Need information on Newcastle, NSW, Australia

[ianyapxw 0]

Hey guys

Anyone has info on jumping near Newcastle? I need a DZ and/or friends.

If you're from the area, just say hi!

[tsbrookes 0]

Your options are:

Skydive Maitland which is at the Maitland airport in Rutherford. This is where I jump. There are a core group of 20-30 people who are great and look after each other. I am just off of student status and have never jumped elsewhere. Fun jumpers slot in with the tandems and there are fun loads when there are no tandems.
It is run by Jay and Mel who are both really friendly and willing to help.

The other option is the Newcastle Sports Parachuting Club which is out at Elderslie. This is about 20 min or so from Maitland and I think is further from Newcastle than Skydive Maitland. I think Elderslie is focused more on fun jumping but I have never been there.

Both have good websites so check them out.
Good Luck.

[ianyapxw 0]

Thanks a lot mate!

I see this is your first post in a while, so I really really appreciate the help
What are the transport options available (I don't drive).

Anyway hope to see you in a month's time!

[Trev_S 0]

Two thumbs up for Elderslie from me. I'm new there but the DZ is great and the people are awesome :)

[tsbrookes 0]

I'm not sure about the transport options. Your best bet is probably a taxi from the nearest train station. I don't know too much about the public transport system as I drive and don't live in the Newcastle area.

[ianyapxw 0]

(: Haha problem is that it's kinda far and unless there's public transport it's not possible.

:(

[NPower 0]

I'm also relatively new to Elderslie; only been there a handful of times. But I liked it and the people there so much that it will be my preferred DZ going forward.

[ianyapxw 0]

:(

sure then, will do a more detailed search when I'm not on mobile.

[Trev_S 0]

ianyapxw

(: Haha problem is that it's kinda far and unless there's public transport it's not possible.

:(

Just post on skysurfer or the elderslie facebook page when you're wanting to head up. I'm sure you can get a lift with someone.

NPower heads up fairly frequently from Syd. However he does follow "The unwritten book of the road"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXz-HCcDUHY

[ianyapxw 0]

Sure, thanks for the advice!

I considered hitching myself too, but was unsure about safety.

[hcsvader 1]

Elderslie is an awesome club dz. Get onto their Facebook page and IM sure you'll have no trouble finding a lift.

http://www.skydivenewcastle.com/

Have you seen my pants?
it"s a rough life, Livin' the dream
>:)

[ianyapxw 0]

(:

Roughly how many regulars can you expect to see in a weekend?

Also, Elderslie uses a Cessna 182 right?

[hcsvader 1]

https://www.facebook.com/SkydiveElderslie?fref=ts

They run a caravan. check out the facebook page.

go check out both DZs. they are both good.

I think maitland runs a fletcher.

Have you seen my pants?
it"s a rough life, Livin' the dream
>:)

[ianyapxw 0]

Thanks (:

I have to admit, it's quite a close one for me to choose. I think at the end it'll depend on whichever is cheaper and whichever is more convenient.

Do you know if they have any upfront 'A' license course? I messaged them on FB but still haven't got a reply. They don't seem to have an email too...

[hcsvader 1]

I'm sure they have a phone.
I'm sorry but I can't hold your hand and walk you to the dz.
You'll be fine. Your a big kid now :)

Have you seen my pants?
it"s a rough life, Livin' the dream
>:)

[ianyapxw 0]

Haha I'm only asking cause I'm out of the country. I'm just wondering if anyone knows anything in the meantime!

[drop-bear 0]

Another option that may work without wheels is Sydney Skydivers down at Picton. Haven't been there in a few years, but they used to run a free shuttle bus from Central. Give them a call and see if they still have that. With an express from Newcastle, that could work out well.

[ianyapxw 0]

Thanks for the heads-up! I'll look into that too.