Stephen Tompkinson's Australian Balloon Adventure Season 1

Season 1

Air date: 2010-08-15

Episodes: 3

Episodes

E1: Part 1

Having previously journeyed across Africa in a hot-air balloon, the actor now explores the diverse landscape and wildlife of Australia and takes part in the country's largest balloon competition, the Canowindra Challenge. The trip kicks off in dramatic fashion when Stephen's maiden flight over South Australia's Flinders Ranges ends in a crash-landing. Undeterred, he and pilot Robin Bachelor press on to the Barossa Valley, where they learn wine-making techniques, before completing a flight over the River Murray.

Air date: 2010-08-15

E2: Part 2

The actor's bid to win Australia's largest balloon competition, the Canowindra Challenge, continues in Melbourne, where he fulfils a childhood dream by walking on to the pitch of the Melbourne Cricket Ground during an Aussie Rules game - and flying through the goalposts the next morning. An invitation to join in the city's Greek festival nearly ends in a diplomatic incident, and heavy rain then prevents Stephen flying over Canberra, forcing him to adopt desperate measures to get his training back on track.

Air date: 2010-08-22

E3: Part 3

The actor takes part in a mock balloon competition, then heads for Sydney, where he helps judge a drag contest and explores the city's cosmopolitan cuisine. He receives backing from Britain's High Commissioner Valerie Amos in her office overlooking the harbour - and hears a surprising confession from his co-pilot Robin - before heading 200 miles west to take on Australia's best balloon pilots in the skies above Canowindra. Last in the series.

Air date: 2010-08-29