The Winter Fun Flights 2026 brought experienced hot air balloon pilots, crews and ballooning enthusiasts together in the Magalies River Valley from 17 to 19 July 2026. Hosted by Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris, the weekend celebrated friendly competition, flying skill, ballooning camaraderie and 45 years of ballooning heritage.

The event brought together sports balloonists, commercial pilots, hobbyists, crew members and friends from the South African ballooning community for a weekend of friendly competition, skilful flying and good old-fashioned ballooning camaraderie.

Held during our 45th anniversary year, the Winter Fun Flight Fest was also a celebration of the people, traditions and shared passion that have shaped ballooning in South Africa over many decades.

Winter Fun Flights 2026 Takes to the Sky

The pilots were presented with a series of challenges designed to test their ability to read the wind, control their balloons and make sound decisions throughout each flight.

The competition was never simply about reaching a destination. Pilots needed to demonstrate judgement, patience, timing, speed control and, above all, safe and responsible flying.

Saturday morning’s competition combined two recognised ballooning tasks: Judge Declared Goals and a Calculated Rate of Approach.

Three designated landing goals were available, and each pilot was required to declare which goal they intended to reach before take-off. They then had to manage their speed and direction carefully, aiming to land at the selected field within the designated arrival period.

Points were awarded for reaching the correct or an alternative field, together with points based on the balloon’s arrival time. GPS safety tracks were used to assist with the scoring and auditing of the results.

It was an entertaining challenge for spectators, but a demanding exercise for the pilots, who had to work with the wind rather than against it. As every balloonist knows, the wind always has the final say.

Flying Challenges at the Winter Fun Flights 2026

Hot air ballooning is entirely weather dependent, and the safety of pilots, crew, passengers and spectators must always come before competition.

Unfortunately, Saturday afternoon’s fly-in challenge was cancelled due to strong winds.

The challenge scheduled for Sunday morning was also cancelled because of strong winds and a wind direction that was not conducive to a safe flight.

Although everyone would have loved another opportunity to take to the skies, the decision not to fly was the correct one. Knowing when not to launch is just as important as knowing how to fly, and responsible decision-making remains one of the most important skills in aviation.

The final competition results were therefore calculated from the official challenge elements that could be completed safely.

Winter Fun Flights 2026 Placements and Prize Winners

Following the completion and auditing of the official competition scores, the final placements were announced.

First place: Ian Schilz

Ian Schilz took first place in the Winter Fun Flight Fest 2026.

His prize was a two-night stay for two adults sharing at the beautiful SiriMiri Cottage in Dullstroom.

Second place: Juandre Janse van Vuuren

Juandre Janse van Vuuren achieved overall second place.

His prize was a one-night stay for two adults at Leopard Lodge.

Third place: Felicity Clegg

Felicity Clegg secured third place overall.

Her prize was a one-night stay for two people sharing at the Indaba Hotel, including breakfast at Epsom Restaurant and dinner at Chief’s Boma, excluding drinks.

Congratulations to Ian, Juandre and Felicity on their achievements during the official competition challenges.

Ian Schilz, first-place winner of the Winter Fun Flight Fest 2026.

Juandre Janse van Vuuren, second-place winner of the Winter Fun Flight Fest 2026.

Felicity Clegg, third-place winner of the Winter Fun Flight Fest 2026.

Fun Awards and Spot Prizes

Special prizes were also awarded during the completed challenges.

Friday afternoon: Eugene Schilz

Eugene Schilz received a one-night stay for two people sharing at the Indaba Hotel, including breakfast at Epsom Restaurant and dinner at Chief’s Boma, excluding drinks.

Saturday morning: Juandre Janse van Vuuren

Juandre Janse van Vuuren received a two-hour Gin School Masterclass experience for two people at the Indaba Hotel.

The fun awards

Not every memorable achievement can be measured by GPS or recorded on a score sheet. A number of light-hearted awards were presented in recognition of the personalities, teamwork and memorable moments that made the weekend so enjoyable.

