Australian National Site Guide - East Inland
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Victoria - East Inland - 19 sites

Name | Location | Type | Conditions | Rating | Height |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Eagle Rise | Near Beechworth, 210km NE of Melbourne. | Inland ridge | S, SE, SSW | HG only - Intermediate | 1,200'/365m agl, 1,850'/565m asl |
Gundowring (Savhill) | 40km SSE of Albury/Wodonga, in the north end of the Kiewa valley. | Inland ridge | NNW, SSW | PG2 / HG Supervised | 2100' / 640m amsl, 1310' / 400m agl |
Landscape | 70km N of Melbourne. | Inland hill | N to W | PG5 / HG Advanced | 1400'/425m agl, 1804'/550m asl |
Locksley Field | 33km north of Seymour on the Hume highway. | Air field | 540'/165m asl | ||
Manny's | Near Beechworth, 210km NE of Melbourne. | Inland ridge | S-SSW | PG2 / HG Supervised | 496m asl, landing 250m asl |
Mt Broughton (Thistle Hill) | 95km NE of Melbourne. | Inland hills | SW | PG2, HG Intermediate | 2100'/650m asl 1200'/ 360m agl |
Mt Buffalo | Near Bright, 220km NE of Melbourne. | Inland mountain | NE | HG Advanced, Int HG under supervision, PG5 | 4527' / 1380m amsl, 975m / 3200ft agl |
Mt Dandenong | 30km E of Melbourne. | Inland mountain | WNW | Advanced HG only. | 1460'/ 445m agl, 1935' / 590m amsl |
Mt Donna Buang | Near Warburton, 90km NE of Melbourne. | Inland mountain range | Light to moderate S or light N | Advanced HG only | 3100' / 945m agl; 3540' / 1080m asl |
Mt Elliot | Near Corryong, 320km NE of Melbourne. | Inland mountain | N, NE | PG4 / HG Intermediate | 2000' / 600m agl, 2952' / 900m amsl |
Mt Emu | Near Mt Beauty, 230km NE of Melbourne. | Inland Mountain | SW (Emu 2: NW) | PG4 / HG Intermediate | 1360m / 4460' asl, 975m / 3200' agl |
Mt Mittamatite | Near Corryong, 320km NE of Melbourne. | Inland Mountain | E | PG4 / HG Intermediate | 2000' / 610m agl, 2985' / 910m amsl |
Mt Terrible | 115km ENE of Melbourne. | Inland Mountain | NE | PG5 / HG Advanced | 4215' / 1297m asl, 3152 ft / 970m agl |
Murmungee | South of Beechworth, North East Victoria. | Inland ridge | SSW | PG4 / HG Intermediate (but no bottom landing for HG) | 1200'/ 365m agl, 2428' / 740m amsl |
Mystic | Near Bright, 220km NE of Melbourne. | Inland, Ridge, Mountain | N (valley wind) | PG4 / HG Intermediate | 797m / 2614' asl, 477m / 1564' agl |
Tawonga Gap | Near Mt Beauty, 220km NE of Melbourne. | Inland mountain ridge | NE | PG4 / HG Intermediate | 3182' / 970m amsl, 610m / 2000ft agl |
The Paps | Near Mansfield, 120km NE of Melbourne. | Inland hill | Various launches face, N, W, E, SW, S & SE | PG4 / HG Intermediate | 1060' to 1320' (320m to 400m) agl, 700m / 2300' asl (N launch) |
Three Sisters (Flowerdale) | Near Flowerdale, 60km NNE of Melbourne. | Inland hill | Light to moderate N or S | PG2 / HG Supervised (North), PG4 / HG Intermediate (South). | 750' / 230m agl, 1444' / 440m amsl |
Yarragon | Near Leongatha, 120km SE of Melbourne. | Inland Hill | N | PG2 / HG Supervised (PG4 / HG Intermediate?) | 900' / 275m agl, 1378' / 420m amsl |
Eagle Rise
Large inland ridge. Hang gliding only.Takeoff
Landing
The paddock directly in front is sensitive and landing there could result in the site being closed. The original Pines landing paddocks are still to be used. They are to the right of launch (west) across Zig Zag Road, with the dam and windsock. Land parallel to the road but to the west (i.e. to the right) of the dam. Ensure you land there or well away from the immediate bombout options in front and to the immediate east. Observe usual gate etiquette and don't drive into paddock. Drive slowly on dirt road to minimise dust when passing houses. Before going XC, please check the map for allowed and forbidden landing paddocks in the area. Bombout elevation is 800-900'/250-270m asl.Flight
Controlled airspace exists over launch C LL 4500. You must check current Albury VTC or Melbourne VNC for any changes.Map information
Gundowring (Savhill)
The hill is privately owned by Bob Saville, who in 2009 opened it as a free flying site for all. Bob welcomes anyone to fly from the hill as long as the flier is a member of the HGFA, this insures both yourself and him. The hill is not associated with any club therefore no other membership is required. Bob only asks that you follow the normal rules of courtesy as listed below.
