FAIRCHILD 24 IN AUSTRALIA

Last updated 17Juky 2023

A listing compiled by Geoff Goodall

This Fairchild formation near Mittagong NSW in April 1977 illustrates the different appearances of Fairchild 24 models:
Closest is F.24W Argus VH-ALF (Warner Scarab radial) while above is F.24R Ranger VH-ABZ (Fairchild Ranger in-line engine) Photo by Neville Parnell

USAAF Fairchild UC-61 in northern Australia during WWII, probably Charters Towers, Queensland

Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co at Hagerstown, Maryland introduced their Model 24 cabin touring aircraft in 1932. Production continued until 1948 by which time 2,232 had been built. The company name changed to Fairchild Airplane Manufacturing Corporation and later Fairchild Aircraft Corporation.

During World War II, the US Army Air Forces placed large orders for Fairchild 24s (designated UC-61 Forwarder) for military communications duties, powered by either Fairchild Ranger in-line engines or Warner Scarab radials. Many were ordered by Great Britain under Lend Lease for use by RAF and Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm: these were designated Fairchild Argus and were operated in Britain by the Air Transport Auxillary to ferry aircrew between bases and war theatres in Africa, Mediterranean, India, Burma and Ceylon. After WWII the military disposals UC-61s were popular as civilianised Fairchild Argus (Warner Scarab radial) and Fairchild Ranger (Fairchild Ranger 6 cylinder in-line engine).

A total of eighteen Fairchild 24s have been on the Australian Civil Aircraft Register. Six were imported prewar as new civil production models, the remainder, which arrived from 1950 onwards, were all civilianised ex military UC-61s. The six pre-WWII imports comprised the following models:

Model 24.C8E 145hp Warner Scarab 50 radial

Model 24G 145hp Warner Scarab 50 radial

Model 24K 165hp Fairchild Ranger 6.410.B1A in-line

Model 24R.9 165hp Fairchild Ranger 6.410B-2 in-line

Model 24R.40 175hp Fairchild Ranger 6.410.B3 in-line

Fairchilds in Australia

Fairchild Airplane Manufacturing Corporation established their own Australian sales office during 1937, at Victoria House, 83 Pitt Street, Sydney. First American agent based in Sydney was Jacob H. Barker Junior. He imported the first of the type, VH-UYH for the Newcastle Aero Club in July 1937 and accompanied well-known Australian pilot Captain P. G. Taylor on its delivery flight from Sydney to the club. Barker was also agent for Taylor Cubs but by 1938 he was replaced by Wallace Shrimpton, a New Zealander living in Australia. Shrimpton imported Ranger VH-ABZ as a demonstrator, VH-ACV for the Newcastle Aero Club and VH-ACW for Bonds Airways, Adelaide. By June 1939 Shrimpton had built up a Fairchild sales team of R.W.(Dick) Shiel and A.F.(“Buster”) Brown, both of whom soon enlisted in RAAF as instructors, and Brown was killed in a training crash on 22 January 1940. The Air Log magazine commented that the war situation dealt a blow to "The Three Musketeers", just when their sales prospects were promising. Wallace Shrimpton sailed from Sydney on his return to America.

During World War Two the Royal Australian Air Force was desperately short of light communications aircraft and impressed three civil Fairchilds. The planned impressment of a fourth VH-ACW was deferred when the Air Board learned that it was being flown on Army support work in South Australia, considered valuable to the war effort, and a fourth came as a gift from The Honorable Richard Casey, a career politician then stationed in Washington DC as Australia's first Ambassador to the United States, Casey offered his own private F24R VH-ADF which was shipped to Australia. With serials A36-1 to A36-4, the RAAF Fairchilds were flown mostly by No.1 Communications Flight (renamed Communications Unit) based in Melbourne, but prematurely retired during 1943 because of inability to source engine parts or replacement engines due to the war. Three were made available for early disposal to civil owners and rejoined the Register with their pre-war markings.

