You’ve been hearing and reading about it for months, but it’s finally here; this Saturday strap on your boots for an amazing day; gates open at 8.30 am.

Here’s just some of the exciting events.

The Gooney Bird (DC3) arrives from Melbourne around 9.30, with the joy flight operating around 10.30. At that time, we’ll also be showcasing Women in Aviation. Angela Stevenson will share with us as a group of women pilots, including our local Lucy Dorrington, are flying circuits above.

Around 11am Paul Bennet’s world class aeronautics spectacular commences with an Australian Flag Parachute drop, this guy is really ‘flying in’. This world class team is truly awe inspiring and Paul himself will be commentating from his cockpit, a second session will take off just before 2pm.

The Official Ceremony is at 1pm with our special guest Jane Bunn from Channel 7, who’s sure to be bringing great weather with her. The Travel Raffle will be drawn, the major prize is a luxury trip on the Ghan, and there are other great travel prizes, if you don’t have your ticket yet, there are just a handful left.

Over the next hour public viewing of the many aircraft that have flown in from around the country will be available, or you might like to head to the Wirraway and have a chat with Borg Sorenson who spent almost 20 years turning a pile of metal ‘sticks’ into the superb plane you see today.

You’ll be treated to the musical talents of the Pacific Belles singing group at 10, 12.30 and 2.30, with the Nhill & Dimboola Brass Band playing at 11 and 1.45.

Throughout the day ….

Take a Helicopter Joy flight, or the RAAF is offering free, tethered flights in their hot air balloon.

There are two, yes two, food courts including the fabulous Tim Bone’s toasties, so you can be sure you won’t go hungry.

Then there is the Craft fair, which is not just a market but an opportunity to watch and learn about ancient and new arts and crafts as our exhibitors demonstrate their skills.

There will be Pottery, Metal Art, Painting, Rope and Axe Handle making, Weaving, Spinning and Stitching, Jewellery, Astro Photography, Digital Etching and Timber works and others.

Scattered throughout the Airshow are a variety of Static Displays and we haven’t forgotten the kids either with a host of Children’s activities including Face Painting.

Offering something for everyone, why wouldn’t you head out for a fantastic day at the Nhill Airshow on Saturday. Tickets are available at the gate, online from www.nhillairshow.com.au, or phone Jenny on 0417 014 278 or Rob on 0428 911 387. 

This article appeared in the Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times, 10 April 2024.