This site has huge potential with reliable valley winds and thermals. If you fly the hill let people know by posting on the Victorian forums such as Topica, MHGC and NEVHGC forums.
Any flying or driving on Savhill property is at your own risk.
Takeoff
N-NW launch

Landing

Flight
Cross country, soaring.Hazards/Comments
Strictly no smoking while on the property. Please take all your rubbish home with you. There are no toilets on the hill. Please be discrete. Ideally dig a hole, do the toilet and fill in the hole.
Driving on the property is at your own risk. Be careful if at any time you have to go off the cut track, there are many wombat holes on the property.
While on the property have your radio on CH 31, if Bob is there he will be monitoring that channel. It will also be useful for avoiding other traffic, there are not many passing places on the track. Before making a journey either up or down make a radio call to check if there is any other trafic on the hill.
This is a new track and it will take some time to find out where wash outs / problems etc will occur so please take care and drive responsibly. If you see any problems on the property with the road/cattle/fences etc please email Bob.
All the local land owners are happy for pilots to land on their property. Please show them the greatest respect, be polite and follow the normal country code.
Map information
Landscape
A mountain ridge overlooking Seymour Township with north and west facing, ground ramp launches. Suitable for hang gliders and paragliders.
Takeoff
Landing
North landing: The main North LZ's are, 1. Directly in front of launch across the road, 2. Across the river to the North East of take off. These are a fair glide out so be aware and also familiar with the Bomb-Out option. The Bomb-Out is the sloping paddock to the left (west) of the vineyard at the end of the spine. Set up over the back left hand corner (SW corner) of the vineyard and land between the dam and shoulder. If you think you are going to over shoot, an option would be to turn up the spine and land up hill, possibly light tail wind.West landing: The main West LZ is across the road from the West take-off (on the north side of the road). It is not hard to reach, unless you are low. This is a long flat paddock 'between the river and the road', (across the road to the right of the homestead). This paddock now has groups of saplings (surrounded by circular bared wire fences) planted within it, and may have horses (pony's). Landings are still possible but judgement and correct technique is required. The Bomb-Out (this should only be used for Emergencies) is to the right of the homestead, there is a dam in a gully, set up over it and land across the gully, or on to the uphill slope (be careful as this will be across the slope).
Top landings: Are available behind the tower near the north launch, and in the valley behind the west launch. The following is strictly a guide, pilots must appreciate that turbulence increases expediential as the wind strength increases. 18 knots is said to be the limit. There will be a band of rotor to go through at about 130ft above, this should subside at about 80ft to 70ft, but be careful & ready. From the air you must access the current conditions and choose the sweet spot. If uncertain take the less convenient but conservative (SAFE) option and choose one of the bottom landing areas.
Hazards/Comments
A single wire power line runs from the tower (to the east of the North launch) down the spur and across the river. It has marker balls on it but can still be difficult to see.
If travelling south toward Melbourne, DO NOT infringe on controlled airspace. Controlled airspace is at C LL 8500 over launch and drops to C LL 4500 at Broadford less than 10km south.
Guidelines:
The club recommends that the site is only suitable to "Advanced" rated pilots, or suitably experienced "Intermediate" rated pilots with:
- Suitable Mountain XC experience.
- The judgment & skills to fly appropriately (read safely).
- Supervised (onsite) by an "Advanced" rated pilot with current local experience.
