Ballooning in the Hunter Valley
We woke in the very early hours as we had to arrive pre-dawn in Pokolbin in
the Hunter Valley. Even though my parents lived in the Central Coast of NSW it
was still some way. Anyway - we're young and it's all doable !
;
I managed to score a special deal with my university to go ballooning. It was
a bargain basement price in the affordable range for an impoverished student
such as myself. My good friend Simone was interested in coming along, as
neither of us had done it before.
We all ferry over there in a mini-bus. Driving here there and everywhere; based on some black magic wind divining, the winds and thermals and so on are analysed by the experts and a take-off point is chosen. We park in a field, the balloons are offloaded and set up ready for inflation.
We all ferry over there in a mini-bus. Driving here there and everywhere; based on some black magic wind divining, the winds and thermals and so on are analysed by the experts and a take-off point is chosen. We park in a field, the balloons are offloaded and set up ready for inflation.
The fans are loud and large. There is a lot of air to be pumped in at great
speed.
Peering inside the balloon, there is a man standing, no doubt checking for
rips and tears and any other issues. I inwardly remark on how thin this fabric
is that we entrust our lives to.
The morning is chill with the mist still wafting around us. Seemingly forever
this process. Somewhat underdressed, our anxious anticipation overrides the
shivering knowing we are soon to be in the air.
Before we know it some are up, up and away.
Soon enough, it is our turn. There is a group of eight, two per cubicle and
the pilot. How this thing is going to lift us? How we are all going to fit in
that little basket ? It is a marvel in packaging. Just as well that personal
space isn't an issue !
As we rise people rapidly become the size of insects and diminish to specks.
Up in the air the views are quite a something, the trees, fields, vineyards
and misty hills.
No time to think about vertigo, it somehow isn't an issue. Sitting in a
balloon basket aloft and seeing another above rising into the illuminated
cloudscape is a surreal experience.
Did we enjoy it ? Look how big our smiles are !
Like the fairies, we are on frolicking in the clouds.
Sadly, it's all over. Load the balloon assembly onto the trailer and a
champagne breakfast. Back to the mundane, or next adventure; may it come soon
!
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