As the De Beers mining group is constructing a new diamond mine called “Voorspoed” 30km north of Kroonstad, the group presented a “diamond rush” as one of the side shows of the event. All ticket proceeds went to the local Rotary chapter and each ticket holder were presented with a “claim” in a designated area within a demarcated area. AgriTrans sponsored the aircraft which took the skydivers to height for the parachute jump. Once they landed in the demarcated area they remained stationary as the spot indicated a winner of one of the prizes. It is expected the new mine will be operational during 2008.

Parachutest marks spot of diamond rush winner

Brandon Emmenis broadcasting from a Cessna 210

Another Emmenis voice was heard at the air show in the form of Brandon Emmenis. Brandon with his instructor Daan Neethling from Bevrick Air School based in Welkom and Kimberley addressed the crowds from a Cessna 210, on aspects of obtaining a PPL. Though out the day one could enjoy either a flip in a helicopter or fixed wing aircraft to experience aviation for real.

Members of the Kroonstad Medical Rescue Services with Aerocare based in Bloemfontein demonstrated a typical flight for life. Bloemfontein is one of South Africa’s medical centres with advanced medical care facilities.  As Kroonstad is located on the N1 highway the Medical Rescue Services are kept very busy throughout the year. It so happened that the services of Aerocare would be required later in the afternoon after a serious motor car accident outside Kroonstad.

The Snakes MicroLight aerobatic team under the leadership of Jay Hyde also attended. A new routine for the air show circuit is the demonstration of game capture with the aid of a helicopter. The helicopter pilot has to position the helicopter close to the animal for the veterinary surgeon to fire the tranquilising dart to enable the animal to be captured. Andre Coetzee piloted a Bell 206 from Henley Air that chased the fibre glass Rhino mounted on quad bike chassis. It took three darts for the rhino to grind to a halt – Who said air shows are boring?

Rhino game capture display