When you float gently above the rolling hills and rivers of Ipswich, Scenic Rim, and Somerset, there’s one thing you’re guaranteed—your pilot knows these skies better than almost anyone else. That pilot is Graeme Day, Owner and Chief Pilot of Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights, and a man whose passion for ballooning has taken him from the mountain tops of Europe to the heart of South-East Queensland.
But how did it all begin?
A Chance Encounter in France
Graeme’s story began far from Australia—on a cold, blustery day in the Alsace region of France, where a random encounter during a backpacking trip introduced him to the world of hot air ballooning. That moment sparked a lifelong passion that would change the course of his life.
Fuelled by curiosity and a desire to learn, Graeme immersed himself in European ballooning. He even taught himself to read balloon manuals and weather reports in French, armed only with an English–French dictionary. His dedication paid off—he earned his commercial ballooning license in France, the birthplace of modern ballooning.
Flying High Across the Globe
Since those early days, Graeme has built an aviation career that spans more than 30 years and three continents. He has piloted balloons over:
- The snow-capped Alps of France, Switzerland and Italy
- The sweeping vineyards of France
- The Canadian countryside
- And now, for over two decades, the stunning skies of Queensland, Australia
Perhaps the most remarkable flight of them all? Graeme is the only Australian balloon pilot to have flown over Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak—a breathtaking adventure that required precise planning, nerves of steel, and a lifetime of flight experience.
Bringing the Magic Home to Queensland
In the mid 1990’s, after years of global travel and adventure, Graeme returned to Australia and set his sights on creating something personal and truly unique. Together with his wife Ruth, in 2001 he founded Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights in Ipswich, just 30 minutes west of Brisbane.
Over the past 24 years, Graeme has personally flown thousands of guests over the Greater Brisbane region, sharing his passion, local knowledge, and warm humour with every flight. Unlike large, commercial ballooning operations, Floating Images offers one boutique flight per day, with small group sizes and Graeme himself as your pilot—every time.
Experience That Takes You Higher
Graeme now holds over 3,400 flight hours, and more than three decades of commercial experience. But more than his resume, it’s his love of storytelling, attention to detail, and personal connection with guests that makes a flight with Floating Images unforgettable.
Whether he’s pointing out historic Ipswich landmarks, the geographical landscapes, explaining how wind currents work, or sharing tales from flying over the French Alps, Graeme makes every flight as enriching as it is serene.
Celebrate a Legacy in the Skies
Floating Images participated at a Queensland Country Tourism Education Seminar in Brisbane recently, “ very sunrise is more than just a view—it’s a legacy”. When you book a flight, you’re not just climbing into a basket; you’re stepping into Graeme Day’s lifelong dream, powered by decades of knowledge and an unshakable love of flight.
So the next time you look up and see a balloon drifting gently across the sky near Ipswich, know that the pilot waving from above has likely flown over Mont Blanc, speaks fluent French, and still loves nothing more than greeting the day from 2,000 feet in the air.
Come float with us. Let Graeme share the skies—and his story—with you.
What Guests Say
“Absolutely breathtaking! Graeme is so knowledgeable and funny—he even made me forget I was afraid of heights. 10/10 would float again.”
— Jess, Brisbane
“Best tour I’ve ever experienced in Brisbane! Beautiful sunrise, informative ride, and friendly staff. It’s a must do in Brisbane!”
— Winnie T, Brisbane
Experience, Storytelling, and Soul
With over 3,400 flight hours logged by 2025, Graeme’s knowledge of the region’s weather, history, and terrain is unparalleled. But it’s not just about flying—it’s about the stories, the connection, and the shared wonder of being up in the air.
“It was serene, magical, and Graeme made us feel like old friends from the moment we arrived. His stories about flying in Europe and here at home were fascinating.”
— Liam & Rachel, Toowoomba
“We booked to celebrate my 60th, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Graeme made us feel safe, informed, and completely enchanted. A memory for life.”
— Marie D., Ipswich
More Than Just a Flight
Graeme has flown thousands of guests, from couples celebrating anniversaries to families sharing once-in-a-lifetime moments. Each flight is quiet, peaceful, and profoundly memorable.
With small groups, one flight per day, and Graeme at the helm every time, this isn’t just a balloon ride—it’s a celebration of life from above.
“We recently went on a hot air balloon ride in Queensland, and it was one of the most magical experiences of my life! From start to finish, everything was seamless and professional. The early morning pick-up was right on time, and the staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. Watching the balloon inflate was mesmerizing — and once we were up in the air, the views were simply breathtaking.
Floating above the stunning countryside, with mist rising from the fields and kangaroos hopping below, felt surreal. The flight was incredibly smooth and peaceful, and our pilot gave interesting commentary about the landscape and history of the region.”
After landing, we were treated to a lovely champagne breakfast to top it all off. I can’t recommend this enough — it’s a must-do if you’re visiting Queensland!
Kudos to Graeme and team!!!
— Namita Singh
Ready to Float?
There’s something deeply magical about ballooning. It’s quiet. Peaceful. Awe-inspiring. And with Graeme at the helm, it’s also full of laughter, stories, and that unmistakable feeling that you’re in the right place at the right time.
Join us for a boutique, owner-operated flight with one of Australia’s most experienced balloon pilots.
Limited seats. One flight per day. A lifetime of stories to tell.
Want More?
Follow us on Instagram @FloatingImages for behind-the-scenes moments, sunrise skies, and Graeme doing his signature “Sky Pose” (you’ll know it when you see it).
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