On Anzac Day, Central Coast Aero Club (CCAC) at Warnervale will conduct a formation flypast consisting of five aeroplanes based on the coast and all flown by local aviators who trained at CCAC.
For the first time, the annual flypast has secured approval from the Civial Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to drop down to 500ft over Gosford and The Entrance.
The club has flown a formation flight across the Central Coast for a few years now in remembrance and to celebrate the ANZAC sacrifice but says the CASA approval has made this year more special.
” We hope to time the flight to coincide with the beginning of their RSL ANZAC Day march,” a CCAC spokesperson said.
The route will pass over Gosford and Ourimbah before tracking to the coast, overflying Avoca and Terrigal, Bateau Bay and Tuggerah before arriving over The Entrance,
The formation will be led by 19-year James Greenfield.
His grandfather at the same age was serving in the Royal Navy during WW2.
James, who has been leading formation flights since he was 16, well before he had a driving licence, will be leading his father, ex-ADF pilot Bryan who will be flying in number four position.
Brian, a part time instructor at CCAC, has a close Anzac connection and the aircraft he will be flying was the first aircraft he flew in as a ADF pilot trainee almost 30 years ago.
James’ wingman Talon Eder, and the second element led by Corne Grobbelaar are both coasties.
“Talon and Corne both have young families and have volunteered their time to make sure this year’s Anzac Day commemoration has a fitting send off,” the club said.
The fifth aircraft is piloted by local ex-RAAF instructor Gary Thomas.
Flying an ex-military trainer CT4, he spent over 20 years teaching defence force pilots at Tamworth before settling on the central coast.
Gary trained many of ADF pilots who subsequently went on to serve overseas in the various armed conflicts Australia participated since the start of the century,
“With the inclusion of the history our two military trainers have, and the enthusiasm shown by all the pilots, its going to be an experience we hope diggers and family members alike will enjoy. Lest we Forget,” the club said.
View the full list of Anzac Day, Friday, April 25 locations, service times and road closures at centralcoat.nsw.gov.au/anzacday
A tremendous thrill for everybody concerned. Keep the Anzac spirit alive.