BEST PARAGLIDING SITES IN AUSTRALIA

There is 343 sites to discover in Australia and 4 guides available

Available guides:

Sydney

Probability of Paragliding in the next days
3 days 7 days 16 days
10% 27% 39%

Why go to Sydney, Australia

Sydney, a vibrant city known for its stunning harbourfront Sydney Opera House, with a distinctive sail-like design, offers a unique paragliding experience that c ...

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Bright

Probability of Paragliding in the next days
3 days 7 days 16 days
67% 59% 72%

Why Go to This Place

  • Bright is renowned for its dynamic flying conditions and is considered one of the best flying sites in Australia. It offers a variety of launch si ...

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Manilla

Probability of Paragliding in the next days
3 days 7 days 16 days
0% 32% 40%

Why go to Manilla, New South Wales, Australia

Manilla, located in New South Wales, Australia, is a renowned destination for paragliding enthusiasts from around the globe. It's celebrated fo ...

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Canungra

Probability of Paragliding in the next days
3 days 7 days 16 days
15% 25% 23%

Why go to Canungra, Australia

Canungra, nestled in the scenic hinterland of Queensland's Gold Coast, is a haven for paragliding enthusiasts. This small town is strategically positioned betw ...

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The Top 20 Paragliding sites in Australia:

Rainbow Beach

Site Rules and Information– Rainbow Beach

Rainbow Beach is located within the Cooloola Great Sandy National Park. National Parks generally consider HG and PG as unsuitable activity for a National Park but the Sunshine Coast Hang Gliding Club has been extremely lucky to be granted a permit for it’s members to be allowed to fly from Carlo Sand Blow but with strict conditions.

No more than 30 pilots on site at any one time. ALL pilots must be SAFA and SCHGC members. We are only allowed to use up 30% of the car park, so car pooling is essential. Do not walk on the walking track in large groups, break up into smaller groups (to avoid conflicts with other users). No landing south of the bathing area, as this is the 4WD access to the beach.

Click to watch video
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https://sunshinecoastsportsaviators.com.au/flying-sites/rainbow-beach/

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Portsea

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The site is within the Mornington Peninsula National Park so pilots should respect and enjoy the environment. Most importantly that means take-off cleanly from the ramp, land on the beach and return via the main access track. NO scrambling up and down the cliffs or dunes! Stay out of the sand dunes completely to protect their structure and to protect the birds and animals that live there. This means that flying operations of launching and landing are to be confined to the launch area, the beach and the interconnecting ramp. All of the beach may be used for landing and part, but not all, of the beach can be used for ground handling practice as well. However, launching from the beach at Portsea is not permitted. The beach area where ground handling is NOT permitted runs between the beach access ramp and a point 200 m west of the access ramp - see map. Beach nesting birds: Hooded Plovers nest in this area. Visit this page to learn more. Takeoff The path to the launch from the carpark leads to a glider set-up area, out of the wind on the right, and the synthetic turf take-off ramp to the left (see photo). Pilots should set up with the aim to being airborne about 1m before the edge of the ramp. For paragliders that means standing about 3m back from the edge before inflating the glider and being sure to keep quickly pulling the canopy up until its flying above your head - if you don't you'll get dragged back into the scrub! Landing Top landing on launch or landing on the beach. Beware the beach slopes quite dramatically and can be very difficult for hang gliders to land. The wind slightly off to west and tide fully out provides the best opportunity for landing. The beach widens towards London Bridge, watch for turbulence. Flight The total flyable distance is 8km. When flying below the point to the left of takeoff, be wary of the slight rotor which has claimed many kites. Flying to the Rip should only be attempted when the wind is off to the right (south) at takeoff. The dangers to watch out for are: The rotor behind London Bridge (more than one glider has crashed behind the Bridge). At high tide there is no landing area on the beach at some sections. The points in between the bays can be hazardous, and even more dangerous if the run is attempted with a wind which is not off to the right at takeoff. If at any stage of the run you should land, a long hard walk is in front of you, and if you are injured, help may be some time in getting to you. On an average day, heights of 300ft or so above launch are normal. The site record is probably held by Ken Hess in an Icarus V, with about 1000ft above, back in the late 70's. Hazards/Comments Spectators crowding around the takeoff and landing area, small or nil landing area at high tide, and power lines near the life saving club.