In 1950, dynamic sales and maintenance company Kingsford Smith Aviation Service Pty Ltd, Sydney, who were Australian agents for Auster aircraft and experienced import/exporters of light aircraft, negotiated a deal to import British civilianised F24W Argus through a British dealer. KSAS applied to DCA on 10 August 1950 for an Import Permit for 10 Fairchilds, which was approved two weeks later. Of these, five were shipped from England to Sydney for local resale by KSAS, followed by five more brought in by private owners, the last in 1960 by a syndicate of private pilots in Darwin.

22 years later, another Fairchild 24 appeared briefly on the Australian Register in 1982 when a visiting Model 24R Ranger G-BCBH was touring the country with its visiting Australian owner, now living in Britain. It was required by officialdom to take up local registry and became VH-AAQ for 14 months before being shipped back to England. Waiting in the wings has been an Argus N77648 imported from USA in 1990, undergoing long-term restoration at Camden NSW, later Archerfield Qld. It was finally Australian registered as VH-EFW in June 2022.

This listing is presented in order of appearance on the Australian Civil Aircraft Register:

1) PRE-WAR FAIRCHILD IMPORTS

Model 24.C8E c/n 2817 VH-AAW

6.6.36	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co. 145hp Warner Scarab 50 radial
.36	Registered NC16356 Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co
.36	Export CofA E-1975 issued to Fairchild for export to G.A.Watkins, Melbourne, Australia
7.36	Shipped to Australia as cargo on City of Manila
8.36	Assembled at Essendon Aerodrome, Melbourne
5.8.36	CAB Inspection Report at Essendon, assembly completed
5.8.36	Registration application: George A. Watkins, Melbourne Vic To be based at Essendon
7.8.36	Registered VH-AAW
7.8.36	Australian CofA issued
3.37	Now based at Mascot Aerodrome, Sydney
6.4.37	Change of ownership: Axel Sigurdsson Von Goes, Sydney NSW
19.8.37	CAB Inspection Report at Mascot. Total airframe time 186 hours
early 38	Shipped to England, the owner has moved from Australia to England
	Change of address: Axel S. Von Goes c/- deHavilland Technical School, Hatfield UK Based at Hatfield Aerodrome
26.3.38	Croydon Airport, London ATC report: VH-AAW took off and made an unauthorised turn, pilot Von Goes
5.38	VH-AAW struck a DH.87 Hornet Moth when taxying at Hatfield. Fairchild sustained damage to starboard wing and propeller, which was repaired by DH technical School.
29.6.38	CAB Memo: Van Goes has applied to register VH-AAW in Great Britain
9.38	Von Goes writes to CAB requesting that registration records for VH-AAW be urgently sent to the Ministry of Civil Aviation in England. The Fairchild is grounded waiting for British registration to be finalised
28.9.38	Struck-off Australian Register
4.10.38	Registered G-AFKW Axel S. Von Goes c/- deHavilland Technical School, Hatfield
11.38	Still correspondence between Von Goes, CAB and MCA regarding paperwork for VH-AAW
12.38	Owner's address now Axel S. Von Goes c/- Commercial Bank of Sydney, London
17.3.39	British CofA issued
15.5.39	Change of ownership: Jacob B. Cleyndist, London. Continued to be based at Hatfield
14.7.39	Change of ownership: Yorkshire Aeroplane Club Ltd, Leeds-Bradford Aerodrome, Leeds
16.3.40	CofA expired, not renewed due wartime restrictions on civil flying
14.10.40	Impressed by RAF as BK868
10.40	Allotted to RAF HQ 41 Group
4.12.40	Struck-off British Register as Impressed
	Note: US Registration NC16356 was not cancelled until 30.8.48 during a postwar clean-up of the US Civil Register

