When the time for you does come for you to hang it up, just know that you will be missed. I have watched you throughout my entire hobby, so THANK YOU for all you have done for the RC hobby community! Salute to you Sir!
I own a beef farm in NZ and over the last 7/8 years I have spent 20 to 30 minutes flying my FPV drone up to 4 km distance from my house over my farm, 4 to 5 times a week to check on my stock. It saves me two to four hours a day, (and petrol) by not having to drive round the paddocks to physically check on them. Once the drone has been launched, I DO NOT HAVE LINE OF SIGHT of it and I do not have an Observer. Yes, that means I am in breach of NZ CAA regulations. But nobody has been harmed, no property has been damaged, no paint has been scratched, and no animals have been harmed, although a bull head bunted my drone a while back (the drone, an Avata, recovered from the encounter and was not damaged). The Avata is a great drone. CAA needs to bring their regulations into the modern world. Keep up your Vids Bruce, I enjoy watching them.
Stop using dji, or anything RTF. Build or buy your own platform. I design and build my own units. My DIY 250MM size flies for 20 - 30m and you can do crop mapping if you wanted to. I also have 600mm hex design with greater flight time. Anyone could work with me or others, but nobody really cares. RC has become a grift. So sad to see. But I hope I am mistaken. Every day there is a new video of some fool pretending that he/she can be #1 in flying. Rubbish! But nobody really cares. Change my mind...
Same as the UK... FPV here needs a "spotter" - seems pointless, as every flight should be handled with care and attention BEFORE even taking off. I would like to bet my licensed ass is safer than half the 'under 250g' drone users.
Yeah, in Australia 🇦🇺 this generation banned ballroom dancing 💃 🕺 They're sick in the head. They upped the price of insurance and used authority to hand out fines. Those few who were organising all decided to leave. They did the same thing with busking on the city streets. Now, years later it's migrants who are doing all the busking and they're playing louder than the regulations permit but nobody's enforcing the regulations. They destroyed throwing streamers. They killed off confetti 🎊 They ended throwing rice. They stopped the china plates 🍽 being smashed. They destroyed whole suburbs and every business in those suburbs. They destroyed their own cheap food supply as well. It's everyone for themselves and they DID destroy lots of things.
Bruce, I've been a subscriber for at least 17 years. By complete coincidence, I've met your daughter at a friends BBQ near Wellington. It was fun talking to her about all the epic stuff you've done over the years. You're very loved! People like you is what makes NZ fantastic. And great people is the main reason why I moved here a long time ago. On a side note, I've contributed code to some open OSDs back in the 2010s. I've seen the same OSDs being used to bomb people in the Ukraine war, 14 years later. All built out of parts sourced in the internet. So far, I had no calls from the government. If bureaucrats weren't so fucking scared to learn something instead of driving a desk, they wouldn't be after people that are trying to make society better. People like you. Don't quit UA-cam :) The amount of knowledge and wisdom you've shared will be here for generations! I just turned 40 mate, I'm definitely joining your other channel :)
I had no idea Ron was a full-scale pilot. I am pleased as punch that you're not throwing in the towel. Times are rough in multiple ways but we can always look back to better days. Speaking of looking back, "vintage" video has become a genre of sorts here on the UA-cam so perhaps there is room to use the old footage to good effect. Remember that UA-cam began operations in 2005, so you were here uploading content practically from the inception. Arguably the world has been in a tailspin for decades, perhaps since the '60s. I don't expect "the kids" to agree but I fully support their right to be wrong. Everyone, including me, starts out believing they were born in the best time and that things will only improve. It's only much later we realize the situation is deteriorating, and begin looking to the past for comfort. That old footage you're sitting on is a gold mine!
Thanks for the very kind contribution. Yes, I guess there'd be some mileage in cobbling older footage together so if it ever becomes impossible to fly again I may well do that.
Sir Bruce (yes, you should be Knighted for all that you've contributed), the decision of 'if and when' is totally your call. When you do leave, there will be many that will be heartbroken by that loss. I look forward to your videos and your universally relevant perspectives. Bless you and your commonsense approach.
Interesting, I never knew Ron was a full scale pilot. That was a nice one wheel pass! The weather looks to be the same as here. Windy rainy 8-10 ish degrees. 40 mm of rain over new years eve. And here it's winter. (Yesterday and today, frost and clear blue skies 😊). Excellent compilation!
Hi Bruce, Yeah, the good old days are gone. After 55 years, things have changed a lot, even in California. I first started watching your channel in 2013 and have been a supporter for the past 5 years. Unfortunately, I can't say anything about when you stop. All I can say is that you're be missed. Just like the gang from the field. Thanks for the years of videos and showing people how much fun it is flying model planes.
Mate, you've been fighting the good fight since long before your first upload to UA-cam! I hope you have an awesome 2025, doing whatever you want, and relentlessly dragging the authorities into reality as you always have.
you sir are a gem in this community, to think you would quit wasn't even a thought! i have watched this struggle you endure for all our sakes and while i do miss the airport vids and the guys you sir would be even a greater loss to us all..... so as they say in your neck of the woods "carry on sir carry on !"
