By KATH GANNAWAY
IT’S 25 years since Healesville Sanctuary first wowed crowds with the ‘Birds of Prey’ presentation.
The wow-factor continues with the ‘Spirits of the Sky’ presentation twice a day, but up until now, it’s been the birds that have had all the fun of an exclusive bird’s-eye view of the Sanctuary.
To celebrate the anniversary the Sanctuary is giving anyone who has ever wanted to fly like a bird a chance to harness up and enjoy the exhilaration of flying … and that view.
For the last two weeks of the school holidays they have erected a full-scale circus trapeze rig and invited the unflappable Fly Factory trapeze team to help visitors of all ages to soar to new heights.
Keepers, Veronica Peric and Olivia Soderman, donned wings and a safety harness to experience the human-variety high-flying act.
They came through with flying colours, scoring an “A” for Awesome from Fly Factory owner and trapeze instructor, Steen Shoar, after nailing several successful catches and impressive landings.
“It’s an amazing mental exercise and challenge, not only for kids, but for adults, to get off the ground and do something that’s totally out of their depth,” Steen said.
“When families do it together, it’s amazing.
“It’s the kids who push the parents … ‘You can do it mum’, and it’s just great to watch.”
The trapeze rig will be up and flying from 14 January through to Australia Day, 26 January, and the cost is $10 for a 15-minute session.
It’s a great way to finish the school holidays on a high as part of a visit to the Sanctuary.
Book ahead on 5957 2818, or ask at the ticket box on entry.
