The spirit of Australian aviation with the Powerhouse

Join Powerhouse volunteers to celebrate World Aviation Day and discover the remarkable stories and achievements that have shaped aviation in Australia.

Learn about Lawrence Hargrave’s early box kite experiments, which sparked global interest in flight, and Sir Charles Kingsford Smith’s daring trans-Pacific flights in the legendary Lady Southern Cross. Be inspired by the courage of aviators like Lores Bonney, who defied expectations with her solo flight from Australia to England and the technical innovations that made such feats possible.

Powerhouse speakers will explore unique artifacts from its collection, including Hargrave’s iconic box kite, Lores Bonney’s aviator cap and goggles, PG Taylor’s famed Catalina Flying Boat and Dick Smith’s world-travelling helicopter. Each object tells a story of adventure, resilience and the unbreakable spirit that defines Australian aviation.

Stick around at the end of the talk to get hands on with resources provided by Powerhouse from our aviation history.

Image: B1495 Aircraft, flying boat, Catalina, PB2B-2, ‘Frigate Bird II, Vh-ASA, Gift of Sit Patrick Gordon Taylor GC MC, 1962. Photograph Jonathan Stokkland.