https://siteguide.org.au/Sites/Portsea.html

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Birdie Beach

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Teewah Beach Sunshine Coast

Teewah Beach, located within the Cooloola Great Sandy National Park in Australia, offers a unique and remote paragliding experience. Access to the site requires a 4x4 vehicle, and you must cross the North Shore Vehicle Ferry at Tewantin. A recreational vehicle permit is also necessary, which can be purchased online or at the National Parks office near the ferry. The site is known for its excellent coastal soaring conditions and the potential for cross-country flights when the wind is from the east-southeast. The primary launch area is a hang gliding ramp, with an alternative sandy takeoff 100 meters north, though this is rarely used. The launch is considered advanced, and pilots are advised to establish their wing before moving onto the ramp to avoid complications with the airflow. Teewah Beach is managed by the Sunshine Coast Hang Gliding Club, and pilots must be members to fly here. A Duty Pilot must be nominated each day to establish procedures, including radio frequencies and flight plans. Pilots must ensure their radios are in good working order and set to the nominated frequency. Landing is permitted on the soft sand above the high water mark within 1000 meters north or south of the launch area, provided it is safe and does not conflict with beachgoers or vehicles. All other protocols and regulations as per the Hang Gliding Federation of Australia (HGFA) apply. The site is suitable for all levels of pilots, though intermediate skills are required for launch. Experienced pilots should be present to assist with takeoffs. The primary contacts for safety and site information are: Paragliding Safety Officers: - Jonny Allen: 0438 107 518 - Jean Luc Lejaille: 0418 754 157 - Shane Gingell: 0417 619 167 - Tex Beck: 0407 238 017 Hang Gliding Safety Officer: - Dave Cookman: 0427 498 573 For local guides and schools, visit [Poliglide](http://www.poliglide.com.au/). For more detailed site rules and information, visit the [Sunshine Coast Sports Aviators](http://sunshinecoastsportsaviators.com.au/flying-sites/teewah-beach/). To purchase a vehicle permit online, visit [Queensland National Parks](http://parks.nprsr.qld.gov.au/permits/). For a visual overview, check out this [YouTube video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6ufOaLTpew). Remember to follow all safety protocols and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable flying experience at Teewah Beach.

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Bald Hill South

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One of the world's great coastal sites. Best when it's between S and E at 10-20kn for hang gliders and 5-15kn for paragliders. The Bureau Of Meteorology's Bellambi observations give you a good idea of what the conditions will be like. 

Please check the Stanwell general site rules document

Webcam and weather here

 All flyers must be current financial members of both the SAFA and the Stanwell Park Hang Gliding & Paragliding Club. A 3 Day Membership is $10.
Markers must be placed to designate intended Landing areas before any flying is undertaken. Markers (cones) are kept in the store in the new lower toilet block. The key can be obtained from the kiosk in the park and will be provided to Club members on request. If there are no markers in place you may not fly this site.
Takeoff

The Point is the main launch area of Bald Hill. Top landing is NOT allowed in this area. Once pilots have launched from the hill they are to fly clear of this area. A No Fly Zone is depicted by the striped area within the photo. Hang-glider and paraglider pilots must not fly over the No Fly Zone at any altitude. This means no flying over the top of the hill. Pilots may fly behind the hill but may not cross over the Point to do so, nor can they cross over the Point to come from the back to rejoin the seaward lift. All pilots are requested to respect this No Fly Zone rule.


The Point(ESE-SSW) 

East Launch(E) 

Landing 

Pilots are requested to land in the area adjacent to the lagoon known as 'the chute' or the coned off landing area on the beach. 

An alternate landing area is located at the south end of the beach if landing in the regular designated area is inappropriate/unavailable. Pilots are requested not to land in the shaded area but paraglider pilots may collapse their canopy on this area. 

The white lines show the usual approach routes to the landing areas. 