The site has limited (approved) landing zones which may not always have guaranteed glides to. For this reason it is only suitable to mountain XC experienced pilots, that have the judgment & skills to fly appropriately (read safely).
Locksley Field
Locksley Field (YLCS) is located 33km north of Seymour on the Hume highway. Freedom Airsports maintain two dragonfly tugs available for towing endorsed HG pilots on most weekends. Contact Peter Holloway and get put on the notification list.
Aerotow endorsements can be arranged if you need one.
The strip is almost 2km long & 100m wide, ground towing is also sometimes conducted, contact MHGC/FA if you wish to ground tow.
The usual plan of action for each day of operations is for training and aerotow endorsements to occur in the early mornings & late afternoons with general tows from midday(ish) onwards.
Takeoff
Flight
Long distance XC flights, and triangles are often completed. A good road system with many townships in the area , enabling easy pickups for those not able or wishing to return to the field.
The area is mostly flat farmland to the W,N & S with hill country to the E. Locksley is just on the 10NM boundary to Mangalore airfield located to the SSW. At April 2017, class E airspace LL 8500. A VHF radio is preferred, particularly if heading south to Mangalore. VHF is not mandatory if outside vicinity of a registered or certified aerodrome. The airspace is infrequently used by GA aircraft, movements are few, sometimes GA conduct precautionary circuits, most often they are passing overhead to Mangalore. It is worth keeping alert. The tugs will always provide info to the overflying aircraft and radio HG when necessary.
The Melbourne Hang Gliding Club often has fly-ins and club competitions throughout the year here. There are camping, cooking facilities and shower blocks on site, additionally the township of Avenel has pubs and roadhouse eateries. If staying overnight, a small fee is payable to the airfield owner.
Manny's
Large inland ridge.Takeoff
A medium size slot between small trees and shrubs. Easy glide to landable paddocks below.
Access:
4WD to the top or 2WD and a 20 minute walk. 4WD section not suitable for low AWD - Subaru type vehicles. Access track begins 30 meters before where the rail trail crosses Diffy Road. Take the left past the dam and follow the bend around to the right. At the track junction, turn left and follow for 500 meters heading ENE. At the Big tree (marked with Blue dot) the 2WD track ends. (Perfect place to park 2WD vehicles) From here, with 4WD only, follow the track 600 meters SSE up the slope to the track junction at the fence line. Park vehicles under shady pine trees. Step over broken fence and launch 30 meters to the south. N.B. The 'all vehicle' track is marked in Red and the 4WD only track is marked in Purple. The contour drains are rather large and non 4WD vehicles will bottom out on these contour drains.
Landing
Official landing zone is marked with Green box in image (Old 'Pines Launch' landing zone). Blue area also a suitable landing option but Green area preferred. Vehicles can be left at the gate (beside the shed) on the green box landing area. Access to the turnoff for the track marked with red line and dot on same image.Flight
Controlled airspace exists over launch C LL 4500. You must check current Albury VTC or Melbourne VNC for any changes.Hazards/Comments
Be aware that the site is a tree slot therefore it is advisable to not launch in cross wind conditions. Also be aware of strong SW winds that could cause rotor from the bare hills to the SW of Launch. Also, please drive slowly around farm houses in the area, the area can be quite dusty and minimizing speed will minimize dust for the local land owners. Also, please leave all gates as you find them.
Lastly, be aware of Eagle attacks to the right of launch, especially in Spring. The flats out the front often work and if an Eagle is in the vicinity then moving away from the hill may be preferable to eagle strike.
Map information
Mt Broughton (Thistle Hill)
Large grassy hill. A weather station with a summary web page is available. There is no SMS, phone or radio access to this weather station. Another weather station is situated about 3km W of launch. This page shows base height estimate above 600m.
Takeoff
Landing
Paragliders
The PG landing paddock is located directly at the base of the hill. GPS: 55 H 0358715 UTM 5888504. Access to it is off Newell Rd via Switzerland Rd. Follow the laneway from 200m along Newells Rd where it turns right, directly toward the base of the hill. This is an easy glide for PGs providing they head towards the landing paddock once they descend to the tree-line, the best thermals are often found around the landing paddock itself! This site is suitable for novices but they are warned to avoid the strong thermic conditions that occur during the peak of the day in the summer.
