NEWCASTLE SUNRISE BALLOON SPECTACLE

Early risers were treated to a sunrise spectacle in Newcastle this morning.

The Sea Shepherd balloon passed over the city, from Nobby’s to Gates Head, as part of a campaign to raise awareness about ocean conservation.

The balloon is touring Australia through Hunter-based company, Balloon Aloft.

The balloon pilots were chatting to surfers on the way passed, and performed a splash and dash with the basket, dipping it into the sea.