Making a Splash in Melbourne!

So did James (aka Birdman!) manage to fly across the River Yarra? Well not quite! But he did manage a magnificent leap of 7.5 metres which earned him huge cheers from thousands in the crowd! He also managed to make a big splash for charity - appearing in newspapers here and in Vietnam.

Rather angelic in his flowing, white gown; expanding lacy wings and Vietnamese hat; James added an aerodynamic, racy ruffle of "Big Red Bird Feathers" just days before the event. Sam had designed James' costume in the UK and last week James visited Sam's class at school where he presented to about 90 Grade 3's on the various technical benefits of his outfit - including the magic red feathers!

It was nearly 40 degrees on Saturday and the long awaited Birdman Competiton started at noon in the baking heat of the midday sun! Not that this dampened anyone's enthusiasm, everyone was in high spirits - even James who had to be there at 6.30 am to double check that his"craft" met health and safety regulations!

A purple spaceship took off first (twirling only about 5 metres)and James was third to leap from the mighty green platform. As he prepared himself, a pre-recorded interview was shown to the crowd on an enormous video screen on the river bank. James managed to speak at length about the LifeStart Foundation and the fabulous work of Karen Leonard in Vietnam. Then it was time for take off!!

James crouched down low, then dramatically spread his wings and hurtled at top speed straight over the edge of the platform! He leapt into the air, appeared to hover for a moment ....(honest!) and then crashed spectacularly into the water below! The crowds loved it!!! They cheered madly and voted "Beauty" with their boards! Even the commentator was impressed exclaiming that it had "been many years since he had seen a bellywhack like that!"

Thanks to everyone who sponsored James and helped us raise money for LifeStart. Karen left yesterday for Hoi An and I'm sure she'll put that money to the best possible use.

Thanks also to Helena and Kathleen for the photos - have a look below and if you like them - leave us a message!

Hoping all's well with you,

with love from Rachel, Birdman, Jake, Helena & Sam XXXXX

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