Mildura snares 1994 balloon titles

Originally published July 4, 1994

A MASSIVE crowd estimated at 10,000 watched Mildura International Balloon Fiesta’s night glow at the Ornamental Lakes.

Traffic was jammed at the intersection of Seventh Street and Madden Avenue as night fell and people streamed into Mildura’s riverfront for a vantage point.

Children and adults watched on in delight as 22 colorful hot air balloons lit up the night sky, with television personality Glenn Ridge the master of ceremonies.

The fiesta incorporates the ninth Australian Titles and the Mildura Pan Pacific Balloon Championship series.

Ballooning delegates from across the world had voted in favor of Mildura to host the prestigious international event when they met at their international conference in Germany.

Sunraysia’s bid defeated a last minute American challenge.

More than 70 balloons took part in the Mildura event with the lead up event attracting 40 competitors from Australia, Japan, France, United States and New Zealand.

Mildura had beaten Benalla as Australia’s nominated site for the titles and organisers believed the bid swayed a Japanese consortium to withdraw its own submission and back the Australians.