BEST PARAGLIDING SITES IN AUSTRALIA

Sydney

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

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

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

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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Rainbow Beach

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Portsea

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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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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).

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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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Manilla Mt Borah-East

Manilla - Mt Borah - East Launch Located in Northwest New South Wales, Australia, Mt Borah is an inland hill with an elevation ranging from 820-880 meters (2500-2700 feet) above sea level. This site is highly regarded for cross-country (XC) flying due to its reliable thermal triggers and easy navigation. The flatlands in front of Mt Borah, interspersed with small hills and ridges, provide excellent conditions for XC flights. The area is well-covered by UHF CB repeaters, ensuring good radio communication. Takeoff: The East launch at Mt Borah is suitable for morning flights. The launch area is relatively flat, as is the glide out to the bombout zone. The hang glider (HG) launch is slightly to the left and steeper. Landing: Landing zones are located at the bottom of the hill, at elevations of 400-450 meters (1200-1350 feet). Hang gliders should note that the western bombout slopes down significantly to the SSW. Paragliders (PGs) can top land in the large cleared areas behind the launches, but should be cautious of sink cycles. Landings can be made anywhere in the region, provided you follow standard rules such as leaving gates as you find them, staying on established tracks, and avoiding cropped fields. Friendly interactions with local farmers are encouraged. Hazards/Comments: There are no significant hazards other than ensuring you land in the designated bombout areas directly in front of the launch. Inexperienced pilots should avoid flying in the middle of the day during summer to prevent turbulent conditions. Location: Mt Borah is located 15 km north of Manilla along Wimbourne Road. From Manilla, drive over the Namoi River bridge, turn left after 200 meters onto Boggabri Road, drive 1 km, and turn right at the Mt Borah sign with colored streamers. After 11 km, you will reach the base of Mt Borah. The road to the top is unsealed and closed when wet. A diesel-powered four-wheel-drive vehicle is required for the direct road to the west landing zone. The Manilla Paragliding school offers a shuttle service from their headquarters at the bottom of the hill. Landowners: Most of Mt Borah is owned by local paragliding instructor and former PG Open Distance World record holder, Godfrey Wenness. More information can be found on his website: [www.flymanilla.com](http://www.flymanilla.com). Contact: Manilla Sky Sailors Godfrey Wenness Phone: +61 (0)2 6785 6545, 0427 856 545 For more information on flight records and tracks, visit: [Paragliding Forum](http://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/tracks/world/alltimes/brand:all,cat:0,class:all,xctype:all,club:all,pilot:0_,takeoff:9286&sortOrder=FLIGHT_POINTS) Additional details can be found here: [Flight Log](http://no.flightlog.org/fl.html?l=2&a=22&country_id=13&start_id=397)

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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).

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Playgrounds Maleny

Located in Queensland, Australia, this paragliding site offers a takeoff height of 425 meters. While it is occasionally used, it provides very good opportunities for cross-country (XC) flights. Pilots can either topland or fly away from the site. The site record for distance is an impressive 153.3 km. For a visual overview, you can watch a video of the site here: [YouTube Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMnSc5EbUZM). If you're looking for local guidance or training, you can contact the local school and guides at [Poliglide](http://www.poliglide.com.au/).

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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).

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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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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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Ocean Grove

Ocean Grove, Victoria - Australia Ocean Grove offers a lovely coastal flying site with sand dunes stretching from Collendina to Point Lonsdale. The height of the dunes ranges from 2 to 15 meters, making it a good spot for coastal soaring and some cross-country (XC) flying. Takeoff: Access to the takeoff area is along the old road below the Ocean Grove lookout. Assistance on launch is recommended, and a positive takeoff is required. The site may look small, but staying within the lift band can get you high over the lookout. If the wind is strong, paragliders may choose to take off from a shelf below the path. Landing: Landings are on the beach. Do not walk up the face of any dunes. Use the concrete ramp next to the Life Saving Club for access to cars, or the steps back up to launch. This site has been lost before, and we do not want to lose it again. Flight: The Point Lonsdale Run is approximately 10 km one way, and you will rarely get over 100 feet. There is one very long gap, about 1 km east of Collendina, and three or four smaller gaps along the way. The view of 'The Rip' at the Point Lonsdale end is excellent. Pilots flying this trip should be at least intermediate level, able to self-launch, and should fly in pairs since there are not many people on this area of the beach. Hazards/Comments: Be cautious of people on the beach, especially near beach access points. The beach can be narrow or non-existent when the tide is in. Turbulence can occur when the wind is off, especially if it is around 20 knots. Location: From the Ocean Grove surf lifesaving club, the takeoff is east on the old road directly below the Ocean Grove lookout. Refer to Melways Map 94 A6 for detailed directions. The site is located 90 km southwest of Melbourne, via Geelong. Contact: Dynasoarers, Rob van der Klooster Phone: (03) 5222 3019, Mobile: 0408 335 559

