April, 3rd

Narromine

All night long there was a strong wind blowing and this morning it didn't look too promising - again! Lots of drizzle and therefore we don't even think of taking off. Just a few enclosed three-axles go for a little flight.

A replica of a "Fieseler Storch" (smaller scale and with an Australian permit) demonstrates an unbelievably slow flight. There are only about half a dozen other trikes here, and just as many Gyrokopter parked on the perimeter.

Our trip to the big zoo in the neighboring town of Dubbo gets canceled - not enough people signed up for it. Paul Middleton's wife (he is a Chairman at AUF) takes us along for a shopping-trip to Dubbo, but Gisela is not happy because she can't find the shoes she so wanted to get.

Upon return to the airfield we shlepp Gisela's trike to the Avionik-Shop. For a couple of days the wiring acted up and as we didn't carry along our equipment, we couldn't detect what was wrong. It turns out that it was just a broken contact in the small cable going into the radio. From now one we shouldn't have any problems with our radio-communication.

But there was some bad news today: After talking to an offical at the aviation authorities it is clear that we won't get permission to fly over the famous Opera House in Sydney.The procedure of applying for a special permit at all the administrations involved is just too difficult - and would probably take too long anyways. We'll just have to make the best of it.

In the evening there is a big dinner in one of the hangars. It takes forever until every single one of the 400 guests gets a turn at the buffet. And then we are in for a surprise: When announcing the winners for the nicest aircraft, best self-built plane, etc., our name is called together with Ben from Perth - and we have to come to the podium.

We actually win the price for flying the longest distance to get here. Ben, who started with his Kitten Fox from Serpentine as well, gets a nice watch and we receive to silver-platted Champagne glasses. What a nice suprise - we thank everyone for the honor and for their support along our 5.000 kilometres long journey.