Long-distance paragliders launching from Manilla near Tamworth have been landing as far as Brewarrina Shire as dry spells across the west provide ideal conditions for the sport.
Hotter ground is creating rising warm air columns called thermals, which allow gliders to rise higher and stay airborne for longer.
One man flew 333 kilometres from Manilla’s Mount Borah on 16 February to land about 40 kilometres west of the town and claim the furthest voyage so far in the open category for the 2026 Australian XContest…