Balloons Over Brisbane

balloon crew chief-jason biddle

Also manages the Main Office with all its concerns.

For almost 12 years he has been getting up before the birds, breathing in the daybreak air and 'chasing' Hot Air Balloons. He also makes sure there's plenty of Breakfast Goodies for one and all. Outside of crewing for Balloons Over Brisbane he loves to play Golf, is an amateur Movie Critic and a happy 1 or 2 day B&B frequenter.

balloon crew - kevin fewtrell

Became involved with crewing through Andrew

Like Andrew has been crewing for the past 12 years or so.

balloon crew - chris brown

Started crewing on a help out basis, a few years ago

He loved the work so much he has now become part of the permanent weekend crew. He also works with his partner Jenny Whiley our booking agent, answering your questions and taking your bookings.

JENNY
Works from home and you can call her anytime between 7:30am and 7:30pm 7 days a week.

Has worked with Balloons over Brisbane for nearly 6 years now. She really enjoys the work.

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THE GROUND CREW

THE GROUND CREW

The crew helps the pilot rig the equipment, holds open the envelope while it fills with cold air, and applies weight to the outside of the basket as needed before launch. Then they follow the balloon on the ground, and after the landing help the pilot pack everything up and bring it home again.

Much of the crews workload consists of carrying heavy equipment from the truck to and from launch and landing spots. It’s hard work. It’s also extremely rewarding and lots of fun. There’s always the chance that if there is room in the basket, the pilot will say “Jump in!”

The most fun, aside from meeting the passengers and sharing in their wonder and delight, is the task of holding onto the rope line as the balloon becomes inflated enough to “stand up.” The action drags the crew member sliding across the ground ~ (without the weight resistance on that rope, the balloon would pop up too quickly, instead of easing itself upright).

The crew uses radios with which to coordinate chase operations. The pilot gives talks to the crew about direction of flight, roads, and intended landing sites. The crew notifies the pilot of any ground hazards, changing weather conditions on the surface, hidden livestock (which can be frightened by the noise of the burner) and owner permissions to land.

Long after the last glass of champagne has been downed, the crew is still working ~ refuelling the propane tanks, cleaning the vehicle interiors and making sure everything is ready to go the following morning.

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