) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Then onto the C-27J Spartan - the replacement for the Caribou.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7877/32261996347_38a3c2e663_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/R9Tawk)IMG_0159 (https://flic.kr/p/R9Tawk) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7828/40239457073_76b4ee266f_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJED)IMG_0162 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJED) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Onto the C-130 Hercules

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7860/40239456863_04c6d5e365_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJB2)IMG_0164 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJB2) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Pilots and Load Master were all very accommodating today as they are all set up ready to go and not many people to talk to, so got a full guided tour by the whole crew, and a quick lesson on it's key features - that's me in up front next to the pilot - photo taken by the Load Master. [smilebigeye]

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7809/46289742725_c1c5a1e0c1_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dwt2Nv)IMG_0172 (https://flic.kr/p/2dwt2Nv) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

The Cockpits are off limits during the public days so always happy to get in early and get a good look.

Getting bigger as we go - onto the biggest - the C-17. Still blows me away how big this puppy is.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7895/46289741835_44048b5cbb_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dwt2xa)IMG_0182 (https://flic.kr/p/2dwt2xa) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7908/40239456703_43eae88a4e_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJyg)IMG_0184 (https://flic.kr/p/24iPJyg) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

And that's when my phone rang and I had to do something a little less interesting....

Will be back at the C-17 in the morning for a tour before it gets busy and hopefully a cockpit tour as well - I did manage to get around 1/2 hour chatting to the Pilot of the US C-17 up in the cockpit at the last Airshow, but wasn't allowed to take pics at the time.

More to come as I have time.Pretty cool photos. Some of those Spartans are based just down the road from us at RAAF Richmond. Pretty sure they have the same engine prop configuration as the C-130 's as they sound very similar.

[DieselDan]

One of the advantages of working in the You Yangs is that you get to see/hear all the practice fly-bys as they make a loop over the park!

[Homestar]

Some more pics.

Started off the day with a few pics of the general display areas before the gates opened.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7857/40259533803_b9e5f62bcf_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24kACMa)IMG_0215 (https://flic.kr/p/24kACMa) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7833/47224462141_0a33aa16bf_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eX4Hjv)IMG_0216 (https://flic.kr/p/2eX4Hjv) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7905/47224462371_dc8a8a4bff_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eX4Hot)IMG_0214 (https://flic.kr/p/2eX4Hot) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Frontline have a lot of the current auction items here, including some of the PC-9's and plenty of the Kiowa's.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7828/47224461931_df72859c47_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eX4HfT)IMG_0219 (https://flic.kr/p/2eX4HfT) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7818/32282406067_c05bf4da9f_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RbFLC4)IMG_0220 (https://flic.kr/p/RbFLC4) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

And plenty of Perenties, Mogs and Macks too. All the Perenties have new paint and canvas. A mix of GS's and FFR's
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7861/40259533613_f0bed16ed3_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24kACHT)IMG_0224 (https://flic.kr/p/24kACHT) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7924/47224461761_07b6b17bd8_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eX4HcX)IMG_0223 (https://flic.kr/p/2eX4HcX) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Then it was time to check out a few more of the Military Aircraft. Started at the B-52. This one is from 1960. Was chatting to the crew and the current policy is to keep them in service until 2050. They seem to think if they keep them to 2050 they'll keep them until 2052 which will be 100 years since the first flight of the prototype. Seems incredible that an Aircraft could still be in service after 100 years. They have never had airframe overhauls or anything - they have basically upgraded the weapons systems and capabilities over the years, but not much more than that. Flight controls are all still manual, no automation has ever been introduced to how they fly.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7836/32282405597_a3cbea1fc8_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RbFLtX)IMG_0229 (https://flic.kr/p/RbFLtX) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7895/47224461281_d83b235e27_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eX4H4F)IMG_0231 (https://flic.kr/p/2eX4H4F) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7921/40259532443_400b7b25a7_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24kACnH)IMG_0232 (https://flic.kr/p/24kACnH) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7877/40259532803_5c1b73c9b8_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24kACtV)IMG_0228 (https://flic.kr/p/24kACtV) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

[Homestar]

Then onto a full guided tour of a KC135 Supertanker. Seems I didn't end up with a pic of the exterior.... Will get that sorted...

