30/08/2026
This week on SPOTLIGHT SUNDAY’s we introduce to you another one of our wonderful commercial pilots- Brian ✨
Brian’s ballooning journey began in 1994 as a ground crew member in the Yarra Valley.
Afraid of heights at the time, it took nearly a year before he took his first flight – but one perfect morning changed everything. To his surprise, the height didn’t bother him, and soon after, he began training to become a pilot.
With over 4,800 hours in the air and more than 70,000 passengers flown safely, Brian has flown across Australia, the Masai Mara in Kenya, and the ancient temples of Bagan in Myanmar – though he still considers the Yarra Valley one of the most spectacular places to fly.
He now flies more than 3,000 passengers a year, many of whom arrive a little nervous. Brian takes pride in helping people relax and enjoy the experience, sharing local insights, a few dad jokes, and ensuring everyone gets a first-class view.
When he’s not flying, Brian enjoys time with his two adult sons, exploring the bush in 4x4s or on motorbikes, fishing, travelling, or working on his rural property.
[Hot Air Balloon Yarra Valley, Australia, Victoria, Tourism Melbourne, Tourism Australia]