I've been watching your channel since I got back into the hobby in 2016. You have provided a valuable service to the hobby: great information along with fun times. Sorry for all your troubles. Your spirited support for model aviation is an inspiration. Keep up the good fight!
All I can say is .. what a breath of fresh air. So nice to see a Kiwi with the old kiwi attitude. Once upon a time, the car industry was the same. Unfortunately, I don't think there is any way back to the 2000s for car enthusiasts. I hope you make some ground with the hobbit regs. I have just subscribed to your channel so always remember that a petition with your subscription numbers would be pretty powerful. I look forward to future videos and it looks like I'm going to have a few hundred hrs of past footage to watch. Cheers
I've watched you since I was in high school and I am 33 now. I just came to check to see how things were going since it's been a few years since I've been recommended a video and I am glad to see you're still at it. Your videos got me into mini quads years and years ago and just recently I finally jumped all in into fixed wing and RC cars. Life was super crazy for me early on so I never got the chance. Free men just fly. Also I actually ended up working at a part 145 doing overhauls and repairs for a few years and enjoyed every minute of it. We had a Carbon Cub at the shop and I've seen that thing doing crazier shit at the airstrip. Appreciate all the fun and help throughout the years.
The good old day indeed. It's a shame there isn't any footage from Centennial Park in Taupo, where as a 15yr old spectator in 1977 I watched you with the all mighty Ugly Stick doing touch and goes from the top of the soccer posts on the field. Talk about reactions! And the flying wing you made with the two channel Futaba? A.M radio with a third channel spliced in to the TX. So glad I'm still in the hobby here in Hokitika, where the farmers field we fly from is only governed by common sense. Sadly lacking these days but proven by the ZERO incidents/accidents to date. Cheers Pete' 👍
Wow, now *THAT* is going back a bit! Those were happy days also and times when there were absolutely ZERO rules -- yet we managed just fine, flying within 4Km of the lake (officially an airfield) and right beside the gliding club (another airfield). Fantastic times, great people and it seemed like endless fun.
I really love going back and watching the older video's, such good days and its just such a comfort to watch the older videos full of joy. Cheers for all the content over the years Bruce, truly.
Yeah, nostalgia is great. I really wish more folk had rallied to the call when I asked for some help convincing our council that they were being unreasonable -- but it is what it is and this is the result :-(
@xjet yeah it's very unfortunate, I tried to do what I could, my dream was to come over there with my kids and fly at the airfield... At least you never wasted any time while you had the access and freedom mate. Thanks again Bruce, I hope you have been feeling alright day to day, thanks for continuing to put out content regardless.
Happy new year from Canada Bruce happy you’re continuing i have always enjoyed your videos, down to earth sharing our concerns about the over regulation of the RC aviation as of late, its all about money Thanks again, take it easy and enjoy life ❤
I really miss the flying at the field vids with all the banter with your mates...... its a shame thats no longer.... I wonder what the next 10yrs has in store for the hobby... I personally dont think it will die out but it will go more underground as I dont think the regulators will ease up.... thats the main reason I dont post many flying vids on my YTch... all the best for 25, stay safe and keep the blue side up.
Yeah, the hobby won't die, it will simply adapt. Already we're seeing a significant shift towards smaller craft. At one time I would have said _"no regulator would be stupid enough to make rules for a paper airplane"_ but sadly, CAA New Zealand has proved me wrong. I'm more hoping that it'll be a bit like skateboarding which was villified for years after kids started using malls and parks -- then, eventually it was embraced and now there are skateparks all over the place.
I've learnt a lot from your videos over the years. One in particular was how the coanda effect limited the speed of the hiller flying platform, it was a question I couldn't find the answer to for a long time. Ps I've seen a few comments of yours on a channel called Barum engines, I live just a couple miles from that business, very entertaining channel, always something going wrong.
Brilliant video Bruce, yes going back when we flew without all those laws 'ie don't drink batty acid' in car instructions, when we were 175 members now 45, 3 proper model shops in our 35.000 population town now all gone, keep those videos coming, and yes do I miss your airfield reports and of course the 'Tower', a happy new year to you and your followers.
^PLEASE dont quit, watching you for soooo many years now, love it. Always brings a smile to my face. So definetely time to say THANK YOU for your work.
I remember all those years ago, you introduced me to the Spoktra boys! You included them in a video, and I realised they were only just down the road from me, so messaged Mark and started flying with them. All from the other side of the planet. Your content has always had value, and you are an ambassador for 'sense' in a world of ever increasing nonsense! Please keep going mate!
Thanks mate, much appreciated. Yes, those were great days with the Spoktra50 crowd -- another group of really fun people who flew in a way that could never be tolerated by "the powers that be" today.
That was an awesome retrospective look from your UA-cam career. Keep on keeping on Bruce with your future endeavors while also being nostalgic. Maybe one day CAA will realize that once the hobby’s nearly dead when NZ can’t find pilots or anyone interested in aviation. They’ll be kicking themselves in the backside when they come across your videos making them think that you’re not the crazy one who decided to poke the bear. So keep poking the bear’s.
