“It’s not necessarily about adrenaline — it’s about achievement, and the peace and quiet up there,” says the appropriately named Curtis Bird as I admire his second-hand paramotor at ANZAC park.

For years Curtis has jumped from planes as a self-taught solo skydiver, but now he’s traded in his gear for a different sport that will take him to new heights: paramotoring.

Paramotoring, a thrilling aviation activity, involves a propeller being strapped to the back of a pilot and manoeuvring it with the help of a small engine. Curtis can’t wait to get up in the air, but right now he’s replacing parts and focussing on making it look its best.

“The previous owners weren't too concerned about the aesthetic aspect of it, but I am – I figured it’s time for a bit of beautification,” Curtis said with a laugh.

Fortunately for him, he’s managed to learn how to take care of the maintenance himself.

“It’s not exclusively do-it-yourself, but it’s been handy to know.”

Paramotoring is accessible, and surprisingly safe, Curtis says, you just need to have a bit of disposable income to get started, whether you purchase your own gear or explore a course. 

“It’s actually regarded as one of the safest forms of recreational aviation, so you don’t actually have to be a nutcase to get up there.”

Joining him on future flights will be his partner and, later on down the track, his young daughter.

As a father, Curtis wants his daughter to have the opportunity to experience the thrill of more exciting sports. By introducing her to paramotoring at a young age, Curtis hopes he can foster her lifelong, adventurous spirit.

“She’s an extreme kid – as far as one-year-olds go,” he says with a laugh.

With his refurbished paramotor, Curtis is ready to take to the skies, and embark on a new set of adventures.