Sharing a love of flying with people of all ages is the focus of the Benalla-based Gliding Club of Victoria (GCV), particularly ahead of a national competition to be held in early 2026.
Based at the historic Benalla Airfield, the not-for-profit, volunteer-run club is dedicated to making the dream of flight accessible, particularly for young people, women and girls.
"In a time when so much of aviation has been commercialised, we're proud to remain a community-driven club focused on passion, not profit," club president Andy Davison said.
"Our mission is simple: to share a love of flying and create a welcoming hub for all."
Open to all ages and backgrounds, GCV offers a unique entry point into the world of aviation through inclusive memberships, youth-focused programs, and volunteer-powered instruction.
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"Whether you're 15 or 65, there's a place for you on the airfield," Andy said.
The club has 140 flying members, including locals and those who live in Melbourne and travel to fly in Benalla.
GCV is intensifying its efforts to engage with aspiring pilots from regional areas as well as young people, who are commonly underrepresented in modern aviation.
Through hands-on gliding experiences and mentorship from experienced volunteers, members are discovering more than a hobby; they're finding career inspiration.
"We want to show young people that this isn't just a weekend activity, it can be the beginning of something much bigger," instructor Matt Woodhouse said.
"Many of our former juniors have gone on to become airline pilots, air traffic controllers, or aeronautical engineers."
Club member Jeremy Skuse said for young people interested in aviation, gliding was a "gateway".
To support this pathway, the club is building partnerships with local schools and STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) programs to connect curiosity with career development.
From January 18 to 25, the club will also host JoeyGlide, the Australian Junior National Gliding Championships and coaching program.
This premier event will showcase the country's most talented junior glider pilots, aged under 25.
"This is a great opportunity for young people and the community to experience the excitement of competition gliding," Andy said.
"Come meet the pilots, explore the aircraft, and witness the thrill of silent flight."
GCV boasts a dedicated volunteer base, with members serving as instructors, launch crew, engineers and administrators - not for pay, but for the love of flight and community.
"There's something deeply rewarding about paying it forward - helping others learn to fly, literally and figuratively," longtime volunteer Craig Blunt said.
"That sense of connection is what keeps us coming back, year after year."
The club's youngest member is aged 14, while some members began flying in their teens and remain involved into their 70s and 80s, highlighting the lifelong joy and friendships the club fosters.
GCV offers air experience flights - a chance to soar silently on natural updrafts, with no engine, just the wind and the wings - and these flights often serve as the first step into a lifelong passion for aviation.
One young student described the experience after her first flight as being "freedom in its purest form".
The Gliding Club of Victoria, affectionately known by locals as the Benalla Gliding Club, encourages the public to experience the thrill and serenity of gliding firsthand.
"No matter your background, gender, or level of experience, we welcome you," Andy said.
"All you need is a sense of wonder and a willingness to learn."
In a world where flight can seem out of reach, GCV is ensuring the dream of aviation remains alive, accessible, and inspiring.
