General News
13 January, 2026
World championships coup for Mareeba
MODEL aircraft enthusiasts from around the world will converge on Mareeba in August when the town hosts the 10-day long powered glider class World Championships.
Competitors come from most major European nations, China, the USA, Mexico, Japan and many other nations.
The Mareeba-based MASCOT model aircraft group will host the event at their facility on Adil Road which grabbed the attention of a Model Glider Association inspector late last year, according to MASCOT Club president Murray Towne.
“While quite a few of our club’s model aircraft enthusiasts have been flying at various locations over the years, our Adil Road facility has proved second to none,” he said.
“The strip has been laser levelled, and it is supported by a host of other facilities that are way above the standards normally evident in similar clubs, especially in rural areas.
“Towards the end of last year, an Australian FAI F5B Electric Model Glider Association inspector visited our facilities, assessing the high standards of the strips, facilities and applicable area height approval (free fly) zones.
“Subsequently, our club received the event approval at the end of last month, so Mareeba will host the powered glider class World Championships.
“The FAI F5B World Championship for Electric Model Gliders usually attracts competitors, their sponsors, crews and families to a region for some time, so our hosting this marque event offers many opportunities for accommodation, supply of food, tourism opportunities and so on.
“Additionally, the championships will be open to the public to see world class aircraft modelers in action, flying in local conditions at our MASCOT facility just outside Mareeba.
“This really is a major sporting coup for our club, town, shire and region, and we will be seeking partnerships for all manner of essentials,” Mr Towne added.
Model aircraft enthusiasts gather at the Adil Road airstrip every Wednesday and Sunday.
For more information, contact Mr Towne on 0429 878 010.
