No flying becomes low flying

GEORGE NEWS - A group of 91 children who had been looking forward to a flight in an aeroplane were disappointed when the weather on the designated day, Saturday 30 November, did not allow flights to take place.

However, due to last-minute arrangements by the organisers, the kids ended up having a great time, swapping a flight for a "low-flying" trip in a fast car or on a motorbike. The other activities planned for the day went ahead.

This is the ninth year that the Service Clubs of George hosted children from various educational centres in the region at the Flight Training College at George Airport, treating them to a fun day experiencing the aviation industry and learning about flying.

The trips in fast cars such as Porches were sponsored by Landy World owner Craig Anderson and 1st Auto owner Rudolph Koekemoer, while BMW sponsored a motorbike ride.

The boarding tickets couldn't be used that day, but that didn't prevent the kids from having a great time.

The kids also had hairspray, face paint, jumping castles, games, food and entertainment. And though they couldn't take to the air, they could board a small aircraft to see what it's like inside.

On top of that, Father Christmas arrived in a fire engine and handed out special gifts. Jaco Hanekom, chairman of the George Services Club, said the aim of the event is to give back to the community and inspire change in children's lives.

They also had a ride on a bike.

"We motivate them to be better people," he said. "Because of this project we have a kid who is now studying to be a pilot. This kid was motivated by the project six years ago."

The Service Clubs of George include Eden Lions, Holy Cross Leos, George Lions, Garden Route Ladies Circle 20, Moth, Rotary, George Round Table 30 and Die Vryburgers.

The jumping castles provided lots of fun.