There have been herds of nervous steers which get spooked by paragliders and even pilots walking through the paddocks. Land as far away from the cattle as possible, and avoid walking near them.
The farmer, David, is friendly and frequently on site. Vehicles are to be left 200m along Newells Rd where it turns right. during periods of fire danger (most of the summer period) however vehicles can access directly the LZ at other times.
David does not want anyone to land on his property during total fire ban days. This effectively means we cannot fly there on total fire ban days.
Hang gliders
The regular landing paddocks south of the road are available without notice. Another landing paddock north of the road is available provisional to daily permission - check with contacts.
The LZ farmer has requested that he be notified immediately of any issues. The process is to contact either the HG or PG site rep immediately. See below right for contact details. In the past, issues such as spooked cattle breaking through fences, pilots in trees, crop damage, etc have caused concern to the farmer.
Flight
Ridge soarable in a moderate south westerly, thermals can be expected during the warmer months. Flights from here on LeonardoHazards/Comments
Turn around is approximately half an hour by car.
Many single wire (SWER) powerlines are in this area.
Retrieve Note for landing east of launch if you bomb before Molesworth: Switzerland Rd ends at a locked gate about 1.5 km east from Newells Rd. So if you land on the north side of the river, and less than 4 km to the east, walk west, and the retrieve vehicle can continue east along Switzerland Rd to get you, and meet you at the locked gate. But if you are more than 4km east along the ridge, especially further down the east end of the ridge, walk east until you connect with Fullertons Rd, which starts at a farmhouse and heads east, and joins up to the Molesworth-Dropmore Rd. The retrieve vehicle can get there via Highlands Rd, or via Yea and Molesworth.
Mt Buffalo
Mt Buffalo is a large granite mountain. The Gorge ramp launch suitable for hang gliders. Reid's lookout suitable for paragliders.Takeoff
Constructed ramp for hang gliders, sloping rock face for paragliders. Both launches are good, but there is no room for mistakes, they are very sheer.
Ramp safety harness
For organised hang gliding events at the Mt Buffalo ramp, Parks Vic require launch assistants to wear a safety harness. The NE Vic HG Club has provided such a harness. It consists of a certified fall restraint harness and 17m of static fall rope with two carabiners to limit the range of movement of the wire assist person working near the edge in front of hang gliders preparing to launch. The harness will be stored with other competition equipment at the NE Vic Club storeroom at the Mystic landing paddock and may be signed out by any pilot as required by contacting one of the club committee members. If using this harness be sure that the range of travel of the assist person does not allow them over the edge of the cliff and that they keep the rope clear their own feet and of the feet of the pilot when moving away.
Landing
Porepunkah airstrip in the Buckland Valley to the east or anywhere in the valley. Nearest bombout is 'The Burrs', alongside the park entrance directly in front of launch.Before going XC, please check the map for allowed and forbidden landing paddocks in the area.
Flight
You can fly Buffalo in any wind direction as long as it is fairly light.In summer the wind is generally N-NW in the Ovens Valley and there is usually a light wind blowing up the gorge when the sun is out and the wind is light. This makes it 'on' at takeoff on a large percentage of days, but don't be surprised if you find yourself drifting away from the mountain while thermalling, or landing in a SW wind! On strong days the thermals blast through at 18-25knots or more, this indicates lift of 1000+/min and comparable sink. The worst winds are probably South Easterlies which roll around from the right and can produce some radical turbulence out from takeoff.The XC potential is very good. (eg. the 1988 World championships held here). To the north the ridge peters out at Myrtleford, 18kms away. South, the valley disappears after 16 kms into rugged country with no landing areas. West, you could fly over the plateau into the next valley, but it can be difficult to get there. One direction is east, over Bright and the Tawonga Gap and onto Mt Beauty and Mt Bogong, but this requires a lot of height. Other directions include flying straight up the Kiewa Valley towards Albury, or up the valley past Myrtleford and then out into the flatlands towards Benalla.
Hazards/Comments
Minimum pilot rating is advanced for this site, however intermediate rated pilots supervised by an advanced pilot may launch. Action will be initiated against pilots launching illegally.A powerline cuts the corner of the 'Burrs' paddock to power the toll station. If you land anywhere else in the valleys, keep out of tobacco fields and, as always, watch for powerlines, fences, etc. Remember that this is mountain thermal country, and winds are unpredictable in landing areas.