 
South Face Top Landing 

Pilots intending to top land here should ensure that site markers are in place and that the duty pilot has opened the area for top landing on the day. Only suitably endorsed pilots may attempt top landings. See safety officer for details. 

  
East Face Top Landing 

Shaded areas designate the No Fly Zone. 

Pilots may not fly over this area of the hill at ANY altitude. Pilots are asked to fly only in front of the Hill or behind the Hill. Do Not Fly Directly Over the Hill. This is a regulation requested from Wollongong Council to assist in the deterrent of any mid air collisions affecting the spectators below 

 
Flight 

Set-up is pretty easy in front of the car park at Bald Hill (Remember there must be cones marking out the set-up area) but it can get a bit crowded at times. Make yourself known to the Safety officer on duty. If you're not a member of the club you must obtain a temporary membership before you fly. If you are not an SAFA member (e.g. you're from overseas) and want to fly the site then get temporary SAFA membership before coming to the site. 

Once in the air on a good day you can cruise up and down the coast from Garie down past Bulli. But you should know the limitations of the conditions and your glider. There are areas where you can land in an emergency but there are also rocks, trees and the sea waiting for you. Talk to the local pilots and keep a close eye on the weather conditions, they can change very quickly and ruin your whole day! Do not land in the sea - ever! If you do then you're pretty much ****ed. 

The main landing area is down on the Stanwell Park beach. It's not particularly difficult but it's surprising how many visiting pilots stuff it up. If the wind is strong and from the S or the E/NE watch for rotor coming off the spurs to the N and S of the 'chute'. The most significant danger is the close proximity of the public using the beach. The landing area has to be marked with cones/flags but people commonly stray into it, so watch out and make your approach with this in mind. Top landing is common for the paragliders and possible for hang gliders when conditions are suitable. You must be suitably endorsed for this. 

All pilots note: The launch sites near to the pie shop in the National Park are reserved for aero-model flyers and are off limits for all FlyStanwell pilots. Also please give these areas a wide berth when flying past. 

There you have it. On a good day it's an awesome place to fly. So what are you waiting for! 

Hazards/Comments 

Katabatic Winds 

Especially prevalent during the winter months, Katabatic winds occur right along the escarpment commencing from the deep south near Bellambi and extending north towards Bald Hill. Their occurrence is indicated by smooth water or glass-off along the waterline and on the lagoons in the landing areas. 

It is hard to imagine that a 20 knot S/E will be stopped in its tracks as this quiet unassuming but effective meteorological factor works it's way through. 

So keep and eye on the shadow as it makes it way across the landing area. 

Those that understand the demon and know their abilities can be seen making their approach from the ocean towards the park. For those yet to experience or experienced enough to pick or predict the katabatic factor, the most conservative and percentage approach is to fly straight down the beach. 

Sometimes these diametrically opposing winds can provide some quiet smooth lift in the form of convergence. But be prepared for the spin and rinse cycle as you descend and fly through the mixing layer.

View spot

Possum Shoot

Located in the Byron Bay region of Australia, this paragliding site offers a height of 136 meters and a horizontal distance of 115 meters. While it is rarely used, it does present opportunities for good cross-country (XC) flights. The site record stands at 53.9 km. For more information and guidance, you can reach out to the local paragliding school and guides at [Poliglide](http://www.poliglide.com.au/). For a visual experience of the site, check out these videos: [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDKIZN96cYM) [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p84w6pwEaKI)

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Point Cartwright 'Carties' Buddina Beach

This site in Queensland, Australia, features a small ridge with a height of 5-15 meters and a length of 200 meters. It is occasionally used for flights. The site record is 3.1 km. For local contact, you can reach out to the school or guides at Poliglide: [Poliglide](http://www.poliglide.com.au/). Take off information is not provided.

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Sunrise Beach Noosa Beach

Located in Australia, this paragliding site is rarely used and primarily suitable for soaring flights. The site record is 15.9 km, with a maximum distance of 16.9 km. For local contact, schools, or guides, you can visit [Poliglide](http://www.poliglide.com.au/). For a visual experience of the site, check out this [video](https://vimeo.com/52539030).