I heard about you from my dad reading a story in the paper about a guy making a cruise missile in his garage 25 years ago, I'm from the usa, found you again after I got into multirotors like 6 years ago
Happy New Year to you Bruce and thanks for a great retrospective. How refreshing and carefree everything was back at that time, look at the smiles and look at how much fun everyone's having. bureaucracy has a lot to answer for, the fun police is a very apt name in this case :/ Was great to see and hear some of those faces and names we haven't seen for a long time, hope everyone is doing well. Thanks for igniting the passion for the hobby although I will admit it's been a while since I've had a controller in my hands. Best wishes from across the ditch 🍻
In NE Ohio Lee Field (2D1) Sites immediately next to an RC field. There's less than 600' of space between the RC and full scale runways. YET! They safely fly together every weekend.
Happy New Year Bruce! Thank you for fighting for the rights of the people in the hobby and of course making us smile at the same time with your unique wit and wisdom.
ron only got fined because some nasty karen snitched on him, i worked several yrs for a experimental composit aircraft company based at a small comunity airport, high speed passes buzzing the site was common, nobody got in trouble,
Your videos were part of the motivation that got me properly into FPV back in 2011 precisely because it looked like so much fun and the wonder of getting a camera into the air and flying a little plane using goggles was AMAZING back then. I went out flying daily, sometimes multiple times a day. I wish I could get my enthusiasm back, it was a fantastic time. Ironically though I suspect I might still be doing it if I wasn't so hyper-aware of the rules because of all of the UA-cam videos I've watched.
We have a sailing UA-cam sailing channel that is quite popular, the thing is we don't edit nothing and everything is filmed on our Android phones that are 5 years old. We just do it for fun and if we put a smile on someone's face and make them feel better after watching the video, we succeeded......
Happy new malarkey Bruce! I've watched your videos on and off since I started, so you do whatever you need and want to do mate, and only some of us will give a shti! 😁
It will be a different UA-cam without you! Got to say you're the only Kiwi content creator I know of, so when I think of Kiwis you're the face I see! I remember subscribing for the jet engine content ages ago (I am an engine enthusiast, not so much into aviation) and watching your vids since occasionally.
Hello Bruce. I just saw the video listed, and the title compelled me to, before I even watch the video, let you know that I hope that you decide to continue producing and publishing videos. I find your level of knowledge and wisdom, combined with your honest nature, and integrity, to be a very unique and appreciated source of information and even entertainment at times. I noticed that the title is phrased as a question, and I hope this and other comments inform you as to how much that we hope that you do not quite making videos. I plan to watch the video a bit later, and I will most likely add another comment after I watched the entire video. Thanks again, for all that you have done to date. _John_ ___(-,-)___ EDIT: I forgot to mention that you give us older folks a lot of inspiration to stay with the hobby as well...
Ridiculous regulations, back in the day (before quads) you would go to the airfield, fly your plane (you made / assembled or repaired), have your liability insurance and membership up to date, hang your frequency on the board and have a great day with mentors and co pilots of RC, tricking , treating and unfortunately crashing. No one (generally) went home without a great day. Older age and memories are a joy compared to modern times in a over regulated society.
You're such an inspiration. Articulate, informative and creative. I have never to this day ever stopped thinking about your cruise project that got me pondering something for personal amusement. Being autistic and having certain interests, it was a great mind project and highly amusing, inspired by your good self. Thank you for your contribution to the world. I wish I could have the pleasure and opportunity to learn personally from your experience and knowledge.
Right behind you Bruce. I too am frustrated that I cant just go and fly my DJI mini 4 Pro in the local park or around my neighbourhood with all these stupid rules. I just did a Video on Christmas day over the Christchurch Sports Stadium which was technically "Illegal" as i didnt ask permission from the CCC cos i knew they would say no. Love your videos and keep up the great work.
2 of your subscribers is me, lol.. ScooterPie from 2012 and PropsOff from 2019. I'm a fan Bruce. I hope the best for ya. May 2025 be the best ever❗ Enjoy the Breeze...👍🏻🍻👊🏻
I sort of have quit YT. They manipulated things to where I was not earning anything anymore, so no monetary incentive. I've switched to just making videos when I want to. Anywho it was you who made FPV accessible. Your videos explaining how it all worked are what sparked me to give it a try. I now have a wall full of FPV drones. So thank you for that, I have always appreciated what you put out. Whether you continue or not, you have my eternal gratitude. Keep flying! - evol.
Regulations killed my fpv hobby many years ago. Now, my racing drones are displayed on the shelf like relics from the past. However, after all these years, I'm still subscribed to your channel. Thanks Bruce, this video brought back a lot of good memories.
I know it's beyond your control, but I miss the old flying videos. It was the cure for the winter time blues here in the states. I love your witty, sarcastic personality! Please dont ever change! Come visit the good old USA! Ive heard that you can fly anything anywhere in New Jersey these days without consequence...
I love you work I just found your channel I’m from Wellington! I’m 2 years into building fpv drones. I love it however I feel like I have to watch my back every time I take off I hope they sort the rules out! And keep up your fantastic work 😊
Cool throwback video! I havent been subbed that long (maybe a few years now) but have enjoyed watching your content. Dont comment all the time, but i do watch some.
