Parapente Cairns Bay 1

Cairns Bay, located in the Flinders region of Victoria, Australia, offers a unique paragliding experience primarily suited for coastal soaring. The site features a height of 32 meters and a length of 1,700 meters. This location is regularly used and provides various possible takeoff points, including options on the opposite side of the gap. Always follow local rules to ensure safety and compliance. Takeoff: Park in the small parking area off the road and walk down the track to the coast. Upon reaching the gully at the bottom, cross over to the left-hand side and make your way to the left-hand side cliff top. The takeoff area is just to the right of the bowl on the cliff top, which is a good grassy area. Landing: Top landing is recommended here due to the small and rocky beach, which can be non-existent at high tide. Beach landings have resulted in several injuries, so it's best to avoid them. Flight: The flying beat extends 1 km down the coast to Flinders ramp and along the coast to the right, but this is only advisable in optimal conditions. Fly the bowl and around the cliff to the left of the launch. The area is ideal for a southwest wind. Ensure you have at least 50 feet above the cliff top before venturing around the cliff to the left of the launch. Only fly around the point if the wind is straight on launch, as the rotor on the point has caused issues for some pilots. Soaring at Cairns Bay can be straightforward but potentially dangerous if the wind is slightly cross to the west or east. Inexperienced pilots should avoid flying out and in front of the large cliff to the left or right of takeoff due to severe rotor risks. Several severe accidents have occurred on this stretch of coast due to point-induced rotor, leaving no option but to land in the sea. Always consult with an experienced pilot before venturing out of the bay area. Hazards/Comments: Avoid beach landings due to the small or non-existent beach. Ensure you have enough height when flying around the cliff corner on the left-hand side of the launch to capture the lift band. Be cautious of rotor/turbulence that can occur on the point to the left-hand side of the launch if the wind is too cross. For more information, visit: [Sky High Paragliding](http://skyhighparagliding.org.au/) [Victoria Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association](http://www.vhpa.org.au/Sites/Cairns%20Bay.html) Watch videos of the site: [Video 1]( ) [Video 2]( )