Map information
Mt Dandenong

Takeoff
Landing
Landing paddocks are very limited, and it is critical that you contact the local club for the latest details. It is also necessary to check the potential options prior to flying.The best LZ's are private paddocks owned by the Salvation Army. The Pavitt Lane portion of this is a long skinny strip. The remainder of the area is subdivided into smaller paddocks (by fences). Care and an appropriate landing technique is needed for these areas. (See the picture in "Maps & Site Pictures" for a rough guide but please check these prior to flying.)

Besides the Salvation Army LZ's there are very few other potential landing areas. It is imperative to maintaining this site that you find out which are allowable and inspect them before flying. The main thing to remember on approach is to be very wary of horses in the area and not to spook them. This is an environmentally sensitive area, a lot of trouble and effort has gone into getting the Mountain as a flying site, and so we must be on our best behaviour at all times.

Flight
The site is sufficiently inland to produce good thermals in a variety of conditions from light and variable to moderate wind. In summer it is frequently flyable, however it comes under the influence of the sea breeze. In winter the takeoff is often just above cloud base.It is a convenient site because of its closeness to Melbourne and its turn around time.
Hazards/Comments
Due to this sites closeness to Melbourne's main airport it is critical for pilots NOT to infringe on controlled airspace. Controlled airspace is at C LL 4500 over launch (only approx. 2000' above takeoff) and drops to C LL 3500 in the suburbs out in front of launch. Pilots must carry altimeters and strictly observe these restrictions.
Guidelines
The club recommends that the site is only suitable to "Advanced" rated pilots, or suitably experienced "Intermediate" rated pilots with:
- Suitable Mountain XC experience.
- The judgment & skills to fly appropriately (read safely).
- Supervised (onsite) by an "Advanced" rated pilot with current local experience.
It is mandatory that pilots new to this site contact and fly with a pilot who is experienced in the site before flying it for the first time. (The club recommends Andy Phillips or Adam Stevens.) This site has specific no landing zones so check with one of the club's committee members or a regular local pilot for details.
Other notes
The site has limited (approved) landing zones which may not always have guaranteed glides to. For this reason it is only suitable to mountain XC experienced pilots, that have the judgment & skills to fly appropriately (read safely).
Map information
Mt Donna Buang
Ramp take off through a relatively long and narrow slot in tall trees. Faces south overlooking the Warburton Valley.
Takeoff
Landing
It is of PARAMOUNT IMPORTANCE that you are completely familiar with the properties we are allowed to land in. Failure to do so could place this site in jeopardy as there are properties we have been specifically asked NOT to land in. Please make sure you use the contacts below or make sure you talk to an experienced local pilot for these landing options prior to flying.
The previous LZ has changed ownership and was no longer suitable due to trees growing too tall around the perimeter. The new paddock is on Mc Namaras Rd in Milgrove next to the strawberry farm. There's a combination lock on the gate and a gravel track that takes you to the LZ which is the second last paddock before the Yarra River. It's a 5:1 glide from the launch and it's a big flat paddock with no obstructions. This is the closest decent paddock from launch. The owner of the LZ is ok with landings there as long as pilots contact the site contact Todd Wisewood first. Todd can give you the combination for the lock.
Flight
Ensure the wind is straight up the slot and then with a good launch technique there will be no problems. In thermal conditions or in wind directions other than a southerly it is essential to wait for a lull or a cycle to straighten the wind in the slot. This involves careful observation of the streamers and trees on either side of the slot making sure they are moving equally, otherwise strong rotor can be encountered.This site can be flown in a number of wind directions giving a diverse range of flying conditions. In cooler Southerlies (10-15 mph) expect relatively smooth ridge soaring with occasional light cycles. Warmer days and light Southerlies can see more lively thermals but possibly the best conditions for thermal activity can be found in very light winds (0-5 mph) and light Northerlies (up to 10 mph) with healthy thermals triggering off the lee face. With the Northerlies some turbulence and associated sink has to be expected and unless in a thermal it doesn't pay to stay too close to the ridge but head straight to the logged area directly out front where a thermal can often be found.
