The Kookaburra has been grounded for many years and balloon enthusiast Jan Kerr is happy to see the balloon back in the sky.

“Lack of funding could not support the insurance and up-keeping costs needed to keep it in the air. We had offers from John Wallington and Ewan Roberts from Balloon Aloft in Canberra to cover the insurance for 12 months for which we are very grateful,” Mrs Kerr said.

Acording to Mrs Kerr the up-keep of the balloon is around $2,000 a year.

“Insurance this year was $1,605 and without this the balloon would still be grounded. We are very thankful and glad the Kookaburra is able to fly for the next 12 months.”

In celebration of the Kookaburra flying again the Golden Stiletto Race has come to life.

“The last time The Golden Stiletto Race was held was in 1991. This is a great event where we can bring fun ballooning back.”

Mrs Kerr said The Golden Stiletto Race, which is a balloon and bike race, should attract between 10 and 12 balloons from over NSW and Victoria.

The race is set to start on Saturday at 6:30am, weather permitting.

“The balloons will travel between three and four kilometers before landing. Then cyclists will pedal back to the showground to the finishing line.”

Mrs Kerr would like to see the community get behind the Kookaburra and ballooning to ensure it stays aflight

“Without sponsorship or donations the Kookaburra will return to the mothballs only to disintegrate into nothing,” Mrs Kerr said.