Recently the RAAF came to town with a hot air balloon to re-enact the first Australian modern hot air balloon flight which happened in Parkes in 1964.  

The view from Memorial Hill on that morning was spectacular, seeing this balloon along with Phil Kavanagh’s sailing over Parkes.

Later that afternoon we had afternoon tea at McDonalds, with our nephews and niece (who had a friend to play as it was her birthday).

We noticed the balloon at Cheney Park. 

The kids were excited, and wanted to see it up close. 

My husband and I took them over for a look only to find they were giving rides in the balloon.

When I asked how much, the gentleman said “it’s free, line up and divide yourselves up in 300 kg”.

After a quick induction we were helped into the basket, and explained  the gas would be loud, and we should cover our ears if necessary.  

What an amazing experience, up we went and the kids loved it.

After our ride they handed out key rings and other souvenirs, and the rides continued for another hour for locals to enjoy their balloon.

Thank you to those who organised this, and braved the cold night air, so kids who otherwise wouldn’t have had a chance to ride in a hot air balloon could do so.

I understand they did it all over again on Saturday afternoon!

Jennie and Rodney Barnes

Parkes