Mascot Aerodrome, Sydney in 1937. Neville Parnell collection

Mascot 1937. Frank Walters collection

Model 24G c/n 2965 VH-UYH, A36-3, VH-UYH

12.2.37	Australian Aircraft Import Licence ledger: Licence No.31 issued to Fairchild 24 for Newcastle Aero Club which was later allocated VH-UYH
17.3.37	CAB allocated registration VH-UYH to a Fairchild 24 being imported by Jacob H. Barker, Fairchild's Australian representative for the Newcastle Aero Club
5.37	Construction completed at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co. 145hp Warner Scarab 50 radial
25.5.37	First flight Hagerstown
5.37	Registered NC16896 Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co
5.37	Export CofA E-2745 issued to Fairchild for export to Newcastle Aero Club
	Shipped to Australia
7.37	Assembled at Mascot Aerodrome, Sydney
20.7.37	Testflown after assembly at Mascot by P. G. Taylor
21.7.37	Australian Registration application: Newcastle Aero Club, Broadmeadow airfield NSW
23.7.37	CAB Inspection Report at Mascot, assembly completed. Total airframe time: 2 hrs 12 mins
27.7.37	Delivered from Mascot to Newcastle Aero Club by P.G. Taylor and J.H. Barker. CAB approve its operation prior to formal registration and issue of CofA.
7.37	Magazine report of delivery to NAC "painted in the club's colours with red fuselage and silver wings." Photo of UYH on delivery shows dark colour fuselage with silver tailplane and cheat line.
5.8.37	Registered VH-UYH
5.8.37	Australian CofA issued
10.39	DCA file memo: Mr. Wallace Shrimpton, agent for Fairchild, has sold a new Fairchild 24R VH-ACV to the Newcastle Aero Club, who have traded VH-UYH to him. The transaction was completed on 18.4.39.
12.39	DCA file memo: VH-UYH still operated by the Newcasle Aero Club. It is to be shortly handed over to Shrimpton
11.1.40	CAB Inspection report at Newcastle. Engine is removed and is on extended overhaul. Total airframe time: 654 hours
4.4.40	CofA suspended by DCA due to NAC's refusal to carry out the work required for a mandatory engine modification due to their claim that the aircraft is owned by Mr. Wallace Shrimpton. The aircraft is still held by NAC without engine installed.
25.7.40	Testflown at Newcastle. Aircraft will remain with Newcastle Aero Club
25.7.40	CofA renewed by DCA.
24.7.41	CofA expired.
8.41	CofA renewal delayed due to the NAC workshop being under pressure on overhauls of RAAF aircraft
9.41	Dismantled at Newcastle awaiting inspection
24.4.42	Letter from Director General of Civil Aviation to Department of Air in reponse to enquiry concerning availability of civil aircraft which could be impressed for RAAF use by Western Command: "The following aircraft could reasonably be made available for use in communication flying in Western Australia" - list includes: "Fairchild 24G VH-UYH owned Newcastle Aero Club - C. of A. has lapsed, but little work needed to make airworthy"
31.7.42	CofA renewed at Newcastle
8.42	Impressed by RAAF as A36-3
23.8.42	Struck-off Register, impressed by RAAF
13.9.42	Taken on RAAF charge as A36-3. Received at 36 Squadron, Essendon ex Newcastle Aero Club
28.9.42	Sgt Bond of 36 Squadron contacted DCA with queries about the engine of A36-3
21.10.42	Forced landing at Goulburn NSW due weather. No damage. En route Essendon-Wagga-Mascot with a 450 pound piece of equipment for the Navy, pilot Allan Randall of 36 Sqn. Further details in the book "There and Back" by Allan Randall, page 27
22.10.42	Flew Goulburn-Mascot-Wagga, pilot Randall
23.10.42	Flew Wagga-Essendon, pilot Randall
28.12.42	Allotted Ansett Airways Essendon ex 36 Sqn for complete overhaul;
29.12.42	Held u/s at Ansett Airways
12.42	No.36 Squadron moved base from Essendon to Townsville, Queensland
29.1.43	Overhaul at Ansett Airways progressing
24.3.43	Received 36 Sqn Townsville ex Ansett Airways
24.7.43	Damaged in forced landing due engine failure
29.7.43	Received No.12 Repair & Salvage Unit, Macrossan Qld ex 36 Sqn for repair
24.8.43	Received 36 Sqn ex 12RSU
24.8.43	Issued to No.1 Communications Flight, Essendon ex 36 Sqn.
8.43	Ferried to 1CF by 36 Sqn pilot A. Randall. He collected the aircraft at 12RSU Macrossan near Charters Towers, flew to Townsville via a forced landing at Reid River strip due low oil pressure. Next day: Townsville-Bowen-Mackay-Rockhampton Next day: Rockhampton-Wowan (to drop a passenger)-Bundaberg. Next day: Bundaberg-Maryborough-Archerfield. Left at Archerfield due continuing engine troubles. RAAF Status card entry: 26.8.43: Aircraft enroute Townsville to Essendon. Grounded Archerfield, condition of motor and behaviour renders aircraft unsafe for further flying.
13.9.43	Received 4CF Archerfield ex 36 Sqn, to be held pending completion of repairs
28.9.43	Air Board internal minute: "Re No.1 Communications Unit: It is recommended that three Fairchild aircraft now held by this Unit should be disposed of owing to the lack of replacement engines."
11.4.44	Allotted 3 Central Recovery Depot, Amberley Qld for report and storage
3.5.44	Collected by 3CRD transport section. Received 3CRD.
27.5.44	RAAF inspection report: A31-3 at 3CRD: airframe good condition, no engine. Total airframe time 996 hrs 15 mins. Had been overhaulled by Ansett Airways at 930 hours when the mainplane and tail were re-covered.
14.7.44	RAAF advises DCA that they are making the following available for disposal. "These communications type aircraft are surplus to requirements." Fairchild A36-1 no engine Fairchild A36-2 no engine Fairchild A36-3 Scarab engine u/s Waco A45-1 Jacobs engine u/s Beech 17 A39-3 no engine
12.44	Newcastle Aero Club wrote to DCA enquiring about fitting a different model of Warner Super Scarab engine to VH-UYH
2.45	A36-1. A36-2 and A36-3 included in first Tender document issued by the newly formed Commonwealth Disposals Commission: closing date for tenders 20.2.45
9.3.45	Commonwealth Disposals Commission has accepted a tender submitted by S.W.Hecker, Lennox Street, Maryborough Qld
16.3.45	Issued to Mr. Hecker ex 3CRD Amberley