View spot

Bald Hill SE

https://siteguide.org.au/Sites/Stanwell%20Park%20-%20Bald%20Hill.html

Click to watch video
Youtube Video Thumbnail


One of the world's great coastal sites. Best when it's between S and E at 10-20kn for hang gliders and 5-15kn for paragliders. The Bureau Of Meteorology's Bellambi observations give you a good idea of what the conditions will be like. 

Please check the Stanwell general site rules document

Webcam and weather here

All flyers must be current financial members of both the SAFA and the Stanwell Park Hang Gliding & Paragliding Club. A 3 Day Membership is $10.
Markers must be placed to designate intended Landing areas before any flying is undertaken. Markers (cones) are kept in the store in the new lower toilet block. The key can be obtained from the kiosk in the park and will be provided to Club members on request. If there are no markers in place you may not fly this site.
Takeoff

The Point is the main launch area of Bald Hill. Top landing is NOT allowed in this area. Once pilots have launched from the hill they are to fly clear of this area. A No Fly Zone is depicted by the striped area within the photo. Hang-glider and paraglider pilots must not fly over the No Fly Zone at any altitude. This means no flying over the top of the hill. Pilots may fly behind the hill but may not cross over the Point to do so, nor can they cross over the Point to come from the back to rejoin the seaward lift. All pilots are requested to respect this No Fly Zone rule.

The Point(ESE-SSW) 

East Launch(E) 

Landing 

Pilots are requested to land in the area adjacent to the lagoon known as 'the chute' or the coned off landing area on the beach. 

An alternate landing area is located at the south end of the beach if landing in the regular designated area is inappropriate/unavailable. Pilots are requested not to land in the shaded area but paraglider pilots may collapse their canopy on this area. 

The white lines show the usual approach routes to the landing areas. 

 
South Face Top Landing 

Pilots intending to top land here should ensure that site markers are in place and that the duty pilot has opened the area for top landing on the day. Only suitably endorsed pilots may attempt top landings. See safety officer for details. 

 
East Face Top Landing 

Shaded areas designate the No Fly Zone. 

Pilots may not fly over this area of the hill at ANY altitude. Pilots are asked to fly only in front of the Hill or behind the Hill. Do Not Fly Directly Over the Hill. This is a regulation requested from Wollongong Council to assist in the deterrent of any mid air collisions affecting the spectators below 

 
Flight 

Set-up is pretty easy in front of the car park at Bald Hill (Remember there must be cones marking out the set-up area) but it can get a bit crowded at times. Make yourself known to the Safety officer on duty. If you're not a member of the club you must obtain a temporary membership before you fly. If you are not an SAFA member (e.g. you're from overseas) and want to fly the site then get temporary SAFA membership before coming to the site. 

Once in the air on a good day you can cruise up and down the coast from Garie down past Bulli. But you should know the limitations of the conditions and your glider. There are areas where you can land in an emergency but there are also rocks, trees and the sea waiting for you. Talk to the local pilots and keep a close eye on the weather conditions, they can change very quickly and ruin your whole day! Do not land in the sea - ever! If you do then you're pretty much ****ed. 

The main landing area is down on the Stanwell Park beach. It's not particularly difficult but it's surprising how many visiting pilots stuff it up. If the wind is strong and from the S or the E/NE watch for rotor coming off the spurs to the N and S of the 'chute'. The most significant danger is the close proximity of the public using the beach. The landing area has to be marked with cones/flags but people commonly stray into it, so watch out and make your approach with this in mind. Top landing is common for the paragliders and possible for hang gliders when conditions are suitable. You must be suitably endorsed for this. 

All pilots note: The launch sites near to the pie shop in the National Park are reserved for aero-model flyers and are off limits for all FlyStanwell pilots. Also please give these areas a wide berth when flying past. 

There you have it. On a good day it's an awesome place to fly. So what are you waiting for! 

Hazards/Comments 

Katabatic Winds 

Especially prevalent during the winter months, Katabatic winds occur right along the escarpment commencing from the deep south near Bellambi and extending north towards Bald Hill. Their occurrence is indicated by smooth water or glass-off along the waterline and on the lagoons in the landing areas. 

