Sadly, earlier this week South Australian Landsailor Pat Finch passed away.
Pat reached the fine age of 86 years which probably matched the amazing array of unusual and bizarre machines he designed and built over the years. If you have ever bounced on a trampoline as a child you can thank Pat for designing the machine that wove the trampoline mat.
I was fortunate to chat with Pat last week and he was still sharp and thinking about his next idea.
After moving to Perth from his home town of Wiluna, Western Australia Pat was involved in building and flying guiders in the 1950's in Caversham.
In the 1970's Pat again became intrigued with hang gliders and human powered aircraft and entered a succession of birdman rally's. Although he never quite made the distance, the further he flew the harder they made the rules. However Pat's ideas, techniques and assistance helped others to eventually fly the distance.
Pat's landyachts would always have that little different idea to intrique other builders. Here he is with his 1993 efforts for the Pacrim.
A landyacht with a fixed solid wing that steered with all 3 wheels based on the english "crabber" design. It actually worked
This is Pat's entry in the Perth Zoo Bamboo Challenge, also in 1993. "PIGSTY"
Seeing these photos has reminder me that I never once saw Pat in anything except overalls, ever
Pat will be very much missed by all his landsailing friends. Condolences to the family.
Paul
Thanks for posting this Paul.
I never knew the man but he sounds like someone worth knowing, may he ever sail beyond the Clouds.
Ron
Condolences to the family and all concerned....
Pat was an amazing man with a brilliant mind for inventions.....
I'm sorry to hear of Pat's passing, truly a remarkable man.
I was only fourteen years old when I first met Pat and his son Bill, he left a memorable and lasting impression on me with his sheer brilliance and lateral thinking.
I remember Pat showing a home movie of just a few of his many remarkable inventions and being so blown away, if you ever met Pat you know what I mean.
Your right Paul, all the photos I have of Pat and Bill are in their overalls.
Rest in peace Pat
Sad new indeed, my condolences got out to his family and friends.
Rest in Peace Pat.
mmmmmmmmmm didn't know the man but a sad loss,,,,,the world could use more people like him
I'm another who didn't know Mr. Finch, but also wanted to send my best wishes to his family and friends. I have no doubt everyone misses him greatly, including the landsailing community.
