The following is a very brief history of our club written for the benefit of the many newcomers who may be curious as to the clubs' beginnings.
Wagga Model Aero Club was first started in 1966 when a group of enthusiasts got together and decided to form a club. The first meeting had an attendance of 15 modelers. Over the years this membership has grown steadily. Our first flying field was a stock reserve and it was known as the silverlite field. Behind the silverlite service station at the junction of the Sturt highway and the Olympic way.
Over the years there has been many changes to the club and to the field. Since 1970 we have had the use of a paddock on this property "Connorton" with the kind permission of the owners to whom we are most grateful
In 1974 the World War II event was started. The first year saw 11 entrants mostly from Canberra, Sydney and the local clubs. Over the years this event has grown to become the largest and longest running event of its type in Australia. And we are very proud of this achievement this event is always held on the closest weekend to Anzac day and in our small way pays tribute to the many pilots and aircraft that flew in the major wars and between.
In 1977 two club members broke the Australian long distance and endurance records by flying a model aircraft nonstop distance of 118 kms or 2 hrs 45 minutes. These members were Col Taylor and John Tennant.
1983 saw member Col Taylor represent Australia at the world championships in America in model aircraft aerobatics
December 1993 Wagga Model Aero Club played host to the Australian national model aircraft championships. These were held over 7 days over Christmas/new year. Several thousand visitors came to Wagga for this event.
1996 a reunion was held for our 30th anniversary and previous members came from interstate to help us celebrate with a big birthday party. Lots of yarns and stories were told and all those who attended had a great weekend.
We have also had the honour of other member's representing Australia. Previous member Wayne Hadkins in electric flight world championships 2002 in Switzerland and Brendan Tucker helicopter world championships.
Today many facets of aero modeling are covered by the members these include model helicopters/electric power/scale models and fun fly models.
Flying is on most Wednesday mornings and at weekends.
Monthly meetings are held at the field 8ks south on Olympic way on the second Sunday of each month at 11 am followed by a sausage sizzle and flying.
Compiled by Hazell Tennant - Jan 2009
