Please be aware the August launch date has been changed to the 18th August 2013. This is because the Logan Ekka show holiday resides on a Monday. As the launch site is based in Logan and with a number of members either living or attending work in this area, it has been decided the following weekend which is not a long weekend is better suited.
We look forward to seeing you on the 18th.
The morning started quite gloomy with quite a bit if cloud hanging around. The cloud remained for the entire launch schedule, with some light drizzle. This was not enough to deter the launchers or the crowds.
We were able to maintain a full launch program despite the fact that cloud restricted our launch ceiling to about 1500ft for a short time. Approximately 800 spectators turned up for the morning.
Ross from Victoria, Asher from WA and Craig from New Zealand attended as welcome guests. Despite the gloomy and cool conditions, Craig commented that it was still warmer then back home.
It was also nice to catch up with Brian, one of the QRS founding members.
53 rockets took to the skies ranging from A to M motors. It was great to see so many of the members involved in multiple launches. There were even a few trial members who joined and launched for the first time.
Dean and Larry launched a couple of J and K power rockets which provided great entertainment for the crowd.
One of the feature events for the day was the drag race of the blue (Wildboy) and pink (Majestic) ‘crayon’ rockets on G76 motors. After an entertaining build-up of the boys verses girls race, the rockets were launched jointly by Shannon and Greg. Both rockets launched almost simultaneously and descended under pink/blue parachutes (as you would expect). We’re not too sure who won the race but it was supported with great enthusiasm from the crowd.
We ran a raffle also with a LPR kit and packet of motors including a free launch with QRS as a prize. About 200 tickets were sold thanks to the efforts of Shirley and Garry. Gemma won the raffle and was truly ecstatic to receive the prize. We’re hoping to see her at the August launch to try out her new rocket.
The highlight of the day was the launch of Ari’s Oz Thunder rocket on a M1297 motor. The rocket had to be set up further away than normal due to the motor size. Even with the threatening skies, we’re happy to report that the rocket had a text book launch and recovery. The roar, exhaust colour, smoke and slow lift off had the crowd gasping. There was a quite a walk involved to retrieve it but it came back without a scratch.
Who doesn't love a rocket - the bigger the better - and there are no bigger homemade rockets than those at the Queensland Rocketry Society Launch day.
Next Sunday (July 14), they will launch between 50 and 60 rockets at their launch site at Cedar Grove. Some of the rockets are up to three (3) metres tall!
LAUNCH INVITATION
The Queensland Rocketry Society Inc. (QRS) would like to cordially extend to all interested persons and members of the Australian Rocketry community an open invitation to join with us for our July launch. This will be a public open launch day. For those who have not experienced one, it is a chance for the QRS to display the pastime of rocketry to the public. We will be advertising the event to many media outlets including newspapers, TV and radio. Based on past experience, we can expect up to 1,000 visitors.
The launch program will be similar to the usual non advertised events but with a few more special launches. One super special event for March will be the launching of Ari Piirainen's OZ Thunder rocket on an M motor. This will be a exciting experience. Another special event will be a drag race for the pink and blue Crayon rockets (a boy's v girl's race).
LAUNCH DETAILS
Date : Sunday, 14 July, 2013
Range Open : 0800
Range Closed : 12.00
Ceiling : 5,000 Ft AGL
(A NOTAM will be posted with Air Services Australia Office Brisbane)
DIRECTIONS
If you need details of how to get to Launch Area 2 (LA2) at Cedar Grove, please visit http://www.qldrocketry.com and ckick on 'Launch Dates/Directions'
SPECIAL NOTES FOR THE DAY
* As usual with this type of event, we would request some additional assistance with the organisation. We are requesting volunteers to assist with the traffic control, bar-b-cue, bump-in and bump-out duties. A separate email has been distribured to members with the details of volunteer duties required. We would really appreciate your assistance.
* Wristbands will be required for all members who are flying on the day. This helps the LCO/RSO keep track of all relevant participants. Please note that if you do not have a wristband, you will NOT be able to fly. These can be collected from the RSO table when you sign in.
* Members will still be able to push the launch button, however ONLY the LCO will be permitted to physically arm and prep the launch controller.
TRA CERTIFICATION FLIGHTS
Certification flights will be conducted at this launch for anyone seeking TRA certification.
IN THE EVENT OF UNFAVORABLE WEATHER
This launch event is subject to weather conditions on the day of the launch over which we have no control. Adverse conditions such as rain, high winds and limited visibility will affect the ability to safely launch from this location and the launch will be rescheduled.
If, on the day of launch, you suspect that this may be case, you are encouraged to check this post again for updates or contact 07 3333 1655 and follow the prompts to local clubs. A cancellation notice will be posted at the launch site shortly after 7:00 AM on the day of the launch.
Hope to see you there.
Which rocket soar the highest?
Jimboomba Times article leading up to the 14 July 2013 Public Launch
Ari Piirainen on Extra with Doug Murray
