The Benalla State Emergency Service Unit was quickly dispatched to the scene and helped free her.
Benalla SES volunteer Graham Milner said that despite being in a critical condition Ms Neighbour survived.
"(She had) many injuries, some severe, and extrication was protracted due to the glider’s damage,“ Mr Milner said.
As they worked to free her an ancillary motor continued to operate behind her head, making the process dangerous and tricky.
Luckily for all involved they were successful and Ms Neighbour was transferred to the care of the Air Ambulance which transported her to hospital.
Ms Neighbour, who with her husband Edward made regular trips from England to Benalla, would fully recover.
However, it turned out to be the last glider flight she would pilot.
Mr Milner said it was a surprise to everyone at the Benalla unit when last week it heard that Mr and Ms Neighbour were keen to donate £10,000 to the SES unit which worked so hard to save her, all those years ago.
“That amounts to around $17,500,” Mr Milner said.
Close friend, glider pilot and former Benalla resident Bruce Salter presented the cheque to the Benalla SES unit last week.
Mr and Ms Neighbour were able to watch the presentation live on the internet.
Benalla SES senior assistant chief officer Ray Jasper joined Mr Milner to receive the cheque.
Both had an opportunity to speak with Mr and Ms Neighbour.
“We thanked them sincerely and (advised) that the donation would be put to good use acquiring much needed equipment for the unit,” Mr Milner said.
Mr Jasper said it was a huge contribution which supported the unit to enhance and strengthen its capability in rescue and support in the Benalla community.
The couple also donated a similar amount to Air Ambulance Victoria in Bendigo.
38°C