Cheese-kop Award: Jim Seton-Rogers

For keeping his head in the game, even when you have had a few holes in his plans! Jim received 1 kg of cheese from Van Gaalen Kaasmakerij.

Best Spirit Award: Ianthé Honiball

Ianthé received a two-hour Gin School Masterclass for two people at the Indaba Hotel, together with a R200 voucher for Wimpy Arrow’s Rest.

Best Dressed Team: Dave MacGregor

Dave and his team received a R200 Mugg & Bean Hartbeespoort voucher and a R200 Vovo Telo Hartbeespoort voucher.

Best Inflation: Eugene Schilz

Eugene received a Van Gaalen Cheese Tour for two adults.

Most Enthusiastic Participant: Alan Turner

Alan received a Van Gaalen Cheese Tour for two adults.

Early Bird Award: Dale de Klerk

Dale received an Indaba Hotel Tasting Room experience for two adults, including a wine and chocolate pairing.

Finding Nemo Award: Hein van der Merwe

Hein received Villa Paradiso weekend buffet breakfast vouchers for two adults, together with a R100 Mugg & Bean Hartbeespoort voucher.

Most Miles Walked in a Day: Armand “Kortbroek”

Armand, who certainly earned his title as Daleen’s runner, received Villa Paradiso weekend buffet breakfast vouchers for two adults and a R100 Vovo Telo Hartbeespoort voucher.

Pilot’s Pilot Award: Jim Seton-Rogers

Jim received a Black Horse Brewery beer or gin tasting for two, together with a gift bag from DJA Aviation Insurance.

The Pilot’s Pilot Award is particularly special because it recognises the respect and appreciation of fellow balloonists. Congratulations, Jim.

Participating Pilots

We were delighted to welcome the following pilots and participants to the Winter Fun Flight Fest 2026:

• Alan Turner
• Dale de Klerk
• Dave MacGregor
• Eugene Schilz
• Felicity Clegg
• Hein van der Merwe
• Ian Schilz
• Ianthé Honiball
• Jim Seton-Rogers
• Juandre van Vuuren

Thank you to every pilot for participating in the event with enthusiasm, professionalism and respect for the safety decisions made throughout the weekend.

A Special Thank You to Deon

A very special thank you goes to Deon Grové for his invaluable assistance with the planning of the competition tasks, scoring and auditing of the results. Creating fair, practical and enjoyable ballooning challenges requires considerable knowledge and careful preparation. Deon’s experience, attention to detail and calm assistance helped ensure that the completed competition elements were properly planned and fairly assessed.

His contribution behind the scenes was greatly appreciated by everyone involved.

Thank you to our generous prize sponsors

An event such as this would not be possible without the generosity and support of our prize sponsors and partners.

We extend our sincere thanks to:

• Indaba Hotel
• Chief’s Boma (Indaba Hotel)
• Epsom Restaurant (Indaba Hotel)
• Indaba Gin School
• Leopard Lodge
• SiriMiri Cottage Dullstroom
• Van Gaalen Kaasmakerij
• Mugg & Bean Hartbeespoort
• Vovo Telo Hartbeespoort
• Wimpy Arrow’s Rest
• Villa Paradiso
• Black Horse Brewery
• DJA Insurance

BMW Northcliff, for the diaries included in the participant’s goodie bags
Training Masters, for the chutneys included in the participant’s goodie bags
Waves Headwear, for the beanies included in the participant’s goodie bags

Your generous contributions added another layer of fun and celebration to an already memorable weekend. From the wonderful competition prizes to the thoughtful items included in the participant goodie bags, each contribution helped us make the Winter Fun Flights 2026 even more special for our pilots, crews and participants.

Celebrating Ballooning Friendship and Heritage

The Winter Fun Flight Fest 2026 was about far more than rankings and prizes.

It was an opportunity to bring the ballooning community together, share knowledge, enjoy some friendly rivalry and celebrate a form of aviation that continues to capture the imagination of people around the world.

For Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris, hosting the event during our 45th anniversary year made it especially meaningful. Since 1981, we have seen ballooning technology, navigation and operating standards evolve, but the heart of ballooning has remained the same: respect for the weather, trust between pilot and crew, and the remarkable friendships formed through a shared love of flight.

