Media Release July 2016
Hunter Valley to host annual Balloon Fiesta
Balloon Aloft will once again host its annual Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta and organisers are expecting this year’s event to be the biggest yet.
Twenty hot air balloonists from around the country will to take to the skies in a beautiful display of colour on the weekend of 22 and 23 October. Joining them will be local pilot and current Women’s World Hot Air Ballooning Champion Nicola Scaife.
Nicola who is married to event organiser and Australian National Ballooning Champion, Matthew Scaife of Balloon Aloft, said the company, of whom she is a pilot for, was staging the event for the sixth time. “Prior to our first fiesta, an event such as this had never been staged before over the Hunter Valley. It really is a breathtaking experience to be on board one of the many balloons as they float together at dawn over the vineyards. We are looking forward to the opportunity to do it all again,” she said.
With beautiful weather conditions usually experienced in the Valley during springtime those taking part in this year’s event are expecting to take in some spectacular views.
The company is hoping to have close to 200 ballooning enthusiasts take part as passengers on board one of the 20 balloons flying in the fiesta. There are limited flight vouchers available so for those people interested in taking part they are encouraged to book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Tickets in last year’s event sold out in the weeks prior to the event.
Celebrations will continue afterwards at Peterson House with a gourmet breakfast and Champagne tasting. “There will be live music and a real party atmosphere,” said Nicola.
Whether flying or just wanting the chance to view the fiesta from the ground, passengers and spectators will have an early start meeting at Peterson House at around 5am.
• For more information on the Hunter Valley Fiesta please visit the Balloon Aloft website www.balloonaloft.com or to book your special price flight voucher call 02 4990 9242.
Media : for more images, interviews and more information contact Michelle Wills 0403 004 100