Planes buzzed overhead at Ettamogah on Saturday as aviation enthusiasts came together to show off their flying skills.
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Model aeroplanes of all shapes and sizes raced down the runway at the Twin Cities Model Aero Club before lifting off into the sky.
People from as far away as Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra travelled to take part in the club’s seventh annual scale rally, for those planes that are replicas of full-sized aircraft.
Club president David Balfour said the aviation scene on the Border was growing because the club was home to some of the best facilities in the country.
“This is not a competition, it’s a rally where people come together to admire each other’s workmanship and flying ability,” Mr Balfour said.
“We are located on an 80-acre block of land and have a full-length 150-metre concrete runway, which is pretty rare for model aeroplane clubs in Australia.”
Model aeroplanes ranged from half a metre to three metres in size, he said.
After 45 years in aviation, Mr Balfour said model planes were a great way for youngsters to get a head-start in the industry.
He said he owned six model planes, which he designed and constructed himself.
“People don’t understand the exact same forces that allow a 747 to fly apply to a model,” he said.
“It gives you a good basic understanding of aeronautical engineering, a lot of pilots start careers by flying models.
“A big advantage of this club is it’s a great social point for anyone, particularly retirees and people interested in aviation.”
Mr Balfour said club members fly seven days a week and welcomed new members.
More information can be found at tcmac.com.au/.