Thank you to every pilot, crew member, team member, sponsor, guest and spectator who helped make the Winter Fun Flight Fest 2026 such a memorable occasion.

Until the next friendly challenge, may the winds be gentle, the landings be smooth and the retrieval vehicles never be too far away.

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

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The countdown is on to the Winter Fun Flights 2026, taking place from 17 to 19 July at Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris, and we’re thrilled to announce a fantastic selection of prizes that will be up for grabs throughout the weekend.

While the Winter Fun Flights are all about celebrating the spirit of hot air ballooning, friendly competition and lifelong friendships, our generous sponsors have helped make this year’s event even more memorable with an exciting range of prizes and experiences.

A Weekend of Rewards

Participants will have the opportunity to win a variety of prizes, including:

• A two-night stay for two at the beautiful SiriMiri Cottage in Dullstroom.
• Overnight experiences at the Indaba Hotel, including dinner at Chiefs Boma and breakfast at Epsom Restaurant.
• Gin School Masterclass experiences for two.
• Wine and Chocolate Pairing experiences.
• Mugg & Bean Hartbeespoort vouchers.
• Vovo Telo Bakery & Café Hartbeespoort vouchers.
• DJA Aviation Insurance gift bags.
• Weekend gas sponsorship and several surprise spot prizes.

More Than a Competition

Although prizes add an extra element of excitement, the true reward is the opportunity for pilots to spend the weekend doing what they love most: flying with friends, testing their skills through a series of fun competition tasks, and celebrating the remarkable camaraderie that has always been part of the ballooning community.

As Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris celebrates 45 years of ballooning, the Winter Fun Flights continue to honour the friendships, traditions and passion that have shaped the sport over the decades.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Events like the Winter Fun Flights would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors.

We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed prizes and experiences for this year’s event. Your support helps make the weekend even more special for the pilots and crews who continue to keep the spirit of ballooning alive.

We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Magalies River Valley for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend of flying, friendship and fun.

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

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Imagine spending an evening immersed in pure relaxation before rising with the sun to experience one of South Africa’s most iconic adventures.

Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris has partnered with Mowana Spa and the Indaba Hotel to create an exclusive luxury getaway that combines wellness, romance, indulgence, and adventure in one unforgettable experience.

The Time Out Night Spa & Hot Air Balloon Experience offers couples and discerning travellers the opportunity to enjoy a tranquil overnight escape before soaring above the spectacular Magalies River Valley at sunrise.

A Journey of Relaxation and Rejuvenation

Nestled within the lush indigenous gardens of the Indaba Hotel in Fourways, Mowana Spa has become one of Johannesburg’s premier wellness destinations, offering guests a peaceful sanctuary away from the pace of city life.

Your experience begins with an evening of pampering designed to restore balance, calm the mind, and soothe tired muscles.

The package includes:

• Welcome drinks and light snacks on arrival
• A luxurious Full Body Massage
• A relaxing Foot & Lower Leg Massage
• A delicious two-course Spa Dinner
• Complimentary local beverages
• Overnight accommodation in a Deluxe Double Room at the Indaba Hotel
• Romantic rose petal turn-down service
• Return transport to and from the balloon launch site
• A sunrise hot air balloon safari with Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply taking time to reconnect, every element of the experience has been carefully curated to deliver comfort, tranquillity, and lasting memories.

Rise Before Dawn for a Bucket-List Adventure

After a peaceful night’s rest, your adventure continues before sunrise as you journey to the launch site in the heart of the beautiful Magalies River Valley.

As the first light of day paints the sky in shades of gold and orange, you’ll gently ascend aboard a hot air balloon and drift silently above one of Gauteng’s most picturesque landscapes.

Floating effortlessly above rolling countryside, rivers, and distant mountain ranges offers a perspective unlike any other. The experience is peaceful, breathtaking, and often described as life-changing by first-time passengers.

For more than 45 years, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris has introduced visitors from around the world to the magic of hot air ballooning, making it one of Gauteng’s most sought-after bucket-list experiences.

