2007 NZAC National Championships - Colin Greatrex, Mike Slack, Grant Benns, Brad Marsh

Colin Greatrex

It is with great sadness we report the passing of Colin Greatrex on Sunday 15th November, 2009. Most of you will have known Colin as a stalwart member of the New Zealand Aerobatic Club over many years. Colin was an enthusiastic competitor winning the Intermediate title in 2007 before progressing to fly Advanced in 2008. He was also an active volunteer at all NZAC events; most competitors will remember Colin ensuring that they were “ready to fly” as he performed his duties as Starter.

Many of you will also know Colin’s wife, Joan. Also a pilot, Joan is regularly found on the competition judging line scribing for our judges. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Joan and the family.

Colin’s last weekend was spent following his passion for aerobatics as a participant in the RNZAF-hosted Display and Aerobatic Training camp at Ohakea. It was on his way home from Ohakea to Ardmore in Pitts Special ZK-MAD that Colin tragically lost his life. The aircraft was also damaged beyond repair.

Vale - Colin

The Great Stunt Company was formed in 1990 to purchase, operate, and maintain in a fully serviceable flying condition a Pitts Special S2B aircraft (and any other aircraft the partnership might acquire). TGSC also provides type ratings to all partners in the S2B and any other partnership aircraft. From time to time the partnership also carry out other activities (such as flying displays, joyrides, sponsorship and promotional activities, etc.).

ZK-MAD in the flare at NZAR Ardmore Airport Dec 2004. (Photo courtesy Flying Kiwi)

ZK-MAD in original colours at NZHN Hamilton Airport in 1995. (Photo © Phil Treweek)

Shortly after its formation The Great Stunt Company purchased a 1985 Pitts S2B registered ZK-MAD. A 2-seat version of the most successful aerobatic aircraft to date - Curtis Pitts' "Pitts Special" - a direct descendant of the "Lil' Stinker" that flew back in 1944 (with only 90hp, ZK-MAD has in excess of 260hp!).

Since 1990 ZK-MAD has been a regular perfomer on the airshow circuit, initially in the hands of Richard Hood (2004 New Zealand Unlimited Aerobatics Champion) but more recently Rob Silich has taken over the display duties since RH sold his share to purchase and display his Pitts Special S1 ZK-EES. Richard is still a valued resource for syndicate members wanting to hone their advanced aerobatic skills.

ZK-MAD at Matamata 1998 in new livery with Minolta sponsorship (Photo © Phil Treweek)

The Pitts Special S2B ZK-MAD is based at Ardmore (NZAR) in Auckland, New Zealand and is regularly seen aerobating locally. ZK-MAD and its owners attend the Aerobatic Nationals in Waipukarau (NZYP) and the Brian Langley Competitions at North Shore (NZNE), and is a regular visitor to the Waikato too!