MATTHEW Scaife from NSW has retained his National Ballooning Championships title.
He was closely followed by his wife Nicola Scaife and Peter Wright from Victoria in third place.
All three pilots have now secured places in the International Championships in Saga, Japan next year.
Northam provided perfect conditions for the championships over the past week with ideal and sometimes challenging flying weather and spectacular views from the air.
Hot air pilots from around the world, including China, Japan, the UK, Hong Kong and around Australia contested the championships, held in Northam for the first time since 1984.
Officials set 23 individual tasks that made up the championship and points were scored for each, based on accuracy.
The 40 kilometre course location changed depending on weather conditions. Australian Ballooning Federation secretary Martin Tregale said Northam put on a great show.
“It’s been one of the best championships I think we’ve had in recent times,” he said.
“I think everyone’s had a great week.
"It’s been a fantastic event - great weather, great organisers.
"Thanks to the people of Northam for being great hosts.”
Northam Aero Club hosted the 2015 National Ballooning Championships and club president Errol Croft agreed the week had been a huge success.
“It’s been fantastic. We’ve had magnificent crowds and perfect weather. All the pilots have really enjoyed it,” Croft said.
Despite the early starts, large numbers of spectators were out before dawn each day to learn of the launch and landing locations and position themselves to view the stunning spectacle the balloons presented.