Hazards/Comments
Controlled Airspace starts at 7500' asl above launch, with Jumbos flying directly down the range, check current VTC. Flying directly over the back will leave you with approx. 25 km of forest before the first landing.
Guidelines:
The club recommends that the site is only suitable to "Advanced" rated pilots, or suitably experienced "Intermediate" rated pilots with:
- Suitable Mountain XC experience.
- The judgment & skills to fly appropriately (read safely).
- Supervised (onsite) by an "Advanced" rated pilot with current local experience.
Map information
Mt Elliot
Ground ramps through tree slots.Takeoff
Main launch (north-west)
The main north-west takeoff is in front of the tower. A weather station is available, installed and managed by ACTHPA and funded by ACTHPA, NSWHPA and VHPA.North-East
The North-East launch is located 100m on the left before the four-ways at the top when coming up the 4WD front track. The access track is marked with a pink ribbon in a small gum tree on a wider bend in the road. Follow old paths down slope to find the launch approx 50m from the track. It's another early morning start point. Beware of the transmission lines below the launch that come from Khancoban along the Upper Murray Valley Highway.Landing
Bombouts directly in front of launches.Flight
Regularly the location of the Corryong Cup and Victorian open. This mountain flying is the best around, especially in the later season. 9000' agl is not uncommon. The valley system makes the flying spectacular and the retrieves easy and quick.Extensive cross country possibilities are possible to the N, W, and S.
Hazards/Comments
Landings are invariably nil wind or tail. Powerlines are located throughout the valley. Beware the lines alongside the bomb outs. There is a hard to see powerline accross the bowl to the right of launch, so don't enter the bowl unless you know exactly where the wire is.Map information
Mt Emu
Mt Emu is a large mountain ridge overlooking Tawonga in the Kiewa Valley. It is the highest mountain launch in Victoria.Takeoff
The setup area is a clearing used as a helicopter drop area for fire fighting teams. The Emu 1 launch itself is an earth ramp with a tree slot. Ensure the wind is straight before committing to launch. When launching, ensure you have excess air speed to help you counteract any turbulence. A mistake on launch is likely to result in an impromptu tree landing.
Emu 1
(SW)Emu 2
(NW) Emu 2 is approximately 500m further along the track from Emu 1 launch (4WD advised). It is a smaller tree-slot launch. Again, here too ensure the wind is straight and your run is fast.Landing
Landing areas are plentiful in the Kiewa Valley but there are some landowners which don't want us to land on their properties. It is best to check the map and/or speak to the local pilots before flying. It is essential that local landowners are not antagonised.
Currently, the closest two landing paddocks for Mt Emu are Baird's and Granma Roper's - see the map for locations. Baird's is not visible from either launch and can have horses in it. If you must land there, just land away from them. This is the ONLY paddock where it is ok to land near horses. Granma Roper's is a better LZ for HG and is visible from Emu 1 albeit further away than Baird's. Baird's might suit PG's better. There is a power line running north-south along the eastern boundary to Granma Roper's. Ensure you inspect it before landing there and when you do give yourself enough height when arriving to keep clear of it. If landing at Grandma Roper's don't fly low over the triangular paddock immediately east, as there can be horses here. The recommended approach is to keep to the south of the Mountain Creek Rd bend when approaching to land into the north or west avoiding the horse paddock and powerlines as well.
The Mt Beauty airstrip is a good place to land but watch for glider and GA traffic. If arriving high, lose height and land on the west side of the runway only. Gliders will do the same on the east side. Be aware that gliders may be towing into the north using a stationary winch. In that case, stay clear of the airspace immediately above the airstrip until the glider has released and the cable has been wound in.
Flight
Once airborne it is best to stay on the ridges to improve your chances of locating thermals. Since the launch is at the Mt Beauty end of the Kiewa Wall, you can follow the ridge for about 40km to the NNE. This is especially convenient for out and return flights. Flying in the other direction is limited as the valley ends at Mt Beauty after about 5km.
Extensive cross country flights are possible by working up the Kiewa Valley, or by crossing over in the direction of Bright (noting there is a large stretch of trees for several km in this direction and also unlandable paddocks).