This thing is older than the B-52 - First flew in 1957 - this is one of the original A models or which the US Airforce took delivery of 400 of these.

Anyway, no stairs available, so tarmac entry up a ladder better suited to people a little thinner and lighter than me, but I made it.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7885/32282405357_d00e3ccd1b_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RbFLpP)IMG_0233 (https://flic.kr/p/RbFLpP) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7915/47224616321_68177ce03a_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eX5v9M)IMG_0247 (https://flic.kr/p/2eX5v9M) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Wasn't game to try and get into the cockpit - I doubt I would have got out again.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7899/40259532243_1d2bf98d1b_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24kACjg)IMG_0234 (https://flic.kr/p/24kACjg) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

View across the keyhole
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7914/40259532123_883e3788f2_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24kAChc)IMG_0235 (https://flic.kr/p/24kAChc) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Then down the back for a look at how the refuelling is done. Quite a bit of room for other missions as required.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7858/40259531903_d35b4ad6ee_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24kACdp)IMG_0241 (https://flic.kr/p/24kACdp) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Bit hard to see but this is where the Boom operator lies down and guides the boom for refuelling - anything from fighters to B-52's. An F-16 can be refuelled in 2 minutes, a B-52 stays connected for 25 minutes to get its fill. The KC-135 can stay in the air more than 12 hours as 'A Gas Station in the sky' as they put it.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7817/32282405147_43c6535ed8_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RbFLmc)IMG_0239 (https://flic.kr/p/RbFLmc) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

The other side of the glass from the ground.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7892/47224460591_892a799139_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eX4GRM)IMG_0242 (https://flic.kr/p/2eX4GRM) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Was a great tour - that won't be open to the public come this weekend. One of the benefits of being able to chat to the crews before the gates open. Big thanks for Justin from the US Airforce for a very informative nuts and bolts tour.

[87County]

Great pics Gav - I look forward to seeing whatever you post - thanks.

good to see you included a photo of your new Bushmaster :)

[Pickles2]

I/m not going to this year's Air Show, but I went to the last one, and it was,......FANTASTIC,....as I have no doubt this one will be.
BUT, the traffic, getting there etc?
We were lucky enough to have spent a few days holidaying in Queenscliff and were coming back home today along the Geelong Rd,.....no problems for us, but the traffic out of Melbourne was gridlocked from just out've Melbourne,....I reckon ya'd have had about a 2 hr delay to get into the air show?
So, IMHO, better to go by train.
Pickles.

[Homestar]

Ok, sorry for the delay, work got in the way a lot this weekend. Here's some more pics. Haven't got anywhere near covering everything here - it's been the biggest Airshow ever here - so much more than last time and apparently it will be bigger again in 2 years for the RAAF Centenary. I'd strongly recommend anyone who finds these pics interesting to come take a look in person in 2021 - you won't be disappointed.

So the Point Cook RAAF Base Museum had a the old and the new in it.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7814/32282404587_859d1d2f46_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RbFLbx)IMG_0257 (https://flic.kr/p/RbFLbx) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

And one of the new PC-21's which are replacing the PC-9's as the RAAF trainers. Quite a bit bigger than the PC-9 and a lot more power too.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7873/32282404417_65fe531971_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RbFL8B)IMG_0255 (https://flic.kr/p/RbFL8B) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Interior of a Chinook.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7811/46347708975_338f27ce90_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA89B)IMG_0263 (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA89B) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

[Homestar]

