In the Air
As always, the 2023 Barossa Airshow brought together a unique and eclectic group of aircraft and pilots from around Australia. Three regular participants were significant drawcards for the 2023 event.
Chris Sperou (OAM), nationally recognised aviation daredevil, and long standing crowd favourite will again entertain with breathtaking antics in his eye catching bi-plane, the Super Stinker.
The South Australian Aerobatic Club is a high performance group that is always practising new and exciting ways to turn themselves and their planes inside out. They will join in to showcase emerging local talent and they have some heart stopping new routines in the pipeline to amaze the crowd on the day.
Planes from Jim Whalley’s collection of historically significant military aircraft will also be on display. This collection, known affectionately as “the Whalley War Birds” includes the CAC Boomerang, an SIAI Marchetti S211, a de Havilland Chipmunk, and a Gazelle helicopter.
Exactly which War Birds will fly at the 2023 Barossa Airshow depends on the conditions on the day. The anticipation and surprise this generates adds an element of excitement to the program.
On the Ground
When it comes to taking a break from the aerial action and having lunch or a snack, visitors will be able to choose from a wide range of delicious food and drinks. There will be something to suit all tastes and budgets, available from various outlets across the grounds.
Visitors will also be able to browse market stalls where they can buy locally made gourmet foods and tasty treats, hand made beauty products, native plants, and hand crafted timber goods.
A regular feature of the event is to host display and information stands from a range of aviation and other community groups. In 2023, these exhibits will include unique aircraft, historic vehicles, gliders, aviation memorabilia and vintage machinery.
Many of these exhibitors will be conducting demonstrations and talks as part of their displays.
An exciting inclusion on the day will be the RFDS flight simulator.