Will They Flop or Will They Soar?
1 March 2017 at 4:00 pm
One of Victoria’s most enduring community events, the Moomba Festival is back in full swing this Labour Day long weekend, 10 to 13 March, with a chock-a-block program of free events for the entire family.
On the Sunday, the hilariously spectacular charity event, Birdman Rally – a long-held Moomba favourite – sees competitors attempt to fly over the Yarra River.
Aided by a nifty flying machine or simply super-hero bravado, courageous competitors don inventive homemade flying devices as they hurtle themselves over the iconic Melbourne river all in the name of charity.
A fundraising battle unlike any other, the rally sees participants compete as either Hawks or Penguins (Hawks have serious crafts while Penguins’ costumes are more for show), who are busily raising money for charity in the lead up to their leap.
The amount they raise contributes extra “length” to their total distance, so even if a Penguin flops they can still take out the Charity Jackpot. All competitors are awarded an additional metre for every $100 raised over the initial $500. Fundraising efforts are rewarded handsomely and usually determine the ultimate champion.
This year, 15 competitors are taking part in the Birdman Rally, raising money for a range of charities including: The Children’s Cancer Foundation, Youthlaw, Love Your Sister, Wallara, RSPCA, MS Australia and Movember. Meet the 2017 Birdmen to find out why they’re taking the honourable leap and donate to their cause: moomba.melbourne.vic.gov.au/birdman-rally.
Interested in taking part?
Whether you’d like to put your aviation engineering skills to the test or to do something a little crazy with your mates, the Birdman Rally is a fantastic opportunity raise funds for charity.
Drawing thousands of onlookers to the banks of the Yarra, as well as media coverage, the rally is also a great way to spread awareness about your chosen cause.
Thinking of taking part in the 2018 event? Express your interest with moomba@melbourne.vic.gov.au and you’ll be contacted when registrations open.
Birdman Rally
Sunday 12 March, 11:30am
Yarra River, Moomba Festival
#Moomba #LoveMelbourneLoveMoomba