A few random pics of some of the Commercial Private Jets, etc - no idea what any are, just here for those interested.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7887/46538693814_cee58e964b_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsYhE)IMG_0269 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsYhE) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7840/46347708355_f8b20e5b51_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7XV)IMG_0273 (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7XV) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7891/46538693164_96d9132c4e_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsY6s)IMG_0274 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsY6s) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7870/46347708065_7f2f3c918b_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7SV)IMG_0275 (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7SV) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7884/46347708115_df0734431d_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7TM)IMG_0278 (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7TM) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

The crowd building yesterday - despite the heat, it was a huge turnout. Just shy of 100,000 through the gates yesterday I'm let to believe.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7840/46538692604_9eb5511105_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXVN)IMG_0284 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXVN) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Trying to get out last night, we were stopped at the taxiway to let the F-35 go park up for the night.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7824/46347707855_d88207e33b_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7Pi)IMG_0288 (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7Pi) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

[Homestar]

The VMVC put on a very good show as they have done for the last few shows. They put a lot of work into their setups for the public to view and should be commended on their efforts - I took a few people through there this morning who haven't ever really seen any ex Military vehicles in any numbers and they all commented on how impressive the site was, so if anyone here is from the VMVC, please pass this onto the club, well done.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7834/32320393847_1568a1e8f2_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3t4M)IMG_0292 (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3t4M) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7903/46538691604_d9a487fc5a_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXCy)IMG_0293 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXCy) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7823/32320393567_798e6b7629_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3sYX)IMG_0294 (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3sYX) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Lots of H1 Hummers
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7828/46538691514_db26ae2c38_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXB1)IMG_0295 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXB1) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Hello - What do we have here...?
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7843/32320393477_8b2d259ecf_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3sXp)IMG_0299 (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3sXp) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Yep, Mick Morriseys LRPV
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7828/46538691114_fe0a2baf23_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXu7)IMG_0301 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXu7) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7822/46538690904_4b641bb2e4_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXqu)IMG_0302 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXqu) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7810/46347706675_d4c4076797_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7sX)IMG_0303 (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7sX) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7869/46538690704_c9c4bcdf8e_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXn3)IMG_0304 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXn3) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7802/46538690764_febde1835a_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXo5)IMG_0305 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXo5) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7883/46538690314_c6ba758385_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXfj)IMG_0306 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXfj) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7846/46538690274_3ec7c2ad8e_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXeC)IMG_0307 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXeC) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7836/46347706255_1887c10aba_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7kH)IMG_0308 (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7kH) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7800/46538689924_2636a80c86_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsX8A)IMG_0309 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsX8A) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7872/46538689784_9d415a46ab_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsX6b)IMG_0310 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsX6b) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7923/32320390917_6a5c102084_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3scg)IMG_0311 (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3scg) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7885/46538689544_721d93779c_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsX23)IMG_0312 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsX23) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7837/46538689344_f3abc7b3ad_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWXA)IMG_0313 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWXA) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7822/32320390407_574d99cb5d_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3s3t)IMG_0314 (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3s3t) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7919/46538689134_4b99f686a8_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWTY)IMG_0315 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWTY) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7879/46538688754_7b066608d5_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWMq)IMG_0317 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWMq) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7900/46538688884_2b408e6fed_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWPE)IMG_0318 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWPE) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7861/32320389697_786e7da70c_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3rQe)IMG_0319 (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3rQe) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

And for the eagle eyed who spotted the 101 in an earlier pic -
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7909/46538688474_836ff35efd_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWGA)IMG_0321 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWGA) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Also in that area was a large marquee set up like some trenches with information and weapons on display.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7910/46347707555_9d8646bc89_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7J8)IMG_0291 (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA7J8) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7832/32320394317_ba80d796d2_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3tcT)IMG_0289 (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3tcT) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickrhttps://farm8.staticflickr.com/7853/46538692344_89af3fd50c_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXRj)IMG_0290 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsXRj) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

[Homestar]