👍👍 Bruce!! What a vivid contrast of today's totally unwarranted fear-driven overregulation vs carefree safe fun model flying before rabid rampant paranoia took over the braindead overseers of model flying years ago. I've been subscribed to this channel for so long I can't even remember when I happened upon it, but so glad I did. You and your lighthearted approach to your buddies enjoying flying at Tokoroa used to be so entertaining. It's no wonder that your popular videos spread around the world like wildfire. You sir, are a passionate very good hearted guy. We all appreciate not only what you continue doing for the hobby, but for your intelligence, sense of humor ...and... calling a spade an effing spade. Stay well and keep 'em coming brother! 😁
Bruce, my oldest video is from 12 years ago... Because before then I was focused more in writing... Long story. But it was another ch, I didn't want to mix things. You know? I didn't put any new videos there either... Now I want to get back at it. My PC stopped working just before the pandemonium and the prices got crazy high... Either way, I think I'm going to be able to get a new one this year. Before July, I hope, but by then I'm definitely going to be able to. About regulations and bureaucrats, they think we don't think, let's put this way. It's not a new phenomenon either, but it's really getting worse! Well... I hope it changes in the near future... But I wouldn't hold my breath. Anyway, happy new year! Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊
Hi there Bruce all the best for the new year. Unfortunately it's hard to risinde a rule because if someone does what was prohibited and there is an insedent then the organisation may be deemed responsible because they removed a rool
HAPPY NEW Y YEAR Bruce !! THANK YOU for all these years of entertainment ❤️ 💕. OH Those were the Day's ! There has been wonderful success reversing Parkinson s with a Keto diet, preferably Carnivore diet. The resurch shows that plants and sugar have such an inflammatory effect that the body fights it , but in an inappropriate way. Parkinson ,MS ,altzimers , Diabetes, Cancers. All of which show very quick recovery when your diet is changed. We must have animal fats and proteins to feed our brains. And red meat has the 3 Most Essential minerals and vitamins that which by the way you cannot get ANYWHERE ELSE . No plants or vegs, fruits have these in a form our body can use.
Yes, key things for me have been diet and exercise. The videos will continue -- just a shame that the local council has effectively made it impossible for me to continue filming people having fun with RC models at the local airfield.
I don't think they'd let me through immigration. Last time I was in the USA (to act as a technical consultant on the Junkyard Megawars TV series back in the very early 2000s) I had to "sneak" into the country. If I ever get my book published, all will be revealed then.
When the time for you does come for you to hang it up, just know that you will be missed. I have watched you throughout my entire hobby, so THANK YOU for all you have done for the RC hobby community! Salute to you Sir!
Yep Bruce is One of a Kind A good Bugger
Definitely second that. Years and years of honest humour and important hobby information.
Priceless footage
I own a beef farm in NZ and over the last 7/8 years I have spent 20 to 30 minutes flying my FPV drone up to 4 km distance from my house over my farm, 4 to 5 times a week to check on my stock. It saves me two to four hours a day, (and petrol) by not having to drive round the paddocks to physically check on them. Once the drone has been launched, I DO NOT HAVE LINE OF SIGHT of it and I do not have an Observer. Yes, that means I am in breach of NZ CAA regulations. But nobody has been harmed, no property has been damaged, no paint has been scratched, and no animals have been harmed, although a bull head bunted my drone a while back (the drone, an Avata, recovered from the encounter and was not damaged). The Avata is a great drone. CAA needs to bring their regulations into the modern world.
Keep up your Vids Bruce, I enjoy watching them.
Stop using dji, or anything RTF. Build or buy your own platform. I design and build my own units. My DIY 250MM size flies for 20 - 30m and you can do crop mapping if you wanted to. I also have 600mm hex design with greater flight time. Anyone could work with me or others, but nobody really cares. RC has become a grift. So sad to see. But I hope I am mistaken. Every day there is a new video of some fool pretending that he/she can be #1 in flying. Rubbish! But nobody really cares. Change my mind...
They will make an example of you now.
CAA will put more regulations so the only way for you to check your animals is by buying drones from companies that sponsored the CAA.
Flying with UFOs.
These things know no laws and the government says: "They are just harmless drones."
Same as the UK... FPV here needs a "spotter" - seems pointless, as every flight should be handled with care and attention BEFORE even taking off. I would like to bet my licensed ass is safer than half the 'under 250g' drone users.
Man I miss the old xjet shenanigans at Tokaroah
You're not the only one. Such a shame that "fun" (as we knew it) has increasingly become *_"not allowed"_*
Yeah, in Australia 🇦🇺 this generation banned ballroom dancing 💃 🕺
They're sick in the head.
They upped the price of insurance and used authority to hand out fines.
Those few who were organising all decided to leave.
They did the same thing with busking on the city streets.
Now, years later it's migrants who are doing all the busking and they're playing louder than the regulations permit but nobody's enforcing the regulations.
They destroyed throwing streamers.
They killed off confetti 🎊
They ended throwing rice.
They stopped the china plates 🍽 being smashed.
They destroyed whole suburbs and every business in those suburbs.
They destroyed their own cheap food supply as well.
It's everyone for themselves and they DID destroy lots of things.
@@xjet #metoo. Maybe we should all get very offended. Apparently that is how you can things done nowadays.