21.4.45	Registration application: S. W. Hecker, Maryborough Qld
4.45	Hecker wrote to DCA advising he has purchased Fairchild A36-3 and Miles Falcon A37-3 from disposals and intends to have both given overhauls for CofA
5.45	The Falcon and Fairchild were inspected by a DCA inspector, while both were in storage at Heckers Garage at Maryborough. The Falcon will be given a civil overhaul by engineer Joe Vine at Marybrough. The Fairchild is in good condition except for some fabric damage, which occurred during road transporting after collection from RAAF. No engine. Hecker plans no immediate action to overhaul the Fairchild because of the cost of engines imported from USA. He wants to fit a higher powered Scarab ex RAAF Wacketts when they become available.
15.10.47	CofA issued
15.10.47	Restored to Register VH-UYH S. W. Hecker, Maryborough Qld
14.10.48	CofA expired, not intended to renew immediately
16.5.49	Change of ownership: Lionel Airley Wall, "Lindfield" Station, Julia Creek, Qld
24.5.49	CofA renewed
25.5.50	Change of ownership: Phylis Eileen Theodora Wall, Julia Creek, Qld
29.6.54	Change of ownership: Estate of the late P. E. T. Wall, c/- L.A. Wall, Julia Creek, Qld
1.8.54	Departed Bankstown in the Redex Air Trial. Crew were pilot Lionel A. Wall and engineer Joe C.Vine
23.8.55	Change of ownership: Thomas W. Alexander Wall & Lionel A. Wall, Townsville Qld
56	Stored dismantled in Howard Aircraft hangar at Mackay Qld. Engineer Ivan Unwin recalls carrying out a complete overhaul at Mackay c1958 and it was flown away by Arthur Wall.
1.9.59	Change of ownership: Arthur G. H. Wall, Julia Creek, Qld Aircraft is now painted all silver with red cowling
c61	Damaged in forced landing near Julia Creek Qld
24.2.62	Struck-off Register, owner's request
25.9.64	Fuselage of VH-UYH noted in a hangar at Rockhampton Qld. Previous markings "Redex Trial 1954" could be seen through the faded paintwork on fuselage
	Note: US Registration NC16896 was not cancelled until 30.8.48 during a post-war clean-up of the US Civil Register

