Wind gust tore through Wangaratta balloon display, injuring two
ATSB investigation blamed missing meteorologist and failed restraints for the injuries.
April 11, the Wangaratta Turf Club hosted a balloon display. There were 21 static hot air balloons tethered down.
At 7.12pm, a sudden wind spike knocked several temporarily airborne. One balloon's restraint failed.
It dragged across the ground and deflated, injuring two patrons. One had minor injuries.
One was seriously injured. The ATSB found the event director had not involved a meteorologist.
Procedures required one. There was no pre-event weather briefing.
There was no active monitoring once the display began. The restraint likely lacked sufficient strength.
It should have been retired due to damage and age. No clear weather conditions were set to trigger display cancellation.
- April 11
- Incident date
- Wangaratta Turf Club
- Location
- 21
- Static balloons on display
- 7.12pm
- Wind spike time
Why it mattersEvent organisers must follow safety procedures for outdoor displays, even static balloon shows.
