Since there is a varied interest in competition flying among those registered for the Big Balloon Bash, we plan to run a competition that meets everyone's preferences. The event will feature:

• Casual Competition: Participants will be able to drop markers on a variety of fun/interesting target based tasks. 
• Full Competition: This will include the Casual Competition tasks and some additional tasks that use of the Balloon Live App.
• Fiesta Flying: For those who prefer no competition, except perhaps the Key Grab.

The competition flights will be flown from the Monday AM to the Friday AM (we plan to fly mornings and afternoons). Pilots can decide for each flight whether they will participate in all, some, or none of the tasks.

As this is a social event, we have no plans to split up the fiesta, competition and commercial balloons. Generally, all balloons will be launching together and flying in the same airspace. So please be courteous to those flying around you knowing that some will be competing and some will not.

The two competitions (Casual and Full) will be scored separately, and the Task Data Sheet will clearly indicate which tasks count towards each competition's score.

A Rule Book (see link below), based on the latest FAI AMXER 2024 Rule Book, has been prepared as a guideline for those undertaking all tasks. Although the event is not as formal as the Nationals, scoring and penalties will follow the rule book to ensure a safe and fair competition. This will also provide a good chance for those attending the World Championships later this year to learn the rules (I am always happy to help you with that).

Regarding the use of Balloon Live for the "Full Competition", the Balloon Live Sensors will NOT be mandatory. Pilots without a sensor can simply use the Balloon Live App with the device GPS. Scoring will be based on GPS altitude and the task setting will be adjusted to account for mobile device GPS inconsistencies.

A note for those pilots with a relatively low number of hours as PIC that might wish to try some competition tasks. We request that you consider only flying the Casual Competition. This will provide you with plenty of things to keep you occupied and entertained.

Further details will be shared during the General Briefing, however in the meantime, please contact me if you have any questions (via email or FB Messenger).

Looking forward to seeing you in all Mildura!

Andrew "Robbo" Robertson

A new digital OziExplorer map is now available in the Google Drive below. This is using the latest VicMap data (2022).

Google Drive -  Maps

Note: PZ files will be provided closer to the event in both Ozi and KLM formats.