ADAM Wright charted the sun and clouds to time his traditional Anzac morning fly-over for the Boort commemoration service.
It’s a tradition he has continued for more than a decade, describing the flight his contribution to the community and the memory of the Anzacs.
“Before Anzac Day, I also inspected the area to make sure there were no new towers or anything ahead of the flight that is made within aviation regulations,” he said.
“I plan my approaches, check the sun and the clouds and work out the run in ... the most critical part of the flight is timing to coincide with the service.”
Adam said his Anzac flyover continued a tradition started several decades ago.
“There were links between members of the RSL and the now-defunct flying club,” he said. “My involvement just evolved naturally.”
This year Adam made two flights - the usual trip over Boort and a second over Mysia three hours earlier where the first-ever Dawn Service was held.
Adam worked as a commercial pilot in the region around Coober Pedy mustering stock and running scenic flights for tourists before coming south to live in Boort and farm at Borung.
“If I’m not in the workshop or on the farm, I’ll be flying somewhere,” Adam said.
He owned six planes, including the CH6 Nanchang used for the Anzac Day fly-overs. “I usually try to head up flying two or three times a month,” he said.
“The biggest adventure I’ve ever had? Flying a Tiger Moth back from Perth a few years ago. The trip took five days and is one that stays in the memory.”