http://www.manilla2007.com/Default.aspx?tabid=117


http://ozreport.com/10.241#6  (Compare below, to what it originally
said)


Behind the scenes Godfrey and the CIVL officials are engaged in, well,
negotiations, about various aspects of the 2007 paragliding worlds. Behind the
scenes here at the home of the 2007 flex wing worlds meet director and CIVL
liaison person, and only coincidentally Oz Report world headquarters, we are
also engaged in a similar (in some cases exactly the same) struggle.


Godfrey writes:

Given that I am in hot debate with FAI about this issue for free flyers, I have
noted the situation in more detail on the website now so that there is no shred
of doubt as to what free flying any visitors can expect.


There is no question that we will not allow free flyers to fly at the same time
on the course line as the Worlds pilots, that is obviously against the rule at
4.5 and compromises the integrity of the event. It will not occur and was never
going to happen under any circumstances.

Godfrey's web site states (slightly edited):

Free Flyers and Flying Holiday Info updated 2nd Dec 2006


You are invited to come to the Manilla 2007 Worlds and FLY !!!!


The Manilla 2007 Worlds event will allow Free Flyers to take to the air at
certain times on task days. A Free Flyers Event Guide will be available online
soon and at headquarters to explain the requirements. Provided that the task
does not come back to Mt Borah you will be able to fly soon after the Comp
pilots have left the area at the Launch Director's discretion of course, and in
accordance with FAI Section 7, para 4.5 rules.


Basically free flyers are not permitted to fly the task line - for safety and
competitive reasons, or approach the goal area while it is in operation - for
safety reasons. It might also be possible pending CIVL consideration to launch up
to a certain time before the competition flying launch window is open but with
strict airspace rules in place.


As the Comp tasks are generally one way to goal, visiting spectator pilots
should be able to launch and follow the competitors for an aerial sideline view
of the event !


Manilla always sends a warm country welcome to all spectators and pilots and is
awaiting your visit.


Why not make the Paragliding World Championships a good reason to visit
Australia for a flying holiday in Feb/March 2007. Come to Manilla for a few
days, a week or even the whole two weeks, have a great flying time, party and
support your National Team.


The Opening Ceremony (Sat 24th Feb 2007) will feature an Air Show, Pilot Town
Parade, Opening Ceremony and free entertainment with all the stars of the
Paragliding scene present.


This time of year is not peak season for tourism, the airfares and accommodation
are cheaper than in mid summer, and the weather is great for flying at all major
sites around Australia and of course its a great time to see all the other
attractions Down Under !

We won't be having free flyers at Big Spring, but there are other issues which
we are dueling with the great guys (and Heather) at the CIVL Bureau about. All
very gentlemanly and in good spirit (so far). We all want to support hang
gliding and hang gliding competition world wide.