Jennie Pearce's Background and Early Ballooning Experiences
Jennie Pearce shares that she moved to the UK from Australia in 1988, lured by Richard Turnbull, and has been involved in ballooning since then.
She describes her rural upbringing in northern Victoria, Australia, and the differences between her hometown and Invergordon, Scotland.
Jennie recounts her first encounter with a balloon at the age of 13, which was piloted by Peter Vizard, one of the earliest Australian pilots.
Jennie's Introduction to Ballooning and Skydiving
Jennie explains how she met Richard Turnbull in Australia, where he was flown over to pilot an airship for the company she worked for, Balloons Aloft.
Jennie shares her initial ballooning experience, which included a double hop flight over the wineries of Rutherglen, Australia.
She describes her first skydiving and ballooning experiences, which occurred on the same weekend, and her subsequent decision to pursue both activities.
Jennie mentions her first skydiving instructor, Kay Lewis, and the memorable flights she had with her.
Jennie's Role in Ballooning and Her Preferences
Jennie discusses her preference for groundwork over flying, stating that she enjoys the logistical aspects of ballooning more than the actual flights.
She shares her experiences of working for Balloons Aloft, including mending balloons and crewing for flights.
Jennie talks about the challenges of dealing with different landowners and the importance of building good relationships with them.
She recounts a memorable retrieve in the UK where she found the balloon crew being kicked out of a pub at 11 PM.
Jennie's Experiences with Gas Balloons and Her Australian Connections
Jennie explains her limited experience with gas balloons, mainly involving gluing patches rather than sewing.
She shares a memorable flight in a gas balloon in Belgium, noting the unique experience of flying silently without the noise of a hot air balloon.
Jennie confirms that she still holds her Australian passport and visits Australia regularly, especially to see her 102-year-old father.
Jennie's Passion for Cooking and Family Dynamics
Jennie reveals her passion for cooking, which she pursues as the cook at an outdoor education centre in the UK.
She describes her role in organizing activities for children from London boroughs, including gorge walking, canoeing, and rock climbing.
Jennie shares her preference for sweet baking and barbecuing, and her reputation for hosting enjoyable barbecue dinners.
She talks about her family, including her older sister, who is now a carer for their father, and her niece, who is an outdoor education instructor.
Jennie's Reflections on Her Role and Future Plans
Jennie reflects on her preference for being in the background and supporting others, rather than taking the lead role.
She expresses her enjoyment of supporting others and her willingness to take on a lead role when necessary.
Jennifer D'Alton concludes the interview, expressing her delight in learning more about Jennie Pearce and hoping to see her at the British Balloon Museum and Library luncheon in October.
