Story: Avon Valley Hot Air Ballooning
Episode: 19
Presenter: Trevor Cochrane
Air Date: 28 June 2026

Trevor takes to the skies above the Avon Valley, experiencing one of Western Australia's most unique and memorable adventures — a sunrise hot air balloon flight over the countryside near Northam.

• Located approximately 90 minutes from Perth, Northam in the Avon Valley is the only destination in Western Australia offering commercial hot air balloon flights.
• Launching before sunrise, balloon flights provide visitors with the opportunity to witness the transition from night to day while floating high above the landscape.
• The experience offers panoramic views of the Avon Valley's rolling farmland, river systems, historic townships and natural bushland.
• Unlike many other forms of aviation, hot air ballooning is renowned for its peaceful and tranquil nature, allowing passengers to drift silently with the wind.
• The Avon Valley is also emerging as a popular astrotourism destination, with lower levels of light pollution creating ideal conditions for stargazing and night sky experiences.
• As dawn breaks, visitors can observe the region's diverse landscapes from a unique perspective, including the Avon River and some of Western Australia's oldest inland settlements.
• The quiet nature of ballooning also provides opportunities to spot local wildlife, including kangaroos, native birdlife and Northam's famous white swans.
• Northam is home to what is believed to be the only wild breeding population of white swans in Australia, making them one of the region's most distinctive natural attractions.
• Hot air ballooning has become a popular choice for special occasions, bucket-list experiences and visitors seeking a different way to explore regional Western Australia.
• The combination of spectacular sunrise views, peaceful flight conditions and the natural beauty of the Avon Valley makes ballooning one of the state's most unforgettable tourism experiences.
• Whether you're seeking adventure, romance or simply a new perspective on Western Australia, a sunrise balloon flight over the Avon Valley delivers a truly memorable experience.