Australia’s most enduring outback air safari, the Outback Air Race (OAR), is set to take off for the 9th time on 23 August.
The OAR is a time trial, allowing competitors in any type of aircraft to compete on a fair basis with all other entrants, and be judged on navigational and time keeping accuracy.
Over $1.5 million has been raised for the Royal Flying Doctor Service since the even was first held in 1996.
This year, the race will take participants on a tour over 11 days starting from Esperance in WA and finishing on Hamilton Island on 4 September. the route will be via Forrest, Yulara, Alice Springs, Birdsville, Winton, Karumba and Cooktown.
Already 25 aircraft have signed up for the challenge, including a home-built RV and an Eclipse business jet. All types of aircraft are welcome to enter, and those that do find much more than just a time trial.
"Participants can expect to make some wonderful friends who share a common interest and enthusiasm for adventure and the outback, giving back to the community, and a love of flying," says Race Registrar Stuart Payne.
"Most evenings there are events for all the competitors and often local dignitaries or interested community members. It is the perfect opportunity to get to know fellow participants, and the community, and learn of their amazing lives and experiences."
Entrants need have only a PPL, and don't need to have a instrument rating. Each team will be expected to raise at least $2000 for the RFDS to start the race.
To get more information and register your team, go to the OAR website.