nudie 16th World Hot Air Balloon Championship
For eight days in June 2004, the world came to Mildura to witness the spectacular entertainment of 100 hot air balloons filling the skies above the mighty Murray River. Never previously held in the Southern Hemisphere, the prestigious
World Hot Air Balloon Championship was secured by the Victorian Government, the Mildura International Balloon Fiesta and the Australian Ballooning Federation. Competitors from 32 countries participated, representing 87 balloon teams. With attendance in excess of 60,000 people, the event generated substantial tourism and economic benefits for Mildura and Victoria. The event was supported by a week long festival incorporating tourist activities, a food and wine festival, concerts and live music, cultural programs and children’s activities.
