The much-anticipated Benalla Air show drew huge crowds to the Rose City, and none left disappointed.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
The day kicked off at sunrise with a free Hot Air Balloon display, which many saw as the highlight with their bright colours contrasting an amazing Benalla sunrise.
Benalla Airport was full of fun displays for the whole family as well as an array of food and drink vans complemented by market stalls and fairground attractions.
But it was what was going on in the skies above the airport that had most in awe.
Gliding Club member Bruce Cowan, one of the event organisers, said the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
“We estimate we had around 2500 attend,” Mr Cowan said.
"We asked people as they were leaving what they thought and the response was overwhelming.
“Everyone said they had a great time.”
Mr Cowan said the highlight for him was finally seeing it all come together.
“Seeing the people enjoying themselves was amazing.
“It was really good to be able to put on an event of that calibre in Benalla.
“From the Gliding Club’s point of view, it was our gift to Benalla for all the years the city has embraced the Gliding Club (of Victoria).
"And it was great to see it was so well received.“
Mr Cowan said he hoped this would be the first of many Benalla Air Shows, but there were lots of stakeholders and they would need to sit down and discuss if that was a possibility.
“It was great to have such a clear day,” he said.
“We know some people chose not to attend as it was so hot, but when you put on an outdoor event the weather will always play a part.”
The Ensign’s Simon Ruppert and Issie Hill, and regular contributor Rene Martens were in attendence and snapped these amazing photos.
Editor