Overseas Pilots

Visa

You will need a visa to travel in Australia, and should arrange for it when you buy your ticket. Citizens of many countries can apply online for a three-month "Electronic Travel Authority" from www.eta.immi.gov.au. It costs AUD$20. For longer stays, and for citizens of other countries, check the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website www.immi.gov.au.

HGFA

In order to fly legally in Australia you must become a member of the Hang Gliding Federation of Australia. You can apply for a Visiting Pilot Membership (two, four or six months) online at www.hgfa.asn.au - click the "Overseas Pilots" link at the top of the page. Check out the Competition Calendar and the Site Guide while you are there.

You can now apply for a Visiting Pilot membership - VPM by email directly to the Hang Gliding Federation of Australia - HGFA.

• HGFA VPM application form (pdf)
• HGFA Waiver Form (pdf)

Just email trene@hgfa.asn.au your completed application with start date + waiver + a copy of your current licence.

Pricing as follows:
2 months Visiting Pilots membership A$49
4 months Visiting Pilots membership A$69
6 months Visiting Pilots membership A$89

Australia recognizes and uses the FAI International Pilot Proficiency Identification (IPPI) system. You are encouraged to obtain both an IPPI Card and a Sporting License before coming to Australia

The rules related to flying in Australia include the Civil Aviation Orders and Civil Aviation Regulations, specifically CAO 95.8 for Hang Gliders and Paragliders. You can find details at www.casa.gov.au.

Retrieval

You will be responsible for arranging your own transportation and retrieval. Check the online pilot registration list  and contact other pilots who are also looking to form a team. Although it is sometimes possible to form or join a team during registration, this is best done in advance.

The Organizers will maintain a list of people who can be hired for drivers; this information will be available on line. It will be each team's responsibility to make arrangements with their driver. The usual drivers fee is AUD$100 per day. Shared among a team of three or four pilots, this works out to be approximately $25-$33 per day. The driver's fee does not include the use of the driver's car, fuel, ice, etc. He or she will expect to retrieve you in your team car.