A smartly dressed couple admire VH-UYH at Broadmeadow airfield, Newcastle 1937. Frank Walters collection

A post-war photograph of VH-UYH, date and location not given. Geoff Goodall collection

Fairchild 24K, later 24M, 24R, 24R-46 c/n 3314 Pegasus VH-ABZ, A36-2, VH-ABZ

	Built Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co as production Model 24K. 165hp Fairchild Ranger 6.410.B1A engine
	Allocated registration NC20637. Not registered
2.8.38	Export CofA E-4256 issued to Fairchild for export to W.Shrimpton, Australia
	Shipped to Australia as cargo on board SS Port Sydney
22.11.38	Arrived Port Melbourne
	Assembled at Essendon Airport, Melbourne
25.11.38	Australian Registration application: Wallace Shrimpton, 83 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW To be based Essendon. Shrimpton was Fairchild's agent for Australia
25.11.38	Registered VH-ABZ
26.11.38	CAB Inspection Report at Essendon after assembly completed
26.11.38	First flight at Essendon, pilot Wallace Shrimpton. Then demonstration flights later that day.
26.11.38	CofA issued at Essendon after assembly
27.11.38	Local demonstration flights from Essendon, pilot Shrimpton
2.12.38	Departed Essendon on demonstration tour, pilot Shrimpton. Essendon-Cootamundra-Canberra-Sydney: 4hrs 20 mins flying time
3.12.38	Local demonstration flights at Mascot aerodrome, Sydney, pilot Shrimpton
4.12.38	Mascot-Camden-Mascot for an air pageant at Macquarie Grove Aerodrome, Camden
5.12.38	Photo in Sydney newspaper, "Latest aircraft type in the country"
6.12.38	Mascot-Newcastle-Mascot, pilot Shrimpton Newspaper photograph at Broadmeadow airfield, Newcastle outside Newcastle Aero Club hangar while on a sales tour. Dark fuselage colour with light cheatline the length of the fuselage, through large fuselage registration in a light colour.
18.12.38	Local demonstration flights from Essendon, pilot Shrimpton
21.5.39	Local flights from Mascot, pilot Shrimpton
22.5.39	Mascot-Camden, pilot Shrimpton
24.5.39	Mascot-Canberra-Essendon. 5 hrs 17 mins flying time. pilot Shrimpton, with R.W.Sheil
6.39	The Air Log report: Wallace Shrimpton has a Fairchild sales team of R.W.Shiel and A.F.Brown. VH-ABZ is known as “Fairy Floss" by the team
22.12.39	DCA Inspection report at Mascot. Total time 310 hours.
12.1.40	CofA renewed at Mascot
12.3.40	Logs: Local flights from Mascot. Last flights, then retired and stored in hangar at Mascot.
3.40	Owner Wallace Shrimpton is moving to USA to take up a new position with Fairchild Aerial Surveys. The other partners in the Fairchild sales team for Australia had both enlisted in RAAF.
1.41	VH-ABZ stored in Marshall Airways hangar at Mascot. Owner still in USA.
12.2.41	Memo to the Air Board from Officer Commanding Central Area, Sydney (Air Commodore W.H.Anderson) states: "... the establishment of No.2 Communications Flight at Mascot is laid down as a Miles Falcon, Stinson Reliant and Moth Minor aircraft. However it is understood that impressment of the Stinson Reliant is not receiving further consideration going ahead. In its place, the impressment of the following aircraft is suggested: Fairchild F.24K VH-ABZ High wing monoplane. Built 1938 Hours since new 318 Engine hours since new 360. Ranger 6 cyclinder 165hp 6-410B-1A serial No. 199 Certificate of Airworthiness 12.1.40 Time flown since CofA 19 hours Aircraft fitted with cabin lights and navigation lights, landing flaps, wheel brakes. Petrol capacity 35 gallons (Imperial), oil capacity 2 gallons (Imperial) Range 4 hours. Cruising speed 115mph on 2100 RPM This aircraft is owned by Mr.W.Shrimpton, Farmingdale, Long Island, New York. The Australian agents Messrs Allen, Allen & Hemsley, 53 Martin Place, Sydney have placed a price of £2,200 on the aircraft, but it is considered that they will accept a considerably lower offer, viz £1,800 as it is understood they are anxious to dispose of this aircraft. The price, new, was £2,500." The aircraft is housed in the Marshall Airways hangar at Kingsford Smith Aerodrome, Mascot and is identical with Fairchild A36-1 of No.1 CF, Laverton except that it has no W/T."