And for the Drone fans - there was a a lot of very expensive hardware on display. There was also an area under a big top tent where they were racing some, but never got a chance to get there when this was happening.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7880/46347704855_b6d546ac83_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA6Vz)IMG_0324 (https://flic.kr/p/2dBA6Vz) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
IMG_0325 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWzG) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7873/46538687864_2a2c9e7b01_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWw5)IMG_0326 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWw5) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7906/46538687844_8734ca27be_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWvJ)IMG_0327 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWvJ) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Here's something worth talking about - the drone hanging on the steep angle behind the guy standing there is a racing drone believe it or not - it is HUGE. They have been designed for TV/Stadium racing so they can be seen easily. This monster accelerates faster than an F1 car and has a top speed of 230KPH. The angle it is hung on is the angle it flys at - the crossarms holding the motors are basically wings, so it gains lift from the top and bottom spa. Total power is 60KW! The builders of these are trying to get an international race series together with these in the coming year or so - will see what happens.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7899/32320388407_baa2aa7c31_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3rrZ)IMG_0328 (https://flic.kr/p/Rf3rrZ) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7829/40297580153_036e3cfd5e_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24oXCCH)IMG_0330 (https://flic.kr/p/24oXCCH) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

This is from the same crowd and is also a very fast racing drone. These are 500mm long and run 2 cameras - the FPV for the pilot and an HD camera for broadcast. Again, with the popularity of drone racing soaring, they are designing a class big enough to see on TV.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7881/46538687474_70cb8913f2_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWpm)IMG_0329 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWpm) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

And now to some of the most serious Cinematographic setups you'll see. This one has a Red 8K camera on it - with the gimble, around $100K for that bit alone, then the drone to carry it.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7818/46538687244_638088ff29_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWko)IMG_0331 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWko) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

Then there's this - words fail me on this one and I didn't get enough time to ask the price. Bit hard to see on the pic, but this has a large film camera slung underneath it.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7820/46538687194_ee11889116_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWjw)IMG_0332 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUsWjw) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

And a couple of others.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7896/40297579813_e433eb17b0_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24oXCwR)IMG_0333 (https://flic.kr/p/24oXCwR) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7847/40297580143_9f4dd93c5e_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24oXCCx)IMG_0334 (https://flic.kr/p/24oXCCx) by Gavin Gregory (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150806513@N06/), on Flickr

[Homestar]

Well, that's all the pics I took sorry. Hopefully there are some others here that attended that can top this up a bit. I've missed taking pics of so much, but it's been a very busy week for me so my time was limited to actually enjoying the show as much as I would have liked. The 4 back to back 40 degree days have really tested our equipment and we've been busy keeping it all running as it should for the customer.

I am seriously thinking of dropping some big dollars on a Corporate ticket for all 3 public days in 2021 and telling work to continuing without me on that one.[bigwhistle] . If anyone else is interested in joining me, you have 2 years to save up. Weekend package for the best of the best available to mere mortals like us is around $1,800 for the weekend... [bigsmile1]

[grey_ghost]

Thanks for taking the time to take and post up all the pics Gav.. 2021 [emoji848]🧐

[Homestar]

Thanks for taking the time to take and post up all the pics Gav.. 2021 [emoji848]🧐

Start saving your pennies mate. [smilebigeye]

[Homestar]

Yes, the train is by far the easiest way in. There's a free shuttle bus service that runs from Lara Station to and from the Show via a route that is basically off limits to other vehicles so they get you right to the front gate and back with no fuss. Running every 10 minutes or so.

Driving in is ok if you plan to get there by around 9am. They run 2 lanes off the highway then out to 3 lanes once off the highway all the way in and split the 3 lanes into 3 different car parks, so it's actually quicker once you're off the freeway than it is approaching the Point Wilson turn off. With 100,000 attending on Saturday there's always going to be huge volumes of traffic to something like this - can't be helped really as you can't have an Airshow where there isn't a HUGE amount of room and a very large runway.

All worth it for the punters that came - as you said, it's a fantastic event. This years was much bigger than 2017 and the 2021 will be bigger again due to the RAAF Centenary.