Map information
Mt Mittamatite
A large flat rockface.Takeoff
Flight
Good thermals are generated in the valley below and channelled up the valley to the left of takeoff.Hazards/Comments
A proposal has been submitted to PV in March 1999 to rebuild the launch ramp and remodel the set up area.Mt Terrible
Landing
Nearest landing Kevington, 5 km to the ENE.Murmungee
Ground ramp through a tree slot.Takeoff
Landing
All PG landings should be made in the paddock immediately to the west of Buckland Road and north of Lee Morrison Road. Paragliders must land in a small corner of the paddock near Buckland Road and just north of the powerlines. Fly with local pilots if you are not sure. This paddock is slightly undulating. HG plots cannot land at the bottom and must be sure to get away. Do not land in the paddock immediately to the west of Buckland Road and south of Lee Morrison Road. Do not land in the paddocks directly below launch and east of Buckland Road. See map.Flight
Paragliders should not fly up the valley to the left unless you are sure you have enough height to make it to the safety of the landing paddock.Hazards/Comments
It is difficult to judge wind strength and direction on launch because of its sheltered nature. This is especially true in cross winds - be careful.
Beware of the local eagles.
Controlled airspace exists over launch C LL 4500. It is essential that you check the Albury VTC or Melbourne VNC for changes before flying.
Map information
Mystic
Mystic Hill is an excellent site which is often on because it faces the valley wind and cooks up some strong thermals. It is located 2Km south of Bright just off the road to Wandiligong. One of the most popular Victorian Inland Sites which has hosted numerous state, national competitions including a Paragliding World Cup event in 1998. There is a weather station on Mystic Hill.
A Mystic flying pass must be purchased before using this site, and can only be obtained over the NE Vic HG club web site at www.nevhgc.net. A Paypal account or credit card is necessary. Flying Information can be obtained by meeting local pilots at the bomb-out on the Wandiligong road or at the Outdoor Inn camp site.
For accomodation there is a backpackers in town (which also acts as a local flying centre), the Outdoor Inn not far from the landing ground, and numerous other types of accomodation are available. There is also a hospital in Bright (should it be needed!).
Takeoff

Landing
For paragliders and hang gliders (if they can tolerate the relatively short approach), there is a new landing ground on the right hand side of the road on the way to Wandilagong. A car park is situated at the end of the landing ground.
The main bombout for hang gliders is across the Wandiligong rd, east of the smaller paddock. Look for the stile over the fence. The main dangers are the trees (normally) upwind producing turbulence, as the valley breeze blows most of the time from the NW. Expect turbulence on any normal summer's day.
Before going XC, please check the map for allowed and forbidden landing paddocks in the area.
Flight
Ridge soaring, once above the height of the trees behind launch is quite easy (but sometimes bumpy). In order to get to that height, passes across the launch bowl in the best lift are often required. Once below launch height, head towards the landing paddock and you may be lucky and catch a thermal above the spur on the way down. When thermalling there are a number of places to head for. Thermals seem to gather above the spurs to the left and right. In general, the whole hill is a trigger point so be prepared for some monster lift straight away. During summer, the lift is quite strong and rough between 12 and 3:30pm. It is safer and more enjoyable to launch before or after. Many excellent XC flight have been achieved after launching as late as 5:30pm. During other seasons Bright hill can be flown almost anytime.
The site is centred amongst prime alpine flying country, so excellent XC flights are possible. Over the back to Harrietville, right to Tawonga Gap and the Kiewa Valley, or left to Porepunkah Hill, the Ovens Valley, Mt Buffalo, Myrtleford and onwards. On epic days try for Wangaratta or the McDonalds on the Hume Highway SW of Wangaratta.
Waypoints for the Bright area can be found here.
Hazards/Comments
Strong lift in summer during the middle of the day. Power lines along road beside landing ground. Large expanses of 'tiger' country to south, and between Pyramid Hill and the Kiewa valley.Map information
Tawonga Gap
A tree slot launch on a large inland ridge. Located on the western side of the Kiewa Valley.Takeoff
Although close to a main road, launch itself can be difficult to find. Its recommended to take a guide with you. There are 2 lookouts on the Bright Gap Rd. To find launch, locate the higher lookout (it has a viewing ramp sticking out from the ridge and a round shaped parking area). Opposite the lookout, drive up the steep rocky dirt track from the hairpin bend in the main road for about 1km. The first part of the track is very rough and needs care not to ground out your car on the rocks. 4WD is not necessary but a car with adequate ground clearance is advisable. A Subaru Forester or Outback will do it easy. Near the top, there will be a clearing where you can turn the car around. Do this here and drive back downhill 200m or so stopping when you see some steps cut into the embankment on your right. That is the walking track to launch.