24.3.41	Internal Air Board memo responding to urgent requests from Commanding Officer, Western Area, Perth for light communications aircraft: "The Fairchild 24K described is considered to be suitable for the requirements of Western Area. It is understood that this aircraft is in excellent condition. It has one minor modification to be carried out on the undercarriage and should require very little work to bring it up to the standard of renewal of the Certificate of Airworthiness. The aircraft is considered to be low priced at £1,800."
27.3.41	Internal Air Board memo: "Do you agree to the purchase of the Fairchild 24K . . . the aircraft is held at Mascot and that Messrs. Allen, Allen and Hemsley (who are solicitors) are apparently in a position to negotiate this sale."
28.3.41	The Senior member of the Air Board responds in a brief memo: "I am prepared to take over the Fairchild referred to."
5.41	Impressed by RAAF as A36-2
31.5.41	Internal Air Board memo: No.1 Communications Flight will take over this Fairchild, bringing the establishment to two (additional to A36-1). The aircraft it replaces, Miles Merlin A37-4 will be transferred to the newly formed No.4 CF at Pearce WA.
12.6.41	Struck-off Register as Impressed by RAAF
14.6.41	Taken on RAAF charge as A36-2. Received at No.2 Communications Flight, Mascot (2CF)
5.7.41	Received 1CF, Laverton ex 2CF
11.2.42	Forced landing at Kilmore Vic. No damage.
9.42	U/s at 1CF due engine
12.42	Complete overhaul at 1CF Laverton.
25.1.43	Waiting for receipt of engine from 1AD Laverton
.43	1CF was renamed No.1 Communications Unit and base moved to Essendon
28.9.43	Air Board internal minute: "Re No.1 Communications Unit: It is recommended that three Fairchild aircraft now held by this Unit should be disposed of owing to the lack of replacement engines."
9.43	Air Board advised DCA that the following communications type aircraft are to be made available for civil disposal: 3 Fairchild 24s, 1 Stinson Reliant, 1 Cessna C34, 2 Beechcraft 17s
12.4.44	1CU Essendon requests allotment of A36-2
5.5.44	RAAF Survey report: Held at 1CU Essendon, total time 771 hours. Report states it is unsuitable for further RAAF communications work, no engine available and no spares available for airframe
6.5.44	RAAF Status Card: awaiting conversion to components at 1CU
14.7.44	RAAF advises DCA that they are making the following available for disposal. "These communications type aircraft are surplus to requirements." Fairchild A36-1 no engine Fairchild A36-2 no engine Fairchild A36-3 Scarab engine u/s Waco A45-1 Jacobs engine u/s Beech 17 A39-3 no engine
2.45	A36-1. A36-2 and A36-3 included in first Tender document issued by the newly formed Commonwealth Disposals Commission: closing date for tenders 20.2.45
9.3.45	Commonwealth Disposals Commission accepted tender of £475 for A36-2 submitted by Brown & Dureau Ltd, Collins Street, Melbourne
19.3.45	Issued to purchaser ex 1CU Essendon
.45	Moved by road to Geelong Vic for overhaul at Brown & Dureau's maintenance division at Belmont Common airfield
12.2.46	Registration application Brown & Dureau Pty Ltd, Melbourne Vic Aircraft is being re-engined with a 158hp Menasco C4S Pirate
	(In March 1945 Brown & Dureau purchased all the surviving RAAF Ryan STMs plus Ryan spares stocks which included Menasco Pirate engines)
