History was recreated at Point Cook today when a replica Bristol Boxkite re-enacted the first Australian military flight 100 years ago today.
Boxkite pilot, Steve Bekker, relived the exact moment when Lieutenant Eric Harrison flew a Bristol Boxkite on 1 March 1914.
Squadron Leader Bekker said he was honoured to be able to recreate the event that marked the birth of military aviation in Australia.
“In the early 1900s, Boxkites were the cutting edge of technology. The Boxkite’s use in training the first Australian military aviators reflects the foresight of the pioneers who saw the value and future of air power,” he said.
“During the historical flight the replica aircraft reached an altitude of around 50 feet and a speed of 55 kilometres per hour.”
The Boxkite replica is the culmination of several years work by a team of enthusiastic volunteers from the RAAF Museum. None of the original Bristol Boxkite aircraft that trained Australia’s airmen exist today. Significant time and research has gone into the project.
The Boxkite replica will be on display for the first time at the Centenary of Military Aviation Air Show today and tomorrow at the home of military aviation, RAAF Williams - Point Cook, Victoria.
Tickets for the spectacular event featuring static and flying displays by historic and contemporary aircraft are still available.
Media note:
Information on RAAF air shows can be found at www.airforce.gov.au/airshows
High Definition video compile and images of Bristol Boxkite flight are available at: http://images.defence.gov.au/S20140345 and http://myvio.tv/CMA14
Media contacts:
Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999
Regional Manager Victoria, Public Affairs, Kate Kennedy 0477 706 009
Issued by Ministerial and Executive Coordination and Communication,
Department of Defence,
Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999 Fax: 02 6265 6946