And if you think getting in is bad, try getting out 15 minutes after the F-22 has flown and there's a mass exodus each day. It's happening right now. [biggrin] I'll be here until around 7pm so easy run out then.

It's almost done and dusted now, so watch out for the traffic again in 2021!!! [biggrin]

[Pickles2]

Friend of mine went yesterday,..went by train etc.
Like I said, I saw MASSIVE delays yesterday,....my friend said there was anything up to a FIVE HOUR delay, if you were going, by road, later rather than earlier, during the day.
Yes, I've heard that 2021 will be the go,....I have it in mind to go, but I will not be driving there!
I went to the last one, which was brilliant.....Great for Vic, great for Aussie,.....no negatives at all.
Pickles.

[Homestar]

While I agree delays are massive I did have to fact check you on the 5 hour delay bit sorry as that seemed a bit out there. Had a chat to the traffic control centre as we had of our blokes in there the whole show - peak delay from Ring Road to Carpark was around 11.20am on Saturday - just under 2 1/2 hour trip at that time. Delays pushed back to around the Old Geelong road turnoff at Hoppers at its worst from what I'm told. Still massive yes, not disagreeing going by car is a bad idea but your friend has embellished things a bit sorry. Sorry - I didn't do this just to prove a point or anything but I don't want people to think it's not worth going because of some off hand comments as I'm heavily involved with the show.

[Pickles2]

While I agree delays are massive I did have to fact check you on the 5 hour delay bit sorry as that seemed a bit out there. Had a chat to the traffic control centre as we had of our blokes in there the whole show - peak delay from Ring Road to Carpark was around 11.20am on Saturday - just under 2 1/2 hour trip at that time. Delays pushed back to around the Old Geelong road turnoff at Hoppers at its worst from what I'm told. Still massive yes, not disagreeing going by car is a bad idea but your friend has embellished things a bit sorry. Sorry - I didn't do this just to prove a point or anything but I don't want people to think it's not worth going because of some off hand comments as I'm heavily involved with the show.
All good Gav, no issues at all, and I do remember your comment re parking fees last year about those fees going to local communities.
I was coming back into Melbourne yesterday from Queenscliff round about 11-11.30am, and the traffic was actually STOPPED not far from the bridge,....banked up "forever",....stopped,...I saw it, and that was just coming off the bridge. Can't say what the actual delay was, only to say, I'm glad I wasn't involved in it,....I would've done a uey & gone home!
I think that more thought needs to be given to run off roads into the event, and making sure that maybe there should be more actual entrance gates into the event to avoid back ups. Even 2.5 hrs is an absolute no no,.....IMHO. 2021 is going to be HUGE, so what is the situation going to be then? The organizers know this event is going to be huge, they need to look at this issue, & sort it.
Pickles.

[350RRC]

There were a couple of Hercs and the Globemaster doing circuits and passing over my place
on the weekend along with a couple of fighters which I assume were an FA 18 and the 35 flying together?

Was the big mofo twin engine jet flying below the Hercs an RAAF refueler?

Just interested, DL

[cjc_td5]

I think traffic conjestion will always be an issue with events like these. The RAAF has run airshows at RAAF Pearce just north of Perth occasionally. They get huge crowds but last time we sat in a car for 3 hours queueing after the event just to get to the carpark entrance gate. People just need to chill and remember the special show, which if everybody complains about re the traffic, then the easy option is to not have the air show at all...

[Homestar]

There were a couple of Hercs and the Globemaster doing circuits and passing over my place
on the weekend along with a couple of fighters which I assume were an FA 18 and the 35 flying together?

Was the big mofo twin engine jet flying below the Hercs an RAAF refueler?

Just interested, DL

F-35 did its own show. The F-22 Raptor from the US did a run with the 18's then some more on its own. The big twin engine jet - a cargo plane yeah? That was a KC-390.

