Model aircraft pilots are reaping the benefits and camaraderie of the 'flying men's shed' in the Hastings.
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Port Macquarie Radio Control Model Aircraft Club provides a place to talk for flight enthusiasts, according to president Barry Neems.
"We have about 26 members, aged 14 to 89. They fly foam gliders, balsa planes, electric motor planes, world war two planes, aerobatic planes and there is a huge range of skills in the club," he said.
"We have a huge knowledge base that we share among all our members. When members have problems they can discuss them, get out of the house and enjoy a hobby.
"Often we see the change from grumpy old men and see the difference it makes to them. The camaraderie of being with people with the same interest and love of aircraft, it's an unwritten bond.
"Some of our members also attend competitions around NSW and bring those skills back to the club.
"The most beautiful part is spending lots of time building, learning to build properly and then practicing flight with what you've built."
Mr Neems, 72, said he started working with model aircraft when he was 15 years old.
"I used to be a privately licensed pilot and faced a choice to either get married and have a family or continue flying. Wisely I chose to have a family and flew model planes," he said.
"I've collected about 10 aircraft, which are ready to fly. Some I've built by hand from a plan, but nowadays most planes come in a kit or are even pre-built."
The club has previously been based on Hastings River Drive since the 1970s and later moved to Cassegrain Tea Tree Oil farm at The Hatch in 2006.
Members are now on the hunt for a new landing and takeoff strip.
"We're looking for an open, flat, grassed area with no trees. Ideally 50m by 250m of total flying around," he said.
"We would mow an airstrip in the area and hopefully we can get access to such a site within 50km of the airport.
"We're willing to pay a yearly fee for the use."
Anyone able to help with potential suitable areas can contact Barry at 0416 242 438.
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