Cobar Aero Club officially became operational again after a meeting last Wednesday at the RSL Club to elect an executive committee with trainee commercial pilot Neil Halliger taking on the role of president.

The Aero Club has a long history of operation in Cobar but ceased functioning several years ago.

Last Wednesday’s meeting was attended by an enthusiastic group of aviators representing a diverse range of aviation pursuits including general aviation, ultralight, paraglider pilots and a large group of skydivers.

Cobar Aero Club has been re-formed under the guidance of Eric Hayden from Narromine who has more than 25 years’ experience flying a range of aircraft. He has also been responsible for organising a number of air shows and has built a Wright Flyer replica that was on display at the recent Narromine Fly-In.

Sue Loughran of the Cobar RSL met Eric at the Narromine Fly-In and between them they hatched the idea of holding a similar event here in Cobar.

Sue has also offered to provide managerial support for the Aero Club and has made the RSL club facilities available to the club.

The aim of the new Aero Club is to promote aviation in Cobar and provide a forum for pilots.

One of the key points to come out of the meeting was a decision to begin preparing to hold a fly-in at Cobar airport around the weekend of July 19 this year.

At least 100 planes of all types including a World War II restored Mustang are expected to attend the fly-in if the appropriate authorisation and insurance is obtained.

Membership of the Aero Club costs $20 and is open to all people who have an interest in aviation.

The club will be having an informal meet and greet barbecue on Sunday April 6 - 5pm at the RSL all welcome (cost $10).

The next meeting of the Cobar Aero Club will be held on Wednesday April 26 at the RSL Club at 7pm.