TEMPE AIRSHOW SPONSORED BY HERHOLDT GROUP

Over the weekend of 19 to 21 May, Christine and I drove to Bloemfontein to attend the final day of the Sports Aerobatics (SAC) Nationals Competition as well as to attend the Bloemfontein, Tempe airshow on the Saturday. I was impressed by the well organised airfield, especially with the Skydive Adventures, Bloemfontein Parachute Club's new restaurant and refreshment facilities that has plenty of space for the children to play as well as a great outdoor entertainment facility. Although it was very cold as the sun set on Friday, the skies were clear and the hospitality was awesome.

- ATHOL FRANZ

Arriving at the airfield on Saturday morning at around 08h00 was effortless since we had already registered as media and best of all we were welcomed by the gate controllers. The extensive airfield had been well planned with vendors positioned on the gentle slope overlooking the runway, whilst the crowd line had been well demarcated with speed fencing. A large scaffolding structure accommodated the air traffic controllers Benji Phukubje from Lanseria and Phemelo Kgoale from Kimberley at the top level, whilst the airshow boss, Rikus Erasmus and Louise Hofmeyr as well as airshow safety officer Cliff Lotter and airshow organiser Conrad Botha were stationed on the second level. Brian Emmenis and his Capital Sounds team were on form as they were positioned at show centre right alongside the scaffolding tower. At precisely 09h00 the pilot's briefing was held in a large marquee that also doubled as the pilot's and various officials refreshment area. I was impressed by the level of hospitality shown to all the officials and media persons within this area that was well-stocked with food as well as hot and cold beverages.