Be careful driving in or out of this track. Watch for traffic as the intersection with the main road is a blind corner!
Launch is an earth ramp through a tree slot.
Landing
The Tawonga Gap LZ, Iaria's Paddock, quite often has stock in it and the trees around the southern boundary have gotten quite tall. There is a fence running west to east dividing the paddock in half. It is highly recommend pilots have a good look at it before committing to land there and before travelling up to launch. Hang gliders generally land at the Mt Beauty airstrip instead.
The landing paddock is out of sight when on launch. It is located along the eastern side of the Kiewa Valley Highway travelling into Mt Beauty township approximately 1km from the Bright turnoff.
Before going XC, please check the map for allowed and forbidden landing paddocks in the area.
Flight
This site is often 'on' much earlier than Mt Emu located on the opposite of the Kiewa Valley. Much like Mt Emu, the entire Kiewa Valley and beyond can be explored. Crossings to Bright and Mt Buffalo are possible.Hazards/Comments
The LZ can't be seen from launch. High tension powerlines run along this side of the valley and are visible from launch.Map information
The Paps
Large double hill. Launches are suitable for hang gliders or paragliders. 4WD access only (as at Nov 2013).Takeoff
1. Northerly takeoff, 1130' AGL (above bottom LZ).
2. South & SE takeoff's (170' lower than North), 1320' AGL (above bottom LZ).
3. East (300' lower than North) (130' lower than South), 1190' AGL (above bottom LZ).
4. SW (430' lower than North) (260' lower than South), 1060' AGL (above bottom LZ).
Landing
The surrounding country consists of rolling hills with many trees. Landings can be made anywhere you can find a location large enough, however beware the many trees and powerlines and be aware you may have selected a downslope. Familiarise yourself with the local area before flying.The Northerly launch has a LZ immediately in front of launch. It is recommended that all pilots assess the suitability and landing approach options of this LZ, specifically considering, the slope of the ground, obvious obstacles, and the expected wind direction on landing. Alternate outlanding LZ's may be available but please check with locals and consider the nature of the local terrain. To get to any alternate LZ's you may need to fly across roads, trees and/or power lines.
The South, SE, East, and SW takeoffs use the same bottom LZ (currently the dry lakebed). This LZ cannot be clearly seen from the E and SW takeoff's, so it is IMPORTANT that new pilots are shown these on the drive up the hill, so they have a clear location and visual picture of this prior to launching.
Flight
Flights from this site logged in Leonardo and the Paragliding ForumHazards/Comments
On the eastern face there is a TWO-STRAND POWERLINE running from the top to the bottom of the hill. You should have a clear understanding of the location of this hazard prior to flying.Three Sisters (Flowerdale)
A smooth grassy double sided east / west ridge with both the north and south sides soarable and trees below the south launch. Automatic weather station here.
Takeoff
Landing
North:
The paddock is large but slightly sloped away from the hill and as such your approach should be as low as comfortable into the paddock to give you plenty of room. Be aware of possible turbulence from other hills, especially in NW winds. In very light or nil conditions an uphill landing can be successful. There is a windsock on an orange PVC pole on the ground by the fence. Put it in the footing in the paddock, and the last person to leave can place it back by the fence and put the marker pole back in the hole. Terry (owner of flowerdale) has asked that the wind sock hole be made visible when not in use for safety reasons. The footing for the windsock is at co-ords S 37.29094 E 145.27245. Or, simply start at the green EMP pole located in the PG car parking area by the fence and walk 105m towards the notch in the hills on the horizon to the east.
South:
The landing area is along the Strath Creek Rd in one of the first three paddocks immediately over the creek. Check these paddocks before flying for stock or other obstacles and possible dangers (possible flooding in wet months).