A sunrise hot air balloon ride is on many South Africans’ bucket lists.

Now, one lucky supporter of Norscot Manor could soon experience it, while helping preserve one of Fourways’ treasured heritage sites.

Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris has partnered with the Fourways Main Reef Rotary Club, as well as other sponsors, to donate the luxury prize package for a fundraising raffle in support of Norscot Manor.

Read more: Fourways Main Reef Rotary Club fundraiser turns art into hope for Norscot Manor

Jacquie Pastor, marketing liaison for Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris, said supporting the fundraiser was an easy decision for the company, which has spent 45 years creating unforgettable experiences for visitors from across the country and beyond.

“We are the first, original hot air balloon company in South Africa. Like a pair of old sneakers, if you pull us on, you’re going to feel the difference.

“A hot air balloon safari always starts at sunrise, because that’s the coolest and calmest time of the day. Seeing the sunrise from a hot air balloon is next-level special.”

The experience begins before take-off, with guests enjoying tea, coffee, and muffins, while watching the balloon being prepared for flight.

Pastor said visitors then spend about an hour drifting peacefully through the sky before celebrating their landing with a toast of bubbly and orange juice. The morning concludes with a full buffet breakfast back at the clubhouse and a certificate of bravery signed by the pilot.

Also read: Norscot Manor receives 5 000L JoJo tank amid ongoing water cuts

Pastor said the company is proud to contribute the experience as part of a raffle prize aimed at raising funds for Norscot Manor.

The prize package also includes contributions from the Indaba Hotel and Harties Harbour, giving the winner the chance to enjoy a memorable getaway while supporting a worthwhile cause. “There are only 300 raffle tickets available at R100 each. It’s a once-off opportunity to get those tickets, and then you’re in the draw to win this amazing prize.

“We have always been passionate about getting involved with sustainability issues. This is where the community is, and we are in partnership with Rotary and the community, fundraising for this heritage site and letting people enjoy Art in the Park.”

Although the company is based just outside Hartbeespoort, Pastor said it still shares strong ties with Fourways.

“Harties is only an hour away from here. People who live in Fourways know you can drive for an hour and still be in traffic. We have a lot less traffic out our side.

We’ve always had a good connection with Fourways, so it’s lovely to be back and support a cause that means so much to the community.”

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