Now I am not the biggest fan of heights, but with the anniversary just around the corner, Mr LML needs to be surprised and I know there is definitely one thing that is still sitting on the bucket list…
The morning begins with a secret drive in the car to an “undisclosed destination”. Lucky for me, Mr LML does shift work and already has a sleeping mask that doubles as a blindfold… the perfect touch. As I drive into Archerfield Airport and park the car, it is time for the big reveal. The blindfold comes off and Mr LML yells in surprise; “YOU’RE TAKING ME SKY DIVING?!”
A very excited Mr LML and I enter the Brisbane City Helicopters Office and are greeted by Henri. Following a quick debrief, we are escorted to the tarmac and run through the safety drill and loaded into the chopper.
The rotor blades whir into action and the R44 Raven II takes flight. Now I don’t know if the ‘red goes faster’ rule applies in this situation, but this thing can move! Once in the air, the ride is gentle and very scenic. Make sure you bring your camera because the views are definitely worth it.
As we approach the city, Henri provides a highly informative tour of all the major landmarks and Brisbane icons. The chopper follows the glistening Brisbane River, snaking around the city and allowing for some pretty memorable pics. We kick ourselves for only bringing the iPhone 5 and not a ‘real’ camera.
Hovering above the Story Bridge, I chuckle to myself as I imagine I am in the ‘traffic chopper’ checking out the traffic report. To the west, I can see Mt Cootha, Suncorp Stadium and the XXXX Factory, while to the east Mr LML points out the Brisbane Airport and hints of Morton Bay. We both agree we could stay up here for hours.
Flying back across the northern end of the city, we do what all good tourists do… “CAN WE SEE OUR HOUSE?!” Not only can we clearly see our house and yard, but also our other car sitting lonely in the street.
All good things must come to an end, and as we make our way back to the airport, the landing is a very smooth process. We are both amazed at how versatile these machines really are. Henri navigates around the airport with ease and returns the chopper to its exact point of departure.
If you are looking to wow your significant other, then getting air-born is definitely a good choice!
There are helicopter experiences all over OZ, try it for yourself.