The Rand Model Aeronautical Club's annual Scale Fly Day once again proved why RMAC remains one of the cornerstones of radio-controlled aviation in South Africa. Blessed with perfect early summer weather, the event drew model aviation enthusiasts from across Gauteng and beyond, offering a spectacular display of craftsmanship, precision, and flying skill that delighted both participants and spectators.
The Rand Model Aeronautical Club (RMAC) is in all likelihood one of the oldest model aircraft flying clubs in South Africa. Established in the 1930s, the club has a rich and proud history in the development and promotion of radio-controlled flying in the country.
There are quite a few clubs in and around Johannesburg, but in the South, you'll find RMAC, based since the 1970s at the corner of Swartkoppies Road and Klipriver Drive, opposite the Mall of the South.
RMAC is a strong and vibrant club that caters for everyone who has RC flying in their hearts. A SAMAA-affiliated club (South African Model Aircraft Association), RMAC today has over Approximately 120 members and continues to grow the hobby in South Africa through active participation, mentorship, and community engagement.
The club regularly hosts events that cover all aspects of the radio-controlled flying hobby. Its facilities are family-oriented, offering wide open spaces and excellent amenities for members and visitors alike.
All participants at the Scale Fly Day were required to hold at least a Silver Proficiency Grading and be current SAMAA members covered by the association's insurance, a clear commitment to safety and professionalism.
Unlike Saturday the 4th, which was miserable with cold wind and cloudy skies, Sunday the 5th lived up to its name, a brilliant early summer's day. I arrived just after 07:30 and met up with club chairman Ezard Verseput, a fellow EAA Chapter 322 member, who also flies a Sling 4 recreationally. Ezard had brought along several of his superb models to fly on the day.
The biggest scale model event I've ever attended was the world championships held some years ago at AFB Swartkop, where the aircraft on display were truly incredible. If memory serves, the models were judged on how closely they resembled and performed like their full-sized counterparts.
Some of the visiting aircraft at RMAC on Sunday more than met those standards. The large-scale Avro Lancaster was magnificent, and having seen the Canadian Lancaster fly, I could swear this one even sounded a little like its bigger sister! Other World War II legends included a beautifully detailed Republic P-47 Thunderbolt and a scratch-built T-28 Trojan that could easily hold its own on any world stage.
I've always had a soft spot for World War I and II aircraft, and there were quite a few that made me smile. The Nieuport 28 stood out, while the weathered Spitfire had a wonderful, “used but loved” character that made it all the more special.
On the civilian side, there were simply too many impressive models to mention. The paradrop demonstration, now a fixture at RC events, was a particular highlight. The accuracy and precision of the miniature parachutists was nothing short of astonishing.
Many thanks to RMAC for its warm hospitality. It was a wonderful day, thoroughly enjoyed not just by me but by everyone in attendance. Unfortunately, work pressures meant I had to leave around 14:30, no doubt missing a few more memorable flights before the day was done.
Rand Model Aeronautical Club Scale Fly in Part Five
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