SpazSinbad
I instructed on Vamps and Macchis at PCE between '67 -'69. Did a lot of the staff Macchi conversions.
I recall another student night flying fatal, probably '68 Cdt Bill Best IIRC. Flew into the hills on the left turn after take-off on 18. The circuit height was 1200', at night a straight climb to 1200' was require before turning. Suspected that he turned at 200'. Very sad, he had good hands and feet.
The circuit was busy with Vamps and Macchis before Gin Gin, I didn't think it too bad.
Night was worse with just Vamps - they were almost invisible on down wind and finals when trying to workout if it was clear to turn crosswind or base.
Cheers