The Celebration Continues After Landing

The experience doesn’t end when the balloon touches down.

Following the flight, guests enjoy the traditional Bill Harrop’s sparkling wine celebration before being welcomed to the Clubhouse Pavilion for a full English buffet breakfast overlooking the magnificent Magaliesberg Mountains.

Included in every balloon safari:

• Pre-flight tea, coffee, or hot chocolate
• Approximately one hour in flight
• Sparkling wine served on landing
• A full English buffet breakfast
• A personalised Certificate of Bravery

All flights are weather dependent and operated in accordance with strict South African Civil Aviation Authority regulations and pilot discretion.

Perfect for Special Occasions

The Time Out Night Spa & Hot Air Balloon Experience is ideal for:

• Romantic getaways
• Anniversaries
• Birthdays
• Honeymoons
• Marriage proposals
• Special celebrations
• Luxury weekend escapes

Combining an indulgent spa retreat with one of South Africa’s most memorable sunrise experiences creates the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure.

Package Information

Valid: 3 June 2026 to 30 August 2026
Available: Wednesday to Saturday
Price: From R10,999 per couple

Bookings are essential and subject to availability.

Booking Information

For reservations and package enquiries, please contact Mowana Spa directly:

Mowana Spa at Indaba Hotel
☎ 0861 669 262
✉ reservations@mowanaspa.co.za

Or book online via the Mowana Spa website.

Your Luxury Escape Awaits

Spend an evening being pampered beneath the stars, wake before dawn to witness the sunrise from a hot air balloon, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Relax. Reconnect. Rise with the sun. The ultimate Gauteng getaway is waiting.

All balloon safaris are weather dependent and operated in accordance with strict aviation safety regulations and pilot discretion.

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19 to 21 June 2026 | Magalies River Valley, South Africa

Winter Flight Fest 2026 will bring local and international hot air balloon pilots together in the Magalies River Valley from 19 to 21 June 2026. Hosted by Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris as part of its 45th birthday celebrations, the event will showcase the spirit of ballooning through scenic flights, friendly challenges, aviation camaraderie and a shared passion for lighter-than-air flight.

Why Winter Flight Fest 2026 Is Being Held in the Magalies River Valley

As part of our 45th Birthday Celebrations, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris is delighted to announce the inaugural Winter Flight Fest, taking place from 19 to 21 June 2026 in the beautiful Magalies River Valley.

This special event will bring together a number of local and international hot air balloon pilots for a weekend dedicated to flying, friendship, fun challenges and the shared passion that unites balloonists around the world.

For over four decades, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris has welcomed guests to experience the magic of hot air ballooning above one of South Africa’s most scenic landscapes. The Winter Flight Fest continues this tradition by celebrating not only the adventure of flight, but also the people who make ballooning such a unique and enduring aviation community.

More Than Just a Balloon Meet

We designed the event as a relaxed “mini meet” rather than a formal competition. Pilots will have the opportunity to fly in the spectacular winter conditions for which the Magalies River Valley is renowned, while participating in a series of light-hearted ballooning challenges and activities.

The emphasis is not on winning trophies or setting records. Instead, the focus is on camaraderie, knowledge sharing and enjoying the privilege of flying alongside fellow balloonists.

Participants will compete for a selection of fun prizes and bragging rights, but the true reward lies in the friendships forged, stories shared and memories created throughout the weekend.

Why the Magalies River Valley?

• The Magalies River Valley has long been regarded as one of South Africa’s premier ballooning destinations.
• Winter offers some of the most stable and picturesque flying conditions of the year. Crisp mornings, spectacular sunrises and gentle winds combine to create ideal conditions for hot air ballooning.
• Visiting pilots will have the rare opportunity to experience this remarkable landscape from the air, drifting above rolling countryside, winding rivers and the ancient Magaliesberg mountain range as the African sunrise illuminates the valley below.

Celebrating 45 Years of Ballooning Excellence

The Winter Flight Fest forms part of Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris’ 45th Birthday Celebration.