[Ancient Mariner]

YouTube (https://youtu.be/0DCIpspsySQ)




AM

[Homestar]

YouTube (https://youtu.be/0DCIpspsySQ)




AM

Nice! I got a great personal guided tour of the KC-135 that landed at 13.46 including lying down in the tail section with the refuelling Master for a quick ‘how to’ on operating the boom. 👍

Great to see footage of the both - amazing old birds. The one shown landing first was delivered in 1957 - one of the first and still going strong. 👍. It was older than the B-52 that was there - that was delivered in 1960 and are still believed to have another 20 plus years left in the Airframes. It was also still waiting on its new glass cockpit that is being rolled out through the fleet - still all old school.

[Homestar]

There was also a bit of trouble during the show for one of the US C-17’s. It’s still parked out the back waiting on parts.


https://youtu.be/k_QZTzS5V2Y

[weeds]

There was also a bit of trouble during the show for one of the US C-17’s. It’s still parked out the back waiting on parts.


https://youtu.be/k_QZTzS5V2Y

Amazing footage.......what cannot take off with three good engines??

[4bee]

Gavin, thanks a huge bunch for presenting all these images which must have been a formidable undertaking. I for one really appreciated your effort.:TakeABow::TakeABow::TakeABow::TakeABow:

[Hugh Jars]

Amazing footage.......what cannot take off with three good engines??

Depends on the speed at which the bird strike occurred.
Below V1 is usually a decision to reject the takeoff, as these guys did.

[weeds]

Depends on the speed at which the bird strike occurred.
Below V1 is usually a decision to reject the takeoff, as these guys did.

Oh I should have put a tongue in cheek emoji....

Yes I assume if there is an option to pull out of the take off that’s what they would do.....

[4bee]

Depends on the speed at which the bird strike occurred.
Below V1 is usually a decision to reject the takeoff, as these guys did.


Does current Flight Training incorporate this sort of emergency event &/or can it be done in a Simulator?


Or is it a case of "Get out there lads & hope to f you don't need it?"

Certainly requires split decision making & action.

[Dips lid]
[smilebigeye]

[Pickles2]

Thanks to Gav & everyone for posting all the pics & videos etc,...looked like a FANTASTIC event,....good for Vic, good for Aussie,...ALL GOOD.
Pickles.

[Hugh Jars]

Does current Flight Training incorporate this sort of emergency event &/or can it be done in a Simulator?


Or is it a case of "Get out there lads & hope to f you don't need it?"

Certainly requires split decision making & action.

[Dips lid]
[smilebigeye]
The last time I did a 'practice' rejected takeoff (or a V1 cut) in the aircraft was in 1996. Since then, it's all been carried out in simulators during the cyclic training program. That's far safer, and can be repeated over and over (if needed), and with no wear and tear on an aeroplane :)

Most of us have done several real RTO's during our careers. My last one was about a year ago in Darwin. It was "low" speed (below 80kt).

[4bee]

Thanks HJ, I guessed that would be the case. Would save on tyres & brakes as well, I reckon?[smilebigeye]

Is it a "**** the pants" experience when it actually happens?[bighmmm]

[Hugh Jars]

Thanks HJ, I guessed that would be the case. Would save on tyres & brakes as well, I reckon?[smilebigeye]

Is it a "**** the pants" experience when it actually happens?[bighmmm]
Not really. It certainly startles you, but we train for it all the time.
You're right about tyres and brakes to an extent. If the crew resolves the reason for the RTO and it doesn't require engineering attention, we have to look at some tables on brake energy during the RTO before we have another go at takeoff. The reason being there is potentially an enormous amount of energy (heat) generated during the manoeuvre that may need time to cool before another takeoff is attempted. In extreme (high energy RTO's) the plane may not be able to be moved, as there is a risk of the fuse plugs melting in the wheels, deflating the tyres. That's not good for anyone...

Here is an example of a high energy rejected takeoff of an A340:YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=irTizOVM-3U)