QLD: Human cannonball says death defying stunt no illusion

AAP General News (Australia)
08-04-1999
QLD: Human cannonball says death defying stunt no illusion

By Ainsley Pavey

BRISBANE, Aug 4 AAP - "There is nothing to describe being shot out of a cannon at 120kmh
into a net a few metres away in less than two seconds - it's just an awesome sight to see."

So says 24-year-old human cannonball Michael Vandeleur, a star attraction at this year's
Royal Brisbane Show, the Ekka.

The young daredevil and his retired father, Tom, have journeyed from their South Australian
home to Brisbane again this year after debuting at the Ekka a year ago.

In 10 years' of performing, there have been more thrills than spills in the show, which was
borrowed from America.

Michael, Australia's only human cannonball, has even missed the net once.

He was sent spinning, arms and legs flailing, into the dirt just short of the net in one of
their early shows, but blacked out before landing.

Since the mishap, the act has been seen by thousands of show-goers across Australia.

Mystery still surrounds how the cannon works, though, and critics have even accused the men
of cheating.

"Some people say its a visual illusion, but it's no illusion, it's real," Tom said.

"There is 400 tonnes of pressure propelling Michael out of the cannon.

"He has to wear a protective suit because if he hits the steel sides on the way out it
would just peel off his skin.

"No, we don't carry around any rosary beads.

"I guess you could say we're Catholics, though."

The human cannonball has already performed in Adelaide, Perth and Sydney this year.

He will perform daily at the Ekka from opening day tomorrow.

Another act designed to shock will include the Gold Coast-based Flying Lotah Aquaworld,
where one performer will attempt Houdini-type feats after being chained up in a chest under
water.

The 10-day event will also feature a drama-packed ring ceremony on Friday night, when
Queensland Governor Major General Peter Arnison opens the event.

Two of the world's most significant fossil finds from Richmond in north-western Queensland
will be on display.

Competitors in a sand sculpture competition will vie for the Best Sand Sculpture title.

And Pigs named after the Spice Girls and The Simpsons will battle for first in the annual
pig races.

AAP ap/pwa

KEYWORD: EKKA CANNONBALL

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