Bruce, I've been a subscriber for at least 17 years. By complete coincidence, I've met your daughter at a friends BBQ near Wellington. It was fun talking to her about all the epic stuff you've done over the years. You're very loved!
People like you is what makes NZ fantastic. And great people is the main reason why I moved here a long time ago.
On a side note, I've contributed code to some open OSDs back in the 2010s. I've seen the same OSDs being used to bomb people in the Ukraine war, 14 years later. All built out of parts sourced in the internet. So far, I had no calls from the government. If bureaucrats weren't so fucking scared to learn something instead of driving a desk, they wouldn't be after people that are trying to make society better. People like you.
Don't quit UA-cam :) The amount of knowledge and wisdom you've shared will be here for generations!
I just turned 40 mate, I'm definitely joining your other channel :)
Fantastic! Wow, it's a very small world.
I had no idea Ron was a full-scale pilot. I am pleased as punch that you're not throwing in the towel. Times are rough in multiple ways but we can always look back to better days.
Speaking of looking back, "vintage" video has become a genre of sorts here on the UA-cam so perhaps there is room to use the old footage to good effect. Remember that UA-cam began operations in 2005, so you were here uploading content practically from the inception.
Arguably the world has been in a tailspin for decades, perhaps since the '60s. I don't expect "the kids" to agree but I fully support their right to be wrong. Everyone, including me, starts out believing they were born in the best time and that things will only improve. It's only much later we realize the situation is deteriorating, and begin looking to the past for comfort. That old footage you're sitting on is a gold mine!
Thanks for the very kind contribution. Yes, I guess there'd be some mileage in cobbling older footage together so if it ever becomes impossible to fly again I may well do that.
When the Tower fell, I noticed a change of heart, that kinda broke mine.
Your info and perspective is invaluable for this community. .
Sir Bruce we need your logical perspective on our mad world stay strong.
Sir Bruce (yes, you should be Knighted for all that you've contributed), the decision of 'if and when' is totally your call. When you do leave, there will be many that will be heartbroken by that loss. I look forward to your videos and your universally relevant perspectives. Bless you and your commonsense approach.
Interesting, I never knew Ron was a full scale pilot. That was a nice one wheel pass!
The weather looks to be the same as here. Windy rainy 8-10 ish degrees. 40 mm of rain over new years eve. And here it's winter. (Yesterday and today, frost and clear blue skies 😊).
Excellent compilation!
Glad you received the weather I sent you. It's all good here now we sent it on to you. Sent with love from Tasmania.
Hi Bruce, Yeah, the good old days are gone. After 55 years, things have changed a lot, even in California. I first started watching your channel in 2013 and have been a supporter for the past 5 years. Unfortunately, I can't say anything about when you stop. All I can say is that you're be missed. Just like the gang from the field. Thanks for the years of videos and showing people how much fun it is flying model planes.
"Even in California" 😂😂😂 ESPECIALLY in California
Mate, you've been fighting the good fight since long before your first upload to UA-cam! I hope you have an awesome 2025, doing whatever you want, and relentlessly dragging the authorities into reality as you always have.
you sir are a gem in this community, to think you would quit wasn't even a thought! i have watched this struggle you endure for all our sakes and while i do miss the airport vids and the guys you sir would be even a greater loss to us all..... so as they say in your neck of the woods "carry on sir carry on !"
I've been watching your channel since I got back into the hobby in 2016. You have provided a valuable service to the hobby: great information along with fun times. Sorry for all your troubles. Your spirited support for model aviation is an inspiration. Keep up the good fight!
Be a sad day when we don't see you anymore 😢
Thank you for all your time and videos 👏👏👏
Don't worry, I plan to live forever or die trying.
All I can say is .. what a breath of fresh air. So nice to see a Kiwi with the old kiwi attitude. Once upon a time, the car industry was the same. Unfortunately, I don't think there is any way back to the 2000s for car enthusiasts. I hope you make some ground with the hobbit regs. I have just subscribed to your channel so always remember that a petition with your subscription numbers would be pretty powerful. I look forward to future videos and it looks like I'm going to have a few hundred hrs of past footage to watch. Cheers
Cars kill 1.3 million people every year globally. I'm not saying the enthusiasts are the blame.
Enjoy watching you and your friends fly, one of the better things to watch
I've watched you since I was in high school and I am 33 now. I just came to check to see how things were going since it's been a few years since I've been recommended a video and I am glad to see you're still at it. Your videos got me into mini quads years and years ago and just recently I finally jumped all in into fixed wing and RC cars. Life was super crazy for me early on so I never got the chance. Free men just fly. Also I actually ended up working at a part 145 doing overhauls and repairs for a few years and enjoyed every minute of it. We had a Carbon Cub at the shop and I've seen that thing doing crazier shit at the airstrip.
Appreciate all the fun and help throughout the years.
Happy New Year Bruce , my very best to you!
Happy New Year Bruce best wishes to you and your family 👍👍👍👍👍
Bruce been with ya a long time going back to the forum days! I hope you stay around in some form 'cause you're pretty awesome!
