Page 18 - Demo

17This new asset will not only be of benefit to recreational NSMAC Club members, but also to pilots visiting our premises from around the country, participating in competition events.The installation of the new circle was not without challenges. As the NSMAC operates within a working farm, there are conditions on the use of the land. One of these includes a restriction that the soil remains undisturbed. This essentially meant that traditional excavation to install the concrete flush with the existing ground level wasn't possible.After much discussion, a creative solution was developed and put before Council for their consideration. Our proposal was to construct the new circle above the existing ground level, \polythene. This necessitated the addition of significant quantities of new topsoil placed around the perimeter, to allow seamless access.We had to wait for some weeks, with baited breath, while Council went through and reviewed our application. And then after much anxiety, and nail biting, the good news! We were given the final OK in late Autumn of this year. Then, it was all go to complete the installation before the wet winter weather set in.Aspecial thank you must go to the Committee members of the NSMAC who made this happen. Robert Berger expertly managed the relationship with Auckland Council. His attention to detail and negotiation skills smoothed the path, and strongly influenced the outcome. Rob was also was instrumental in securing the funding to allow this to go ahead. Again, thanks so much, Rob. Dave Wilkins provided expert advice, tools and equipment, and led the concrete work from start to finish. This included accurately laser-surveying the levels, the installation of the boxing, managing the pouring of the concrete itself, and keeping us all safe on the job. Dave's pride in his work is clearly visible in the immaculately finished product.A mini working-bee was held at the field to help pour the concrete. The Atlas truck turned up 15 minutes early, and after 20 or 30 minutes or so of frantic wheel-barrowing, shovelling and screeding, it was all done and dusted. Many thanks to all the willing volunteers from NSMACand other clubs who rolled up their sleeves, and also to those who provided refreshments. We were very fortunate to have an extended period of calm, dry weather leading up to the concrete pour and soil spreading. Luckily, we just got everything in place, a few days before the expected Autumn rains arrived in early May . Over the past few months, the newly-laid grass has been slowly but steadily taking root. With the days now starting Base Course sand in placePolythene downThe big day All hands on deck for the concrete pour. Otto, Gerald and Max Wimmer with boots and barrows at the readyThe big day. All hands on deck for the concrete pourto become longer, and the air warmer, we are expecting the grass growth to accelerate. In a year or so we expect the new soil profile to have blended in seamlessly with the surrounding terrain.