HONOURING AVIATION PIONEERS

LAWRENCE HARGRAVE and

SIR CHARLES KINGSFORD- SMITH

1030 AM UPSTAIRS IN AAHOF AREA SAT 11 JUL 2026

PRESENTERS:- Professor Michael HOUGH AM RFD ED Patron Lawrence Hargrave Society, Mr Richard WEBB Model Builder LHS Box Kites

The NSW South Coast is closely identified with two outstanding Australians who were early pioneers of powered flight. Lawrence Hargrave demonstrated the principles of the aerofoil wing through his kite flying experiments at Stanwell Park Beach, and he also developed a working model of the rotary engine for aviation

Sir Charles Kingsford- Smith used his famous Fokker trimotor “Southern Cross”, to fly the first successful Tasman Crossing, departing from Gerroa Beach after initial engine troubles

This presentation will use AV illustrations to explain the significance of both pioneers. It will explain the work of Lawrence Hargrave and the work of the Lawrence Hargrave society in preserving his memory, show examples of his box kites and explain the current projects it is undertaking to preserve the memory of this famous early aviation pioneer, including proposing that the domestic terminal of the new Western Sydney Airport be named the Lawrence Hargrave terminal

The presentation will also provide a short official movie of the work of Anthony Fokker and the achievements of Sir Charles Kingsford Smith in the “Southern Cross” trimotor Audience members will also be able to inspect the full-size flying replica of Sir Charles Kingsford Smith’s Fokker tri-motor aircraft “Southern Cross” and a flying de Havilland Tiger Moth trainer which was built at Bankstown- both located in HARS Hangar 3.

 The presentation will commence at 10:30, and it will conclude by approx. 12:00.

As it is also the Monthly HARS Tarmac day with scheduled flying, tour participants can then stay on to enjoy the Hangar displays, and that special day’s program of events.

For further media information please contact Lawrence Hargrave Society Patron:- Prof Michael Hough on 0418 424 748. 

Email:- This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website :- https://www.lawrencehargrave.org