@ it’s amazing and sad what’s happened to the hobby. Governments ruined it as soon as a corporation figured out they could make a dollar
The good old day indeed. It's a shame there isn't any footage from Centennial Park in Taupo, where as a 15yr old spectator in 1977 I watched you with the all mighty Ugly Stick doing touch and goes from the top of the soccer posts on the field. Talk about reactions! And the flying wing you made with the two channel Futaba? A.M radio with a third channel spliced in to the TX. So glad I'm still in the hobby here in Hokitika, where the farmers field we fly from is only governed by common sense. Sadly lacking these days but proven by the ZERO incidents/accidents to date.
Cheers
Pete' 👍
Wow, now *THAT* is going back a bit! Those were happy days also and times when there were absolutely ZERO rules -- yet we managed just fine, flying within 4Km of the lake (officially an airfield) and right beside the gliding club (another airfield). Fantastic times, great people and it seemed like endless fun.
Bruce, I wish you a Happy and Prosperous New Year, from Texas, USA. Been a subscriber for about 9 or 10 years. Love your videos 🙂
Thanks, my old mate, I was there from the start with you, look after yourself and great adventures are yet to come mate Bruce. Regards, Geoff
I was ready for a New Year. It was really worn out. I just hope no one tries to recycle it. You’re doing great Bruce. 👍👍👍
You are the reason I got in the hobby , Like literally had no clue how anything worked , thank you for the work you've done for this community 🎉
I really love going back and watching the older video's, such good days and its just such a comfort to watch the older videos full of joy.
Cheers for all the content over the years Bruce, truly.
Yeah, nostalgia is great. I really wish more folk had rallied to the call when I asked for some help convincing our council that they were being unreasonable -- but it is what it is and this is the result :-(
@xjet yeah it's very unfortunate, I tried to do what I could, my dream was to come over there with my kids and fly at the airfield... At least you never wasted any time while you had the access and freedom mate.
Thanks again Bruce, I hope you have been feeling alright day to day, thanks for continuing to put out content regardless.
You have done so well Bruce, I was there from the start of your Journey Mate
Thanks for all you have done. Exemplary work. Hope to see more 😊
Almost 20 years ago I was looking for a video on four stroke engine service.
Thanks so much.
Happy new year from Canada Bruce happy you’re continuing i have always enjoyed your videos, down to earth sharing our concerns about the over regulation of the RC aviation as of late, its all about money
Thanks again, take it easy and enjoy life ❤
Very glad to see you looking so healthy. Where should we send the cakes with files in?
@ 21:00 - you were looking GREAT at the beginning of this video, Bruce! Keep at it!
I really miss the flying at the field vids with all the banter with your mates...... its a shame thats no longer.... I wonder what the next 10yrs has in store for the hobby... I personally dont think it will die out but it will go more underground as I dont think the regulators will ease up.... thats the main reason I dont post many flying vids on my YTch... all the best for 25, stay safe and keep the blue side up.
Yeah, the hobby won't die, it will simply adapt. Already we're seeing a significant shift towards smaller craft. At one time I would have said _"no regulator would be stupid enough to make rules for a paper airplane"_ but sadly, CAA New Zealand has proved me wrong. I'm more hoping that it'll be a bit like skateboarding which was villified for years after kids started using malls and parks -- then, eventually it was embraced and now there are skateparks all over the place.
I've learnt a lot from your videos over the years. One in particular was how the coanda effect limited the speed of the hiller flying platform, it was a question I couldn't find the answer to for a long time. Ps I've seen a few comments of yours on a channel called Barum engines, I live just a couple miles from that business, very entertaining channel, always something going wrong.
wahoo! happy new year
looking forward to XJET vs THE REGULATOR ( just a friendly couple of rounds :D
Thanks Bruce. i hope the weather gets nice down there for you kiwi's
what a intro, happy new year everyone,
💪Thanks!
Bruce, best to you in the New Year!
gud on ya mate. 6 years on im still flying my FPV and DJI drones it will never die on me, its my hobby.
Brilliant video Bruce, yes going back when we flew without all those laws 'ie don't drink batty acid' in car instructions, when we were 175 members now 45, 3 proper model shops in our 35.000 population town now all gone, keep those videos coming, and yes do I miss your airfield reports and of course the 'Tower', a happy new year to you and your followers.
Incredible.. thank you Bruce. Looking forward to this year‘s content
^PLEASE dont quit, watching you for soooo many years now, love it. Always brings a smile to my face. So definetely time to say THANK YOU for your work.
happy new year Bruce
Happy New Year Bruce. Looking forward to a great year of content.
I remember all those years ago, you introduced me to the Spoktra boys! You included them in a video, and I realised they were only just down the road from me, so messaged Mark and started flying with them. All from the other side of the planet. Your content has always had value, and you are an ambassador for 'sense' in a world of ever increasing nonsense! Please keep going mate!
Thanks mate, much appreciated. Yes, those were great days with the Spoktra50 crowd -- another group of really fun people who flew in a way that could never be tolerated by "the powers that be" today.
That was an awesome retrospective look from your UA-cam career. Keep on keeping on Bruce with your future endeavors while also being nostalgic. Maybe one day CAA will realize that once the hobby’s nearly dead when NZ can’t find pilots or anyone interested in aviation. They’ll be kicking themselves in the backside when they come across your videos making them think that you’re not the crazy one who decided to poke the bear. So keep poking the bear’s.