It is hard to imagine that a 20 knot S/E will be stopped in its tracks as this quiet unassuming but effective meteorological factor works it's way through. 

So keep and eye on the shadow as it makes it way across the landing area. 

Those that understand the demon and know their abilities can be seen making their approach from the ocean towards the park. For those yet to experience or experienced enough to pick or predict the katabatic factor, the most conservative and percentage approach is to fly straight down the beach. 

Sometimes these diametrically opposing winds can provide some quiet smooth lift in the form of convergence. But be prepared for the spin and rinse cycle as you descend and fly through the mixing layer.

View spot

Portsea

The site is located within the Mornington Peninsula National Park in Australia. Pilots must respect the environment by taking off cleanly from the ramp, landing on the beach, and returning via the main access track. Avoid scrambling up and down the cliffs or dunes to protect the natural habitat. Takeoff is from a synthetic turf ramp, with a maximum wind speed of 20 knots from the south to southwest. The path from the carpark leads to a glider set-up area on the right and the take-off ramp on the left. Pilots should aim to be airborne about 1 meter before the edge of the ramp. For paragliders, this means standing about 3 meters back from the edge before inflating the glider and ensuring the canopy is fully above your head to avoid being dragged back into the scrub. Landing is on the beach in front of the launch area. Be cautious of sloping sand, especially at high tide when landing areas may be limited. The total flyable distance is 8 km. When flying below the point to the left of takeoff, be aware of the slight rotor that has caused issues for many kites. Flying to the Rip should only be attempted when the wind is from the south at takeoff. Dangers to watch out for include: - The rotor behind London Bridge, which has caused crashes. - Limited landing areas on the beach at high tide. - Hazardous points between the bays, especially if the wind is not from the right direction at takeoff. If you need to land during the run, expect a long walk, and assistance may be delayed if you are injured. On an average day, pilots can expect to reach heights of around 300 feet above launch. The site record is approximately 1000 feet, achieved by Ken Hess in an Icarus V in the late 1970s. Additional hazards include spectators crowding around the takeoff and landing areas, and power lines near the life-saving club. For more information, you can watch this video: [YouTube Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HB2OVHiSzeU).

View spot

Prattens Kilcoy

Located in the Kilcoy region of Australia, this paragliding site offers a launch altitude of 510 meters at Pratton's launch, which faces northwest. Local pilots note that the wind system here can also make it flyable under southwest winds. The height difference (HD) is approximately 300 meters, with the landing paddock situated at 263 meters above sea level. The site is occasionally used, and cross-country (XC) flights are possible. The site record stands at 36.0 km. To access the launch from the landing paddock, a four-wheel drive is required. Be prepared to clear any trees that might block the path up the hill. For more information and guidance, you can contact the local school or guides at [Poliglide](http://www.poliglide.com.au/). It is crucial to contact the local club, Conondale Flyers, before flying to ensure you are aware of any flight regulations and to get the latest site conditions.

View spot

Manilla Mt Borah-South

Mt Borah, located 15km north of Manilla along Wimbourne Rd in Northwest NSW, Australia, is a frequently used paragliding site known for its excellent cross-country (XC) flying potential. The site features an inland hill with an elevation ranging from 820-880m (2500-2700ft) above sea level, and the landing zones are situated at 400-450m (1200-1350ft). The area is characterized by flatlands interspersed with small hills and ridges, providing reliable thermal triggers and easier navigation for XC flights. The region benefits from excellent radio coverage due to UHF CB repeaters. The Mt Borah weather station is accessible online, offering up-to-date weather information. Mt Borah has four large launches facing north, south, east, and west, with altitudes between 340-440m AGL. The site is accessible by 2WD vehicles with good ground clearance, although a diesel-powered four-wheel drive is recommended for the direct road to the west landing zone. The road to the top is unsealed and closed when wet. Landing options include designated bomb-out areas directly in front of the launch sites. Top landing is possible for paragliders in the large cleared areas behind the launches, but pilots should be cautious of sink cycles. It's important to observe standard rules such as leaving gates as found, staying on established tracks, and avoiding cropped fields. Friendly interactions with local farmers can sometimes result in a lift to town. Hazards to be aware of include the significant slope of the W bomb-out area to the SSW and the challenging conditions during the middle of the day in summer for inexperienced pilots. For more information or to arrange a shuttle service, contact Manilla Sky Sailors or Godfrey Wenness, the local paragliding instructor and owner of most of Mt Borah. His website is www.flymanilla.com, and he can be reached at (+61 (0)2 6785 6545, 0427 856 545).

