RESIDENTS' eyes turned to the sky last week when 16 vintage aeroplanes paid an extended visit to town.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Red Radials Air Brigade was in town from Wednesday to Friday before flying to Temora for the Warbirds Downunder fly-in that was held across the weekend.
Planes seen buzzing overhead were Russian Yak 52s and Chinese Nanchangs, with members of the Red Radials using their time in Leeton to practice their stunts and tricks.
Leeton Aero Club president Bob Rankin organised the visit over a period of eight months after a member paid a visit to the Brobenah Aerodrome and discussed the idea.
"They were very keen to come here before heading to Temora, so that's how it all happened," he said.
"Over the last four or five years the aerodrome has been getting a real name for itself all across the country. Pilots want to come here and we're extremely happy to have them."This group are all Qantas pilots and ex-air force, so they are very experienced and know their stuff. "They couldn't have said nicer things about Leeton and about the airfield.
"They love the uninterrupted airspace and the great weather."
Mr Rankin said the group was already planning its next visit.
"They really rate Leeton ... some of them are talking about coming back with their families and exploring the town even more," he said.
"It's a great thing for the town and it's only going to keep growing.
"This group were a really interesting bunch ... they got in a lot of practice, but they seemed to enjoy the Leeton hospitality as well."