Kilcunda

Kilcunda's 'Graveyard' is a Victorian coastal dune site on the stretch between Kilcunda town and Cape Patterson — suitable for student-rated pilots and up. It can be soared, and offers a workable glide for learners when the tide is out. In lighter winds, hang gliders prefer the Graveyard dune takeoff on the west side of the beach path. Since June 2009, launching from the disused railway embankment within the coastal reserve near town has been temporarily prohibited by Parks Victoria and the VHPA.

Launch & conditions

Graveyard launch on the west side of the path to the beach — preferred by HGs in lighter winds. Limited takeoff run and now very overgrown; watch for undergrowth snagging the HG control bar. PG students and novices should consider walking east along the beach ~150 m and launching from lower but less overgrown dunes. Launching from the disused railway embankment in the coastal reserve near town is TEMPORARILY PROHIBITED (Parks Victoria / VHPA, June 2009 onwards).

Getting there & local rules

Coastal Victoria between Kilcunda and Cape Patterson. Landing: the Graveyard takeoff is directly above a popular surf-fishing spot — watch for people and fishing gear on landing. Very little beach at low tide.

Local rules & hazards

Launching from the disused railway embankment near town is TEMPORARILY PROHIBITED (Parks Victoria / VHPA, June 2009). Very little beach at low tide — plan accordingly. Take care not to catch a wing on the water. Suitable for student-rated pilots and up.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Kilcunda, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Kilcunda with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.