View spot

Tawonga Gap Mount Beauty

Tawonga Gap is an inland mountain ridge located in Victoria, Australia, on the southern side of the Kiewa Valley. The site sits at an elevation of 974 meters above sea level with a height difference of 585 meters. It is occasionally used for paragliding, and cross-country (XC) flights are possible. The takeoff is a ground ramp through a tree slot. The landing zone, known as Tawonga Gap LZ or Iaria’s Paddock, often has livestock and tall trees around its southern boundary. Pilots are advised to inspect the landing area before committing. Hang gliders typically land at the Mt Beauty airstrip instead. The landing paddock is not visible from the launch site and is located along the northern side of the main road into Mt Beauty, approximately 2 km from the Bright turnoff. Before embarking on XC flights, pilots should check the map for allowed and forbidden landing paddocks in the area. This site tends to be flyable earlier in the day compared to Mt Emu, which is on the northern side of the Kiewa Valley. The entire Kiewa Valley can be explored, with possible crossings to Bright and Mt Buffalo. However, pilots should be aware that the bomb-out area is out of visual range and high-tension powerlines run along this side of the valley, visible from the launch. To reach the launch site, travel the road between Bright and Mt Beauty. At the top of the ridge, cross the road switchbacks and head down the other side. At the switchback, take the track up the hill located right on the blind corner. The launch is approximately 1 km up on the left of the track. Refer to Vicroads Map 50 C5 for detailed directions. The site is managed by the Victorian Government's Department of Sustainability & Environment (DSE) and is licensed to the Victorian Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (VHPA). For more information, visit the VHPA downloads page. For additional details, images, and accommodations, visit [Paragliding365](http://www.paragliding365.com).

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Bright Mystic

Mystic Hill, located 2 km south of Bright, Victoria, Australia, is a highly frequented paragliding site known for its excellent cross-country (XC) potential. The launch direction is primarily North, but XC flights often head one way with a Southeast wind, and soaring is possible on the Southwest side of the launch. The best season to fly here is from November to March. Mystic Hill stands at 797 meters above sea level with a height difference of 477 meters. It is an inland, ridge, and mountain site that faces the valley wind, generating strong thermals. This site has hosted numerous state and national competitions, including a Paragliding World Cup event in 1998. A weather station is available on Mystic Hill. A Mystic flying pass is required to use this site and can be purchased through the NE Vic HG club website at www.nevhgc.net. Payment can be made via PayPal or credit card. Local pilots can provide flying information at the bomb-out on the Wandiligong road or at the Outdoor Inn campsite. Accommodation options include a backpackers in town, the Outdoor Inn near the landing ground, and various other types of lodging. There is also a hospital in Bright. The takeoff area is next to the road and unobstructed, with a 100-meter wide launch area. It is advisable to have a local pilot show you the site for the first time due to some potential hazards. The landing paddock is not visible from the takeoff and should be surveyed beforehand. For landing, there is a new ground on the right-hand side of the road to Wandiligong, with a car park at the end. The main bomb-out for hang gliders is across the Wandiligong road. Be cautious of trees upwind that can cause turbulence, especially with the prevailing NW valley breeze. Always check the map for allowed and forbidden landing paddocks before going XC. Ridge soaring is relatively easy once above the height of the trees behind the launch, though it can be bumpy. Thermals are often found above the spurs to the left and right of the launch. The lift is strong and rough during summer afternoons, so it is safer to launch before or after this period. Excellent XC flights have been achieved even with late launches around 5:30 pm. The site offers prime alpine flying conditions, with possible XC routes to Harrietville, Tawonga Gap, Kiewa Valley, Porepunkah Hill, Ovens Valley, Mt Buffalo, Myrtleford, and beyond. Hazards include strong lift during summer midday, power lines along the road beside the landing ground, and large expanses of challenging terrain to the south and between Pyramid Hill and the Kiewa Valley. Mystic Hill is approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Melbourne in the Victorian Alps. For more information, visit the NEVHGC website: http://www.nevhgc.net Contact: Alpine Paragliding: 0407 573 879, 03 5755 1753 Bright Backpackers Responsible Club: NEVHGC

