SAFA Skysailor Magazine

35 WINTER 2026 | June-July-August SKY SAILOR A classic and a new tradition Of course, no SoO would be complete without the classic Manilla bonfire. This year’s pile was admittedly a little smaller than last year’s (which, in my opinion, resembled something closer to a controlled petrol bomb), but it was beautifully decorated with palm fronds woven through the stacked logs. As the fire settled into glowing coals, a handful of fire spinners emerged, and the party eventually migrated toward the Karl Shack. Still relatively new in the grand history of SoO, the Karl Shack Party has rapidly evolved into a proper SoO institution. Party outfits were available for anyone willing to commit, elevated dance platforms, surround sound, free-flowing cocktails, and this year’s centrepiece: a giant eagle, constructed from palm fronds and branches, mounted high above the dance floor watching over the chaos below with glowing eyes. At this party, there are no Cane Toads, Cockroaches or Barbarians. Just a com- munity of pilots, drivers, organisers and friends celebrating an incredible weekend. The music rolled on into the night and eventually gave way to sunrise. An orange overcast sky peeked over the end of the paddocks. Nothing like the classic, spec- tacular sunsets from West Launch, rather a quiet and poetic end to the weekend. A moment to pause, take in the beauty, and feel very lucky to have been part of it. State of Origin has always been about more than just scores or trophies. It captures progression, mentorship, com- munity, reconnecting with old friends, meeting new ones, and spending a few days completely immersed in the beautiful world that is free flight. To anyone who’s reading: Get involved! Whether you’re a brand new pilot, an experienced XC gun, a retrieve driver, organiser, or just someone curious about coming along – don’t be put off by the scale of SoO. Behind all the interstate rivalry, big flights and leaderboard action is an incredibly welcoming community. Huge congratulations to the World Barbarian Bugs on a very well-earned win, and a massive thank you to the organisers, retrieve drivers, volunteers, and everyone else who helped make this year’s State of Origin happen. See you all next year! Coralie Werbrouck and Lukasz Gryzb Gathering at the classic bonfire The winning Barbarian Bugs team