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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.

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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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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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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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Beechmont Rosin's Lookout

Beechmont - Rosin's Lookout is a highly frequented paragliding site located near the Gold Coast, about an hour's drive south of Brisbane and approximately 800 km north of Sydney. This site is renowned for its excellent cross-country (XC) flying potential, especially during spring and summer when sea breezes influence the conditions most afternoons. The launch area is situated at an altitude of 530 meters above sea level, facing east. The site is open to club members and visiting pilots, but it is essential to contact the Canungra Hang Gliding Club (CHGC) before flying. The launch is on private property, easily accessible by a sealed road from Canungra along Beechmont Road, adjacent to Rosins Lookout. The launch area can experience strong thermic gusts, so pilots should be cautious and watch for other gliders face landing prior to takeoff. Facilities at the launch site include toilets, but there are no bins or drinking water available, so ensure you bring enough water. A windsock is available at the launch to help gauge wind conditions. The main bombout area is 2.6 km east of the launch, with an altitude difference of 370 meters. It is dissected by a fence running east-west, and there are power lines to the north of the bombout paddock. The bombout can be accessed by taking Beechmont Road north towards Nerang, then turning right at the bottom intersection and looking for Pocket Road on the right-hand side. For landing, there are two designated paddocks, and it is advisable to have a local pilot point them out to you. The bombout area also has a windsock. To get back up the hill, you can either be retrieved by car or follow the top of the spur on the right-hand side (south) of the launch, both taking about 1.5 hours. There is a logbook situated by the gates of the Beechmont Top Landing Area in a green box. Pilots are requested to date their flight in the logbook upon exiting the Top Landing Area to help ascertain usage numbers. For any queries, you can contact Walt or Ken at whnielsen@aol.com and ken_hill2@bigpond.com. The site record for Beechmont is 238.6 km, and more information can be found on the Canungra Hang Gliding Club website: http://www.chgc.asn.au/. Additionally, you can watch a video of the site here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sen9vayfO-8. Visiting pilots are required to pay site fees: $10 per day or $30 for 10 days, payable on the Canungra website. All pilots must abide by the Pilot Code of Conduct available on the CHGC website. Nearby attractions include Binna Burra Rainforest National Park, Gold Coast Beaches, and Mt Tamborine. There is also a nice café at lower Beechmont. For local contact schools or guides, visit: http://www.poliglide.com.au/. For more detailed information, visit the Canungra Hang Gliding Club website: http://www.chgc.asn.au/.

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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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Flaxton

Located in Queensland, Australia, this paragliding site offers a launch height of 386 meters with a horizontal distance of approximately 130 meters. It is considered medium-difficult and is occasionally used by pilots. This site is ideal for those looking to fly cross-country, particularly in the WNW/NW direction. However, there is no official landing zone, so it's best suited for experienced pilots aiming for long-distance flights. The site has seen some impressive flights, with the longest recorded distance being 114.1 km. Another notable flight reached 19.2 km. The site faces east and is situated on private property, so you will need to coordinate with local pilots to gain access. Bottom landing options are limited, and top landing is also on private property. Be prepared to navigate sections of forest if you fly over the back. For more information and local guidance, you can contact the local school or guides at [Poliglide](http://www.poliglide.com.au/). Check out some videos of flights from this site: [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sl7DfIfEU-0) [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwYodeF-eaE)

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Budgewoi

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