As a writer, one element I endeavour to capture above all others is an unshakable sense of place; it's why I introduced the 'Destination' column as a new regular to Airnews Magazine. This was wonderful practice: a piece on shandies, shanties and, of course, women pilots.

I can feel my face turning a warm, visibly peachy colour as those uncomfortable, familiar prickles run up my neck, around my ears, even to the end of my nose. The little old lady is huddled over something on the bench with her back to me. I’ve been standing here for over a minute, and [...]

The first of a new, regular 'Destination' feature I introduced to Airnews Magazine in my early days as editor. I wanted to tell stories that made people feel as welcome and comfortable flying in to a new destination in Australia as I do, every time I sink into an Aussie aero club lounge. Welcome to Shepparton, Victoria.

The epic tale of Mia Fraser's first foray into competition hot air ballooning, pivoting from flying balloons in Victoria's Yarra Valley to competing in the Women's World Championships, in Poland, of all places. Showcasing stunning photography by Ain Raadik, this was one of my very first pieces for public distribution, and it featured in my very first issue of Airnews Magazine as editor. Phew! I say, "If you don't want to pitch, publish yourself..." hahaha

Although I was alone when Rus dropped me at the gondola at 9:15 am, I by no means ascended the summit of Mt Kuramatsu-dake by myself that day. Every single soul on the trail gave and received a greeting, even if they could only manage it whispered on a hard stretch of climb. I even [...]

Japan... blew my mind. We'd talked about it before. Oh, you know, it'd be cool to head for the pow, but I'm never too serious about booking my travel. I'm that girl who's all like... goddamn, I don't got the caaaash... You know that girl – yeah, well, that's me. I'm that shit one. Til [...]