Taking to the skies across the day were pilots in a range of aircraft – from warbirds to formation teams who fly within what seems like inches of each other.

Among the Soar, Ride and Shine crowds was Bathurst family Ashley Bland, his wife Julia Strang and their children Tilly, 3, Daisey, 2, and Otis, two months.

“It was really good, we’ve been here most of the day,” Mr Brand said. 

“It’s good for Bathurst and good for the community, I hope they do it again.

The family were among those to park their car in Ceramic Drive and catch the free bus to the event. 

“It’s been a really well-staged event,” Mr Brand said.

The family were among the crowds who brought along picnic blankets to watch the air show and check out the static aircraft display.

One of the most popular attractions was taking a peek inside the Royal Australian Air Force’s C27J Spartan. The massive plane, one of only two in Australia, had a long line of people waiting to get on board.

RAAF warrant officer Shaunn Segen said at one point there was an hour-long wait to step inside the plane.

“Kids love the flight deck and talking to the pilots,” he said.

Paul Bennet Airshow pilot Glenn Graham said it was wonderful to bring the show to a regional location. Among the 20 aircraft that took part were a number of World War II planes, including a Grumman Avenger, a CA18 Mustang and a T28 Trojan.

“It’s great to bring it to the public, the main air shows are [usually] in the bigger cities,” Mr Graham said.

Also on display yesterday was the biggest range of cars and motorbikes that many people had seen, with more than 300 lined up.

Everything from classics to one-of-a-kind modern vehicles were included, with many traveling from across the Central West.

 All funds raised from yesterday’s event will go to Lifeline Central West.