Nice to look back at the good old days Bruce!
I heard about you from my dad reading a story in the paper about a guy making a cruise missile in his garage 25 years ago, I'm from the usa, found you again after I got into multirotors like 6 years ago
It's a couple of aliexpress purchases away with the same capability. But still need to source the bang else where.
Happy New Year to you Bruce and thanks for a great retrospective. How refreshing and carefree everything was back at that time, look at the smiles and look at how much fun everyone's having. bureaucracy has a lot to answer for, the fun police is a very apt name in this case :/
Was great to see and hear some of those faces and names we haven't seen for a long time, hope everyone is doing well. Thanks for igniting the passion for the hobby although I will admit it's been a while since I've had a controller in my hands. Best wishes from across the ditch 🍻
In NE Ohio Lee Field (2D1) Sites immediately next to an RC field. There's less than 600' of space between the RC and full scale runways. YET! They safely fly together every weekend.
Great video Bruce, shame we have lost common sense in the Hobby. Glad you are making future videos.
Thank you for being you Bruce. I am still sad we didnt get to cross path's when I was in NZ.
Maybe next time!
Good times mate love you xjet thank you for keeping it real all these years. Here's to many more!
Soldier on Bruce. Do what ya gotta do
Your fine sarcastic comments were the best part of that flying field videos. That was real fun.
Greetings from Slovenia.
Happy New Year Bruce! Thank you for fighting for the rights of the people in the hobby and of course making us smile at the same time with your unique wit and wisdom.
Thanks!
Your generosity is appreciated sir! Thank YOU!
its a tiny bit of gratitude considering, carry on bruse never give in
ron only got fined because some nasty karen snitched on him, i worked several yrs for a experimental composit aircraft company based at a small comunity airport, high speed passes buzzing the site was common, nobody got in trouble,
Your videos were part of the motivation that got me properly into FPV back in 2011 precisely because it looked like so much fun and the wonder of getting a camera into the air and flying a little plane using goggles was AMAZING back then. I went out flying daily, sometimes multiple times a day. I wish I could get my enthusiasm back, it was a fantastic time. Ironically though I suspect I might still be doing it if I wasn't so hyper-aware of the rules because of all of the UA-cam videos I've watched.
I’ve enjoyed the channel and your antics for many years as I’ve progressed in my own flying, thanks a lot Bruce
We have a sailing UA-cam sailing channel that is quite popular, the thing is we don't edit nothing and everything is filmed on our Android phones that are 5 years old. We just do it for fun and if we put a smile on someone's face and make them feel better after watching the video, we succeeded......
I lost all my clips due to a misstake. But have started to transfer them on Ssd these days. Great video Bruce.
Happy New year.
"Precipitously" (2:03) - Thanks xjet! I've got a new word of the day! 😆😆
I used to love your videos from the field :) Cheers.
Me too... sadly, too many politicians and bureaucrats can't stand watching people have good, harmless fun. Such things must be stopped at all costs.
Happy new malarkey Bruce! I've watched your videos on and off since I started, so you do whatever you need and want to do mate, and only some of us will give a shti! 😁
It will be a different UA-cam without you! Got to say you're the only Kiwi content creator I know of, so when I think of Kiwis you're the face I see! I remember subscribing for the jet engine content ages ago (I am an engine enthusiast, not so much into aviation) and watching your vids since occasionally.
Hello Bruce. I just saw the video listed, and the title compelled me to, before I even watch the video, let you know that I hope that you decide to continue producing and publishing videos. I find your level of knowledge and wisdom, combined with your honest nature, and integrity, to be a very unique and appreciated source of information and even entertainment at times.
I noticed that the title is phrased as a question, and I hope this and other comments inform you as to how much that we hope that you do not quite making videos. I plan to watch the video a bit later, and I will most likely add another comment after I watched the entire video.
Thanks again, for all that you have done to date. _John_ ___(-,-)___
EDIT: I forgot to mention that you give us older folks a lot of inspiration to stay with the hobby as well...
You are doing great a nice positive attitude I wish you all the best from the UK 🇬🇧
Ridiculous regulations, back in the day (before quads) you would go to the airfield, fly your plane (you made / assembled or repaired), have your liability insurance and membership up to date, hang your frequency on the board and have a great day with mentors and co pilots of RC, tricking , treating and unfortunately crashing. No one (generally) went home without a great day. Older age and memories are a joy compared to modern times in a over regulated society.
Your awesome Bruce! Thanks from the many for what you do matey 👍
You're such an inspiration. Articulate, informative and creative. I have never to this day ever stopped thinking about your cruise project that got me pondering something for personal amusement.
Being autistic and having certain interests, it was a great mind project and highly amusing, inspired by your good self.
Thank you for your contribution to the world.
I wish I could have the pleasure and opportunity to learn personally from your experience and knowledge.
Thank you for your very kind words.
Great to meet another youtuber in NZ! Wow 2500 videos, I'm on 270
as always SPOT ON Bruce !