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Flying Fox

Flying Fox, also known as Sky Devils Ranch, is a paragliding site located in Queensland, Australia. The site has an elevation of 606 meters (1990 feet) above sea level and is suitable for both regular flights and cross-country (XC) flying. Top landing is possible here. This site is very sensitive and requires strict adherence to access protocols. Visiting pilots are only allowed if accompanied by a full member of the Canungra Hang Gliding Club (CHGC). Spectator access to both the launch and bombout areas is prohibited. To access the site, you must contact either Phil Hystek or Brandon O'Donnell for verbal approval. They will inform the caretaker about your presence. Key guidelines include: - Keep the gate as you found it. - Avoid speeding and be mindful of increased traffic. - Carpool from Canungra or the Illinbah Rd-Table Top Road intersection to minimize the number of vehicles. - Park cars well clear of the tar road at the bottom of the hill. - No pets or public members are allowed at the launch site. - No smoking on the site, except inside your car. Remove all trash and cigarette butts. - Land only in the designated paddock. - Minimize unnecessary talk and avoid swearing or loud language in the bombout area. - Treat anyone you see as if they are the landowner and inform them you are a CHGC member. - Exit the bombout via the gully to the south of the dam, not past the house. The site features a small plateau with a dam and house located 1 km directly north of the launch. Top landings are possible near the wind streamer at the rear of the launch. Landing outside official bombouts is not permitted. Flying conditions can be challenging, with susceptibility to strong, rough conditions and valley convergence with the NE sea breeze. Check the wind direction using the streamer on the plateau at the rear of the launch. Be cautious of any westerly wind components, which can create rotory conditions. The launch area is narrow, accommodating only one glider at a time, requiring proficient launching skills. The retrieval road is narrow, so drive slowly and pull off the road when retrieving pilots. Additionally, there is a powerline running east-west across the Sarabah valley, about 1.5 km northeast of the launch. For more information, visit the Canungra Hang Gliding Club's website: [CHGC Flying Fox](http://www.chgc.asn.au/ffox.html). Contact: Phil Hystek: 0418 155 317 (mobile), 07 5543 4000 (home) Brandon O'Donnell This site is exclusively accessible to fully paid CHGC members. No temporary or day pilots are allowed.

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Mt Tamborine

Mt. Tamborine, Australia Elevation: 1916ft/584m ASL Wind Direction: NW-SW Paragliding: Intermediate; Supervised if under supervision of Instructor or Club Safety Officer Hang Gliding: Supervised Open to club members and visiting pilots. Takeoff: Access via sealed road along Main Western Rd, Mt. Tamborine (Refidex Gold Coast Map 23, L4). The launch site is a prime spectator spot, but please park in designated areas to avoid fines. Toilets are available at the launch site, and shops are within a 5-minute drive north. Landing: Main landing area is straight out from launch. Note that a horse paddock now occupies a substantial part of the parkland that was previously used as the bombout paddock. The corner area is essential for a safe approach and must not be used for packing up. The main bombout can be accessed by traveling down through Canungra, following Mundoolun Rd, and turning right into Wagonwheel Rd. Access is via the first vacant block of land on the left after Fenwick Drive. Other landing areas include: - Cat Motel Paddock at Wonglepong/Mundoolun Rd junction. - Top landing at Long Road Paddock, about 1km behind launch. No Landing Zones: - Anywhere between the Wonglepong paddock and the concrete bridge toward Canungra. - Old training hill, now a Polo field. - Horse paddocks to the East of the Bombout. - New No Landing area west of the Model Airfield (1200m circle around 56 J 508938, 6906688). Flight Hazards/Comments: Spring and Summer bring strong thermals with potential major sink cycles. A common situation is a westerly wind in the morning and a SE or NE sea breeze reaching Tamborine launch in the early afternoon. Assistance from a sensible person to watch for tailwind onset is recommended when launching a hang glider. Be aware of wind strength and distance to bombout areas. The launch slope is shallower than ideal and can be troubled by turbulence from the shelf in front of the launch and from trees on the sides. Face landing is for advanced pilots only when there are no public or hang gliders on launch. Avoid setting up landing approaches low over houses near the main bombout. Trees on the north side cause turbulence and wind shadow in a northerly wind. Beware of the 7500ft height limit; see airspace map. Facilities: A Weather Talker can be accessed on UHF Channel 25, Tone Squelch 97.4 (6 clicks) or via phone on 0408 744 791. The Wind Talker is partially funded by the Gambling Community Benefit Fund. Local Contact: http://www.chgc.asn.au/tambo.html Local school/guides: http://www.poliglide.com.au/ For more information, visit: http://www.chgc.asn.au

