Finished the Course – What’s Next?
‘A’ Licence
To become a fully qualified skydiver, the aim is to achieve your “A”
licence from the Australian Parachute Federation – this is your true Licence
to Skydive. The privileges you will enjoy include cheaper jump rates, enter
club competitions (fun and serious), jump with other skydivers, visit other
drop zones, hire equipment, pack your own parachute and jump more high performance
equipment.
Then the sky’s the limit!
Hiring Equipment
When you complete the course, jumps from 14,000 feet cost $36 each, plus gear
hire. Gear hire is $44 per jump all-inclusive of harness, container, parachutes,
helmet, altimeter and jumpsuit. Ramblers have a Gear Hire Scheme on offer to
course graduates. The Scheme costs $110 and gives gear hire for only $22 per
jump, valid for one year. Packs will cost you $11 each until you complete the
Packing Course.
Buying Equipment
Altimeter
You are required to purchase your own altimeter as soon as possible after graduating.
Second hand alti’s come by every now and then, otherwise new ones range
from $240 to $340, and come in sorts of shapes and colours. Ramblers offer a
hire/buy service where you are able to lay-by an alti, and use it straight away.
Jumpsuit
You are also advised to buy your own custom-made jumpsuit as soon as possible.
It is of huge benefit to have your own jumpsuit to jump in, that is suitable
to your body shape and weight. It is best to jump with a consistent surface
area each time you skydive. New jumpsuits are available from the Air Suits jumpsuit
factory at the DZ.
Complete Rig
Buying your first set of gear is a very important purchase. You have the option
of buying a second hand set of gear, or ordering a new custom set. In each instance,
it is recommended to make up to 50 jumps on hire equipment before you purchase
a new set of year. By this time you will be knowledgeable enough to know which
equipment is suitable for your size and shape, what size canopy would suit you
best etc. Second hand sets of gear are available at Toogoolawah Drop Zone, prices
range from $2000 up to $4500. Your Instructors and Ramblers on-site equipment
rigger will guide you with fittings and the right choice for you.
If you would like to buy new gear, including custom size and colours, you will
need to order it. A new set of gear can be ordered through the DZ Shop, and
will cost around $7000 depending on the Aussie Dollar.
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