Skydiving for kids near Brisbane is a thing. I know what you are thinking and it is definitely not for everyone, but if it might be for you, then keep reading!
Imagine you are being flown in a small plane, 14,000 feet above sea level. The plane door opens, and you’re sitting at the opening with your legs dangling over the edge. Your tandem skydive instructor, who you met at the airport an hour ago, is pressed against you and is counting down the seconds until jump time. You turn and take one more look at your children, who are waiting for their turn behind you, and then you take the plunge and begin hurtling towards the ground. After the rush of the freefall, the parachute opens and carries you serenely to the beach below. Behind you drop your children, experiencing what it must feel like to fly like a bird…
Whether this scenario terrifies or enthrals you, it is real! Several operators around Brisbane offer tandem skydiving to thrill-seeking kids and their families.
Skydiving for kids near Brisbane
Believe it or not, children regularly participate in tandem skydiving jumps, with or without their parents accompanying them. We asked Tibor Glesk, Chief Instructor of Sunshine Coast Skydivers, to tell us everything you need to know about skydiving with kids.
What are the legal age requirements for skydiving?
Many parents assume that skydiving is an activity restricted to persons aged 18 and over. But actually children 16 years and over are legally allowed to skydive, providing they have their parents’ written consent.
“A lot of the kids have been on the beach and have seen our parachutes coming in for landing and have then been absolutely obsessed from that point on,” Tibor explains. “Some parents have reported being hounded for years by their child to take the plunge!”
Is skydiving for children safe?
According to Tibor, kids are generally far less fearful than adults of skydiving.
“Most of the kids who have had a long time desire to experience parachuting are very brave,” he said. “They come in super excited and smiling and act like they’re about to go for a walk in the park. It’s their parents whose palms are sweating!”
“Some of the kids who have participated in group or challenge skydives have been openly afraid and have asked a lot of questions. By explaining the process and assuring them of the safety procedures, the expertise and experience of our staff and also that a reserve chute is packed they feel a whole lot better.”
So what are the safety procedures? Tibor explains: “We run in strict accordance with the Australian Parachute Federation (APF) and have an excellent safety record,” he said.
“All of our instructors are qualified with APF and undergo regular medicals and training set out by our governing bodies.
“The pilots we have on board all hold commercial pilot licenses and have jump pilot authorisation through the APF and have extensive local knowledge. Our planes are maintained and serviced regularly in compliance with CASA and the APF.
“All our equipment is modern and maintained by qualified people. The ‘reserve chute’ is checked and repacked every six months by a specially certified packer. There is also an ‘automatic computer activation device’ which will open the parachute in the unlikely event that the instructor is unable to.”
What are the benefits of skydiving for children?
Tibor describes sky diving as an amazing self confidence booster for young and old.
“When humans face a fear and live to tell the story, they feel exhilarated and empowered; they feel like they can take on the world. Skydiving is an experience that benefits all that do it, and the earlier you do it in life, the better,” he enthuses.
“Plus it gives you a new perspective on life and a heightened appreciation for the beauty of the world around you.”
Skydiving for kids near Brisbane
If you’re convinced, there are a number of operators near Brisbane offering tandem skydiving for children aged 16 years and over with parental consent.
Sunshine Coast Skydivers
Planes depart from Caloundra airport and jumpers land on one of Caloundra’s beautiful beaches, depending on wind conditions. For more pricing information, or to book a jump, visit the Sunshine Coast Skydivers website.
Skydive Ramblers
At Skydive Ramblers children as young as 16 years of age can enjoy a tandem skydive. The designated drop zone in Toogoolawah, with resort-like facilities, is family-friendly. Children can ride bikes, play on the swings, swim in the pool, or just watch the parachutes overhead. More information can be found on the Skydive Ramblers website.
Ripcord Skydivers
Crowley Vale is approximately 50 minutes west of Brisbane by car and is home to Ripcord Skydivers. This operator offers an alternative to a beach landing, for those who would prefer to skydive over land, not water!
Skydive Australia (Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast)
To gain a bird’s eye view of the stunning coastline, take the leap with Skydive Australia. With two seperate locations (Surfers Paradise and Noosa) divers can land on the beach with a variety of media packages available to capture the amazing experience. For information visit the Skydive Australia website.
Gold Coast Skydive
Take in the Gold Coast skyline and beaches as you freefall to the Kirra Beach drop zone when you skydive with this family owned and operated business. Check out the Gold Coast Skydive website for all the details.
Other Skydiving Activities
iFly – Indoor Skydiving at Brisbane (Chermside) and the Gold Coast
Kids can now experience the thrill of indoor skydiving at a specially designed simulator with a massive wind generator that lifts you effortlessly on a cushion of air. Children from three years of age can have a go with their parent’s permission. Bookings, prices and package options can be found on the iFly website.
Another thrill-seeking activity that children as young as four can participate in is hot air ballooning. Click here to read our article about hot air ballooning for kids near Brisbane. We hope you enjoyed this resource about skydiving for kids!
Join the conversation