The Soaring Club of Tasmania, located in the Southern Midlands Council, is a sports club that specialises in gliding. With a strong emphasis on safety, affordability, and inclusivity, the club offers a thrilling and unique experience that is as close to flying like a bird as humanly possible.
Gliding, or soaring, is a sport that appeals to a wide range of individuals. Whether you dream of a career in aviation or simply want to experience the freedom of flight, the Soaring Club of Tasmania is the perfect place to fulfil your aspirations. Unlike traditional aviation, gliding does not rely on an engine. Instead, glider pilots must rely on their skill and understanding of the environment, meteorology, and sources of lift to achieve success.
The club offers a comprehensive training programme led by experienced instructors. Members have access to two-seat training gliders, allowing them to progress to single-seat gliders as they gain confidence and expertise. As a volunteer-run organisation, the club is able to keep costs affordable, ensuring that gliding remains accessible to all individuals without straining their bank accounts.
One of the highlights of the Soaring Club of Tasmania is the Air Experience Flight, a thrilling ride that allows participants to soar like an eagle. Prior to the flight, an instructor provides a ground briefing, explaining the features of the two-seater dual-control glider. Participants will then be securely strapped in and towed up to their release height by a powerful tow plane. From that point onwards, they become true soaring beings, seeking out rising air currents known as thermals to climb on solar energy.
It's not uncommon to encounter an eagle in the thermal as well. While a qualified flight instructor handles the takeoff and landing, participants will have the opportunity to take control of the glider under the guidance of their instructor.
The Soaring Club of Tasmania offers gift vouchers for the Air Experience Flight, which can be purchased securely and online using a credit card. The vouchers start from $220 and can be redeemed on most Sundays, weather permitting. It is advisable to contact Richard, whose details can be found on the club's contact page, prior to arriving to ensure a smooth organisation of the flight. Participants are advised to read and understand the Terms and Conditions before flying.
The club also provides updates on flying days through its Gliding Tasmania Facebook page. Typically, flying takes place on Sundays, but there may be additional opportunities on Saturdays and occasionally weekdays depending on the availability of crew and suitable weather conditions. Planned gliding days and the rostered crew can be found on the club's Roster page.
Join the Soaring Club of Tasmania today and take your first step towards becoming a qualified glider pilot. Regardless of age (minimum age for solo flights is 15) or previous experience, anyone with good health can learn to glide. Soar like an eagle and experience the sheer joy and freedom of flight.