They have been run and won on the weekend of April 25 and 26. The weather was a bit challenging, but much fun was had - and lots learned from Jason Shulman! 

Congratulations to the winners:

• F3A - Jason Shulman
• Expert - James Nugent
• Advanced - Norm Morrish
• Sportsman - Will Crossman

A more complete write-up will come later.  Here are the highlights.

Competitors began turning up in Shepparton from late on the Wednesday, and used the gaps between showers for model trimming and set up.  By Friday night we had a strong turn up and enjoyed a good meal at one of the local pubs.

Saturday started with arrival and model setup from 7am, pilot briefing and all competitors photo at 7:30am, and flying to commence at 8:00.  And it was great to see just on 50 competitors from all over the country (and world) turn up.  Flying didn't last long as F3A models playing hide and seek in a low cloud base isn't fun.  And then it rained!  A couple of hours later the clouds had lifted a little, rain paused, wind arrived (pure blow out cross wind) and flying got underway.  Between showers we managed to fly 2 flights of F3A and Sportsman, and 1 of Advanced and Expert.

Then it was back to the hotels and a quick clean up before dinner, Austtralian Pattern Association AGM, and the annual auction at the Woolshed - our regular venue.  Thuderstorms outside, but a great evening inside had by all.

Sunday morning was a bit clearer but more windy.  Still pure blow out, and a bit on the cold side!  First we tidied up an additional 2 flights for those flying in the Australian team trials, then flew another flight of Expert and Advanced, and then 2 more flights of F3A and Sportsman.  That took it to early afternoon and the cold and wind had got to the enthusiasm - so we declared the competition complete and were treated to Jason giving an excellent exhibition of the F09 schedule before trophies were presented and we prepared for the journey home.

Congratulations to the winners of the Masters, and to Alfred Pye, Bill Bloodworth, Chris Swain and Paul Dart (reserve) for making the team for the World Championships.  And a big thank you to Jason Shulman for making the trip downunder and sharing his experience with us.

Interim Results in pdf format HERE (right click to download and keep)

Photo Gallery

The Masters in pictures: from Friday night at the Goulburn Valley Hotel, through Saturday, the Dinner and APA AGM and on to Sunday and winners!