SAFA Skysailor Magazine

29 WINTER 2026 | June-July-August SKY SAILOR But make no mistake – this year’s State of Origin absolutely delivered. In 2024, pilots were calling it an all-time SoO with 100km+ flights logged every day. This year, pilots were treated to three straight days of massive flying, with 200km+ flights being cranked out in some of the best late-season conditions Manilla has delivered in years. By the end of the comp, 44 pilots had beaten their personal best (PB) distances, with 10 pilots doing it more than once, and one who did it every day of the comp. A Quick Disclaimer: State of Origin is our very own cross- country paragliding extravaganza: Part competition, part mentorship, and an annual reunion for flying communities from all around the country. Pilots compete in teams and crews representing the QLD Cane Toads, NSW Cockroaches, and World Barbarian Bugs, with points awarded based on distance flights over three competition days. But unlike more traditional racing comps, State of Origin has always been built around mentorship, progression, and getting newer XC pilots in the air and flying further alongside more experienced ones. Scoring is based on a handicap system, with Fun and Sport Class pilots getting 3 and 2-times their distance in points, respectively. Other classes include Ace (1x points), Tandem (2x points) and Crew Chiefs (1.25x points). Crews are made up of five pilots each with a mix of skill levels. The result is a slightly chaotic mix of XC flying, interstate rivalry, crowded retrieves, and increasingly exaggerated storytelling as the weekend progresses. Launching at the SoO