Since launching commercial passenger balloon flights in 1981, the company has introduced hundreds of thousands of guests to the wonder of lighter-than-air flight. Over the years, the organisation has helped shape ballooning in South Africa while maintaining an unwavering commitment to safety, professionalism and exceptional guest experiences.

This event provides an opportunity to celebrate not only the company’s history, but also the broader ballooning community that has supported and contributed to the growth of the sport over the decades.

A Community Built on Friendship

One of the defining characteristics of ballooning is the spirit of cooperation and friendship that exists between pilots, crew members and enthusiasts.

Unlike many competitive aviation disciplines, ballooning has always been built on teamwork. Pilots regularly assist one another, share knowledge and work together to ensure safe and enjoyable flying experiences.

The Winter Flight Fest aims to honour that tradition.

Whether participants are seasoned competition pilots, recreational balloonists, crew members or long-time friends of the industry, the weekend will provide an opportunity to reconnect, learn from one another and celebrate the remarkable community that makes ballooning so special.

Looking to the Skies

Visitors to the Magalies River Valley during the event may be treated to the spectacular sight of multiple hot air balloons launching and floating across the winter skies.

The sight of colourful balloons rising together at sunrise is one of aviation’s most beautiful experiences and a fitting tribute to 45 years of ballooning heritage.

As we celebrate this milestone year, we look forward to welcoming pilots, crew members and friends from near and far for a memorable weekend of flying, laughter and shared adventure.

After all, ballooning has never been just about the balloons.

It’s about the people.

Winter Flight Fest 2026

Dates: 19 to 21 June 2026
Location: Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris, Magalies River Valley, South Africa
Occasion: Celebrating 45 Years of Ballooning Excellence
Theme: Fly. Connect. Celebrate.

We look forward to seeing you in the skies.

Learn More About Ballooning

Visitors interested in the wider world of hot air ballooning and aviation can find additional information from the South African Civil Aviation Authority, the Balloon Federation of South Africa and South African Tourism.

South African Civil Aviation Authority: https://www.caa.co.za
Balloon Federation of South Africa: https://www.balloonfed.co.za
South African Tourism: https://www.southafrica.net

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

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Why the Adventure Awaits Winter Edition Celebrates 45 Years of Sunrise Stories

The Adventure Awaits Winter Edition 2026 from Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris celebrates 45 years of sunrise ballooning above the Magalies River Valley. This special digital publication explores winter ballooning, heritage stories, luxury experiences, family adventures, corporate travel inspiration, and exclusive Birthday Bash celebration offers.

This special Winter Edition captures the atmosphere, heritage, and timeless magic of hot air ballooning during one of the most spectacular seasons of the year. From crisp winter mornings and golden sunrise landscapes to heartfelt legacy stories honouring Bill and Mary Harrop, the publication offers readers an immersive look into the experience that has welcomed generations of guests since 1981.

Inside this edition, readers can explore:

• 45 Years of Sunrise Stories
• Why Winter Is Ballooning Season
• A Winter Morning at Bill Harrop’s
• The Boardroom Can Wait
• Three Generations, One Sunrise
• Winter Photography Above the Magalies
• Birthday Bash Celebration Offers
• Winter collaborations, news, and guest experiences

More than just a magazine, Adventure Awaits reflects the spirit of ballooning itself: calm mornings, unforgettable perspectives, and moments that stay with you long after landing.

Whether you’ve already flown with us or are still dreaming about your first sunrise safari, we invite you to sit back, warm up with a coffee, and enjoy the Winter 2026 edition.

Read the Winter Edition Here:

Adventure Awaits Winter Edition: A Celebration of Winter Ballooning

The Adventure Awaits Winter Edition offers readers an immersive look into the atmosphere, heritage, and timeless beauty of hot air ballooning during winter in the Magalies River Valley. From emotional legacy stories and winter photography to luxury experiences and Birthday Bash celebrations, this edition reflects the spirit of sunrise ballooning that has defined Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris for over four decades.

Find out more here:

Activityhub.co.za

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Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris
The Original Sunrise Experience Since 1981

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

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