Flight Simulator 737 - children's author Dawn Meredith in the cockpit

I had THE MOST FUN the other day - in a flight simulator of a 737. Seriously! It has been designed to emulate an actual plane, in a life sized cockpit, with full control panels and a software program that produces amazing physicality, including 'views' through the cockpit windows of the airport/landscape as you encounter it. I can tell you, the sound of sirens and buzzers add authenticity, especially when a voice insists, "Pull up. Ground approaching!" Sitting on six hydraulics and controlled by a cupboard of CPUs, this machine tosses the occupants around with realism that is truly amazing! FSAP, Flight Simulators Asia Pacific, The company who built this amazing piece of technology (and who supply organisations who train plane and helicopter pilots) are going to make it available to the general public around Christmas time. At $175 a go, with a trained pilot helping you fly, its worth every penny.

cheers, Dawn

Speculative Fiction Writers Festival, Sydney

Had a wonderful time at the festival on Saturday, organised by fantasy writer Kate Forsyth. Pamela Freeman's talk was particularly interesting. Her depth of knowledge and engaging manner were a hit, I think! My panel with three other authors, Paul Garrety, Stuart Daly and Claire Corbett went really well. Lots of laughs and interesting questions. This mad, mad world of spec fic writing isn't for everyone but the community of writers and supporters is brilliant. Jack Heath did a great job chairing the panel. I look forward to the next festival!

 

photo by Leigh Blackmore

cheers, Dawn