As many are now aware, after serving for a number of years, David has retired from his position of Chief Flying Instructor of the Hunter Valley Gliding Club. He has been replaced by Morgan Sandercock who was recently unanimously elected to the position at a meeting of the Club’s Instructor Panel. Morgan has large boots to fill, but I have no doubt he will be totally capable of handling the position.

Regarding David. I would like to express in a few words my gratitude and no doubt the gratitude of the club members for the outstanding manner in which he carried out his duties whilst in that position, particularly as regards his oversighting of flying safety.

David’s attention to safety standards, pilot supervision, Instructor training, oversighting of club rules, aircraft progression, attention to paperwork etc. etc has been outstanding.

Having worn CFI shoes myself for a goodly number of years, I am quite aware of the demands and responsibilities placed upon that person, particularly as regards the impact  on one’s private flying. It does become wearing. I would also like to comment on David’s “style” of stewardship. He saw safety in black and white and did not play favourites. Malefactors were swiftly spoken to, no matter their seniority in the club. In my opinion the only responsible method of oversighting safety. Suffice to say that during David’s tenure no grossly untoward incidents occurred at our club. It did and still has a reputation for safety.

Thank you David for your untiring efforts, your dedication to flying safety and now I hope you enjoy your remaining flying. (He must do. I believe a 500km odd flight was achieved lately?)

Regards

Henry