Right behind you Bruce. I too am frustrated that I cant just go and fly my DJI mini 4 Pro in the local park or around my neighbourhood with all these stupid rules. I just did a Video on Christmas day over the Christchurch Sports Stadium which was technically "Illegal" as i didnt ask permission from the CCC cos i knew they would say no. Love your videos and keep up the great work.
Dear Sir Bruce...Never Stop, doing what YOU want, we do appreciate it!!!
2 of your subscribers is me, lol.. ScooterPie from 2012 and PropsOff from 2019. I'm a fan Bruce. I hope the best for ya. May 2025 be the best ever❗
Enjoy the Breeze...👍🏻🍻👊🏻
Cheers
LEGEND!
I sort of have quit YT. They manipulated things to where I was not earning anything anymore, so no monetary incentive. I've switched to just making videos when I want to. Anywho it was you who made FPV accessible. Your videos explaining how it all worked are what sparked me to give it a try. I now have a wall full of FPV drones. So thank you for that, I have always appreciated what you put out. Whether you continue or not, you have my eternal gratitude. Keep flying! - evol.
Regulations killed my fpv hobby many years ago. Now, my racing drones are displayed on the shelf like relics from the past. However, after all these years, I'm still subscribed to your channel. Thanks Bruce, this video brought back a lot of good memories.
I know it's beyond your control, but I miss the old flying videos. It was the cure for the winter time blues here in the states. I love your witty, sarcastic personality! Please dont ever change! Come visit the good old USA! Ive heard that you can fly anything anywhere in New Jersey these days without consequence...
I hope that Mr. Simpson doesn't give it up anytime soon, he was my first subscription through my current channel. This is good stuff!
You are my hero! Thanks for your dedication and perseverance, it's really inspiring!
You look like a stud, Bruce! Great to see you doing well.
Bless you Bruce, you are one of the gooduns! 🎉
I love you work I just found your channel I’m from Wellington! I’m 2 years into building fpv drones. I love it however I feel like I have to watch my back every time I take off I hope they sort the rules out! And keep up your fantastic work 😊
This was a fun video. Thank you Bruce!
always love watching your videos, been with you since 2017 when i first got the RC bug. my wife even knows you lol
Hi Bruce, have watched your videos for about 2 years and like it alot. Keep on with the good work 🙂
Cool throwback video! I havent been subbed that long (maybe a few years now) but have enjoyed watching your content. Dont comment all the time, but i do watch some.
👍👍 Bruce!! What a vivid contrast of today's totally unwarranted fear-driven overregulation vs carefree safe fun model flying before rabid rampant paranoia took over the braindead overseers of model flying years ago. I've been subscribed to this channel for so long I can't even remember when I happened upon it, but so glad I did. You and your lighthearted approach to your buddies enjoying flying at Tokoroa used to be so entertaining. It's no wonder that your popular videos spread around the world like wildfire. You sir, are a passionate very good hearted guy. We all appreciate not only what you continue doing for the hobby, but for your intelligence, sense of humor ...and... calling a spade an effing spade. Stay well and keep 'em coming brother! 😁
Bruce, my oldest video is from 12 years ago... Because before then I was focused more in writing... Long story. But it was another ch, I didn't want to mix things. You know?
I didn't put any new videos there either... Now I want to get back at it. My PC stopped working just before the pandemonium and the prices got crazy high...
Either way, I think I'm going to be able to get a new one this year. Before July, I hope, but by then I'm definitely going to be able to.
About regulations and bureaucrats, they think we don't think, let's put this way. It's not a new phenomenon either, but it's really getting worse!
Well... I hope it changes in the near future... But I wouldn't hold my breath.
Anyway, happy new year!
Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊
Hi there Bruce all the best for the new year. Unfortunately it's hard to risinde a rule because if someone does what was prohibited and there is an insedent then the organisation may be deemed responsible because they removed a rool
I'll keep an eye out for you filming when I pass thru Tokoroa next month
If you see me stop and say gidday!
HAPPY NEW Y YEAR Bruce !! THANK YOU for all these years of entertainment ❤️ 💕. OH Those were the Day's ! There has been wonderful success reversing Parkinson
s with a Keto diet, preferably Carnivore diet. The resurch shows that plants and sugar have such an inflammatory effect that the body fights it , but in an inappropriate way. Parkinson ,MS ,altzimers , Diabetes, Cancers. All of which show very quick recovery when your diet is changed. We must have animal fats and proteins to feed our brains. And red meat has the 3 Most Essential minerals and vitamins that which by the way you cannot get ANYWHERE ELSE . No plants or vegs, fruits have these in a form our body can use.
Yes, key things for me have been diet and exercise. The videos will continue -- just a shame that the local council has effectively made it impossible for me to continue filming people having fun with RC models at the local airfield.
@xjet yes the council problem is ridiculous. Electing them out of position will be the only recourse. Hopefully that will happen. CHEERS Steve h
Ron you legend
Thanks Bruce:) you're the GOAT!
Appreciate all you do 😊
Come visit California and fly at Baylands Park with us!..🤘🤠
I don't think they'd let me through immigration. Last time I was in the USA (to act as a technical consultant on the Junkyard Megawars TV series back in the very early 2000s) I had to "sneak" into the country. If I ever get my book published, all will be revealed then.