Exploring the skies of Merimbula

There are lots of passionate aviators in Scouts. From adult volunteers at the Air Activity Centre, to Venturer Scouts getting hands on at AirVenture flying camps, and regional Groups enjoying a visit from the Scouts aircraft at a Regional Activity Day, there is plenty on offer for people with an interest in flying.

While the Scouts aircraft are a little out of reach for the members of the newly reformed 1st Merimbula Scout Group, it has not stopped them from exploring their interest in aviation. Last month, the Group held a District aviation camp at the Frogs Hollow Airstrip.

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Leader Arian "Flounder" Manca said Frogs Hollow was a community-owned airstrip on a 324ha farming property, which 18 aircraft call home.

"Several of the Frogs Hollow Flyers volunteered their time to show the youth their craft, which included both high and low wing planes, a gyrocopter and a powered parachute," she said.

"Joey Scouts, Cub Scouts and Scouts from 1st Merimbula, 1st Cobargo, and 1st Batemans Bay Scout Groups learnt how planes fly, parts of a plane, preflight checks, and got to sit in cockpits. The demonstrations of planes taking off and landing on the airstrip were a big highlight.

"Other activities included making and flying planes, making and flying kites, and setting a flight plan using an 'old-school street directory'. Our older youth also learnt how to work out airspeed and fuel consumption."

Arian said the unique location of Frogs Hollow Airstrip also meant the Groups could camp for the night. The members enjoyed a showing of Disney's Planes: Fire and Rescue under the stars. The following day, the Bega District Model Club came and showed off some model planes, including a replica Dusty Crophopper from the movie.