Exploring Tasmania by air meant facing my biggest fear, and loving it
As I watched the pilot take the doors off the red four-door helicopter on a crisp, clear May morning in Tasmania, a part of me still didn't believe I would be getting in — let alone flying in — the embodiment of one of my greatest fears.
'An aircon will cost you $40,000, or you can just take the doors off,' pilot Greg Ross joked.
Greg and his wife Gabby live in the idyllic Friendly Beaches within the Freycinet National Park on the island state's east coast.
I'm welcomed to their home by their teenage son and a big, friendly golden retriever named Dash.
Warmed by a wood fire burner, the cabin is dotted with family photos and a telescope perfect for star-gazing in the dark skies that are typical of Tasmania.
The home also serves as the headquarters of their family-operated aviation company, Freycinet Air Tasmania.
After introductions, Greg excitedly discusses the upcoming 25-minute doors-off experience while I try to distract myself from the pit forming in my stomach.
The moment I change my mind and agree to brave my fears was not due to a burst of adrenalin or even FOMO.
It was the quiet confidence of Gabby in her husband's 25 years of experience, his abilities as a pilot, and in her surety in him to bring us home safely.
It was also thanks to how comfortable and calm I felt in their space.
Heart racing, I donned a beanie to brace against the wind and buckled up for what was to become one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life.
We gained altitude, heading out over the turquoise waters of Wineglass Bay, the dramatic pink granite peaks of The Hazards coming into view, before following long stretches of pristine white beaches more common on the Gold Coast.
Escaping the summer crowds and opting instead for the 'clear, crisp skies' of the cooler months makes for some of the best flying experiences, according to Greg.
'The lower sun makes it feel like a sunrise or sunset throughout the whole day. The reflections on the pink granite showcase the best colours during this time of year,' he said.
After turning around and heading back towards home, Greg spots a whale in the water.
Although it takes us over our 25-minute time limit, he doesn't want us to miss the moment and slowly circles to give us the best view of one of the world's largest mammals making its way north on migration.
Tourism Tasmania's CEO Sarah Clark said Australia's most southerly state is no ordinary place. And Tasmanians are no ordinary people.
I couldn't help but agree, and heading down to the Apple Isle during the traditionally quieter travel periods between May and August is when the region truly comes alive.
Back on solid ground, Greg and Gabby wave me off as I leave, setting off on a high to enjoy a well-deserved tasting at Waubs Harbour Whisky in Bicheno.
'Did that really just happen?' I thought as I swipe through photos on my phone, unable to wipe the smile off my face.
I call my family to crow over my victory, my face flush with excitement — or maybe whisky.
Tasmania in the off-season
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, enjoy a full-bodied wine or a freshly shucked Tasmanian oyster, it is as easy as stepping off the plane and breathing the air down here to become a winter convert.
What to do:
Walk a wombat at East Coast Nature world
Roast marshmallows on vines and learn how to shuck fresh oysters at Devil's Corner at Apslawn
Take to the skies for a doors-off experience with Freycinet Air Tasmania
What to eat and drink:
Whisky tasting at Waubs Harbour Whisky in Bicheno
Devour a famous lobster roll at the Lobster Shack
Lunch and wine tasting at Frogmore Creek Winery in Cambridge
Where to stay:
Spot the Aurora from the decks of your private cabin at the Piermont Retreat in Swansea.
Cozy up with incredible views at Freycinet Lodge in Coles Bay
Enjoy a touch of luxury at The Tasman Hotel in Hobart
The writer travelled to Tasmania as a guest of Tourism Tasmania.
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