Western Australia > Albany and South Coast
Sand Patch
| Type | Coastal Ridge |
| Conditions | SW |
| Height | 150m |
| Rating | PG4 / HG Intermediate |
From Albany drive out around Princess Royal Harbor towards Little Grove and the gap. Turn right at the prison and left up a road signposted to Sandpatch and the wind farm. From the car park take the boardwalk west to the takeoff area in front of Turbine 3. Alternatively there is a gravel road approximately 1.5km before the carpark area on the right that will provide vehicle access to the base of Turbine 3 (first turnoff to the left signposted "Turbine 2 & 3", then continue to the right up the hill.) Take care on this road though, as there's numerous blind corners and it's a favourite spot for hoons. Gates may be closed during turbine works. If this is the case, please don't disregard them, the site can still be accessed via the boardwalk as above.
Landowners
Albany Hang Gliding Club lease the launch from the City of Albany. Camping is not permitted. The site is within the Torndirrup National Park.
Contact/Responsible
Albany Hang Gliding ClubSee also
Description
A huge site, more than 10km of ridge, but mostly without bottom landing as the limestone cliffs run straight into the ocean, have a look at the photo.
Takeoff
Launch is directly over the cliff in front of Turbine 3. The wind compresses quite a bit here, so be ready to kill the wing lest you get plucked and dragged. Shadecloth is provided for paragliders to lay out on and hook in. Hang gliders may find it more practical to set up, hook in and carry their gliders along the track from the rear paddock in front of the turbine.
Landing
Top landings only, effectively no bottom landing options as any beach availabilty is extremely dependent on tides and recent weather. A large area in front of Turbine 3 is kept cleared for landing. Avoid landing on the launch where possible due to space constraints. Try not to go too far back if possible, as the turbine blades are closer than they appear.
Flight
Be aware of changing conditions, you may have to land out along the ridge, only fly here if your top and side landings are good. Can be difficult to get down if the wind picks up. Due to the size and compression flyable conditions here equate to very light winds on the beach. The majority of the site, including the takeoff/landing area, is within the Albany Aerodrome airspace. VHF Airband radio carriage is mandatory. Contact the local Duty Pilot / Safety Officer if you have never flown here before.
Hazards / Comments
Be aware of snakes, they are spotted on launch frequently during summer. Also be aware of tourists on launch. The Bibbulmun Track crosses straight in front of the launch path, and as we all know tourists can be blind when there's a scenic view. Due to the scenic popularity of the site, ensure proper distance is maintained from the general public at all times. This is a very visible site. The local rc glider club is occasionally active too, either at the main lookout or further along the cliff to the NW (near Turbine 11.)
Map information