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Lizard Head

Dune soaring is a less common form of paragliding that involves flying along coastal sand dunes. This activity is particularly rare and often discouraged to protect the natural dune environments. In Victoria, Australia, there is a site with a record flight distance of 1.7 km. However, due to the environmental impact, it's important to consider alternative paragliding locations that are more sustainable and frequently used.

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Rainbow Beach Carlo Sand Blow

Rainbow Beach, Australia, offers a unique paragliding experience, often compared to the famous Dune de Pyla in France. This site is renowned for its superb dune flying, making it ideal for wagga and soft acro maneuvers. The launch area is situated in a venturi, so be prepared for stronger winds than forecasted due to the flat terrain. The site features nearly 10 kilometers of 100-meter-high sand dunes, providing beautiful coastal soaring opportunities. Takeoff can be done from anywhere on the sand blow, and landing is straightforward, either on top for paragliders and hang gliders or on the beach. However, avoid landing between the swimming flags if they are present. During high tide, accessing the site by car can be challenging due to rocks near the access ramp. If you land far south of the launch, hitching a ride with a 4WD vehicle is a viable option. Rainbow Beach is located about an hour's drive from Gympie. Park at the car park near the water tanks and radio tower, then follow the track to the sand blow, approximately 400 meters away. For more details, visit: [Rainbow Beach Paragliding](http://www.paragliding.net.au/rainbow-beach/) Check out these videos for a visual experience: [Vimeo Video 1](http://vimeo.com/51806596) [Vimeo Video 2](https://vimeo.com/32419577)

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Barwon Heads

Takeoff from below is rarely used. According to one source, it is closed due to dune erosion. However, the Victorian Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (VHPA) states it is possible but emphasizes the importance of not damaging the dunes in any way. Region: Victoria, Australia. The site record is 6.1 km. For more information, visit: [VHPA Dynasoarers](http://dynasoarers.vhpa.org.au/) Barwon Heads (13th Beach) is a sensitive coastal dune site with limited access. Do not walk through or kite up the dunes. Always give marked Hooded Plover nest sites plenty of room. Consider flying at Ocean Grove or other locations to reduce traffic at this site. NOTICE: Hang gliding operations at 13th Beach are restricted to the 40W location. Setup and launching are limited to one aircraft at a time. Top landing is banned except at the launch site at 40W. Negotiations are ongoing with Barwon Coast to develop a sustainable facility. Takeoff: Hang gliders set up and take off on the grass patch left of the access path at the westmost carpark (40W). Paragliders take off anywhere from the beach. Landing: Anywhere on the beach. Hang gliders can top land only at the launch site. If possible, pack up hang gliders on the beach to reduce impact on launch vegetation. Hazards/Comments: This site requires excellent ground handling skills for paragliders and good close flying skills for both hang gliders and paragliders. Contact: Dynasoarers, Rob van der Klooster (0408 335 559), Jan Bennewitz (0423 139 923). For visual reference, check out these videos: [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCga-tUju2E) [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0Pw18LVxmU)

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Other guides available in Australia :

Other guides available in Australia :