We are all dependent on good relations with the farmers and public bodies who own the land where we fly.
Here are some guidelines to ensure that you and other pilots will be able to continue to fly:
- ALWAYS CHECK with local pilots before flying at new sites.
- ALWAYS ASK PERMISSION to fly unless you are absolutely certain that the owner allows use of the site without asking.
- Most inland and pastoral sites are closed between August and October. CHECK AGAIN at springtime as most farms have pregnant and newborn stock that can easily be frightened and injured.
- DO NOT show displeasure or abuse an owner if permission is refused. This could hamper getting permission in the future.
- ALWAYS GET PERMISSION to take a vehicle onto a property. Ensure that vehicles without gliders are not taken onto the property. Put all gliders on one car rather than have a convoy crossing the property. If stock is nearby, drive slowly.
- LEAVE GATES as you find them. Gates may be closed to keep stock in or open to allow stock to feed. Ensure that all pilots and drivers understand.
- USE STILES and gates where ever possible. If you need to cross a fence, cross at a post or strainer post.
- AVOID hay, standing or cut, unless permission has been given to cross it.
- AVOID landing in paddocks containing crops or stock. Carefully move off crops to avoid damage.
- DO NOT LIGHT FIRES at any time.
- DO NOT TAKE DOGS on to farms or property.
- DO NOT SMOKE during fire risk times.
- DO NOT disturb plants or machinery; move around it.
- LEAVE NO RUBBISH.
- Children to be supervised at all times.
- After landing out following a cross-country flight, the pilot or driver must contact the landowner to seek permission to enter to retrieve the pilot/glider. If no one can be found, at the least leave a note explaining why you were there.