SAFA Skysailor Magazine

30 SKY SAILOR June-July-August | WINTER 2025 The Paragliding State of Origin has become a beloved Easter tradition, drawing pilots each year to Mt Borah, Manilla. Since its inception in 1996, the competition has been a SAFA C-sanctioned event and offers a fantastic opportunity for Novice (PG2/3) pilots to ease into competitive flying and experience cross-country (XC) paragliding in a fun, safe environment. Three teams take part in the event: Queensland and New South Wales are the traditional rivals, while the Barbarians team brings together international pilots and participants from other states. With its light-hearted, yet spirited team rivalry, the State of Origin provides a supportive space for pilots to grow their thermalling skills and confidence. Paragliding State of Origin 2025 by Peter Beamish, Paragliding State of Origin Competition Director & President, Newcastle Paragliding Club