Cobden Day Trip Report

We couldn’t have asked for a much better day!

Planning a day-trip for the midst of Winter is always a gamble, but on 16 July, LFC did just that, and came up with a pearler of a day. Six aeroplanes departed Lilydale at around 10.30 in bright sunshine, with not even a hint of a zephyr to create any concern at all. Some pilot opted to go coastal to Torquay then inland, whereas others stuck to the coast all the way past the 12 Apostles. One team, Steve and Bill in DZP, opted for a city orbit then over Avalon and direct to Cobden.

The arrival was impressive. Doug Fraser in his Pipistrel Virus beat all others in by a good half-hour, but the other five aeroplanes all arrived in a two-minute window bang on midday. We couldn’t have timed it that well if we’d planned it that way!

Members of Cobden Aero Club were on hand to help shuffle aeroplanes around the parking areas and some even scored a lift into town and the famous Cobden Bakery. Others strolled the 1 km or so. It was still a brilliant day and a good walk never goes astray …

Cobden Aero Club has about 30 members, but good club room facilities, a sealed runway and avgas available. It is possibly one of the most over-looked airports in Victoria’s western district.

The weather for the trip home was fantastic … but forecast to improve.

All-up the day worked remarkably well for something scheduled for July, and we have already extended an invitation to Cobden Aero Club visit Lilydale some time soon.

Have a look at Cobden Aero Club’s Facebook page for a full photo album of the LFC visit.

Aircraft

Bonanza JLF – Louise, Jock and Bronson

Archer ZZW – Mark, Steve and Dennis

Jabiru 5122 – Barry and Silvia

Pipistrel 8657 – Doug

Victa XVV – Lee and Martin

Cardinal DZP – Steve and Bill