c2.46	Fairchilds VH-ABZ & -ACV were inspected at Brown & Dureau's hangars at Belmont Common by Gulf Aviation Services partners John Kellow and Dick Edwards, of Whyalla SA, who purchased both.
16.3.46	Letter to DCA from J.P.Kellow, Gulf Aviation Services, Whyalla SA: he intends taking delivery of VH-ABZ from Brown & Dureau on 29 March for air taxi work at Whyalla
26.3.46	Restored to Register VH-ABZ Brown & Dureau Pty Ltd, Melbourne Vic. Due to the engine change, aircraft has been redesignated as a Fairchild F.24M
29.3.46	CofA issued
30.3.46	John Kellow later wrote: "We took delivery of VH-ABZ on March 30 1946 and VH-ACV on July 13 1946. The performance with the Menasco C4S of 160 hp against the Ranger's 175hp as only slightly down and we found that ACV's slightly more rigid engine bay design transmitted more engine vibrations than ABZ."
1.4.46	Change of ownership: Gulf Aviation Services, Whyalla SA. Named Pegasus, later Pegasus 1
46	Photo at Whyalla shows VH-ABZ with "GAS" wings emblem on left cabin door. Both GAS Fairchilds ABZ & ACV were painted ivory white with post office red trim and black pin stripes.
2.7.47	GAS commenced a daily passenger service Whyalla-Port Pirie return with the two Fairchilds. Schedules connected with train to/from Adelaide. Service discontinued 17 April 1948 when John Kellow moved to Melbourne to manage the Brown & Dureau Aerial Survey Division. DCA Annual Report for year ended June 1948: statistics for GAS: 1857 passengers carried
48	Photo of ABZ at Alice Springs NT, name "Pegasus". Reportedly being flown by Methodist Inland Mission
28.5.48	CofA renewal at Belmont Common airfield, Geelong by Brown & Dureau.
8.48	Logs: Delivered to Essendon
9.48	Advertisement in Aircraft magazine: "For Sale Fairchild 24M VH-ABZ. 1938 Model, luxury finish and upholstery. Fitted for full length stretcher (included). Menasco C4S 158 hp. CofA expires 27 May 1949. Total time 1300 hours. Apply J. P. Kellow c/- Brown & Dureau, Melbourne. "
16.10.48	Change of ownership: Harold T. Schulz, "Pine Grove", Henty NSW
7.7.49	Logs: Departed Henty for tour through NT, Queensland and NSW. 43 hours flying. Returned to Henty on 18 July 1949
8.7.49	Arrived at Broken Hill NSW en route to Tennant Creek NT, flown by owner "Bing" Schulz
19.1.53	Change of ownership: Cyril J. McMillan, Melbourne Vic
4.54	Logs: ceased flying
23.2.56	Struck-off Register due lapsed Certificate of Registration
15.11.57	Restored to Register, type still F.24M: Cyril J. McMillan, Melbourne Vic
57	Paint scheme is cream with red and black trim
14.10.58	Change of ownership: W. C. Murray, Melbourne Vic
8.9.59	noted at Moorabbin, in Schutt hangar
19.8.60	Change of ownership: J. K. Callinan, Sydney NSW
29.9.60	Logs: complete overhaul commenced by Kingsford Smith Aviation Service at Bankstown. Re-engined with 175hp Fairchild Ranger 6-440-C2. Type redesignated as Fairchild F.24R
2.10.61	visited airshow at Nowra Naval Station NSW
4.1.62	noted at Bankstown
2.2.62	noted at Bankstown
2.4.62	noted at Bankstown, outside, yellow with black and white trim
19.7.62	noted at Banktown, outside
10.1.63	noted at Bankstown, in hangar
.63	Change of ownership: Calair, Biloela Qld
22.10.63	VH-ABZ noted at Rockhampton Qld, arrived from Biloela where it is based, carrying men for a major construction project under way at Biloela.
1.11.63	Ground-looped and ran off strip into rough ground at Biloela Qld when pilot lost directional control on takeoff. Undercarriage collapsed. Pilot was Calair partner A. C. Cridland, he and 3 passengers unhurt.
7.9.64	Civil Register Change of ownership date to Calair, Biloela Qld
25.9.64	ABZ fuselage less engine noted at Rockhampton, on belly outside a hangar. Stripped of fittings, wings not seen.
4.2.65	Fuselage noted at Rockhampton inside a hangar
11.65	Fuselage noted at Rockhampton inside a hangar
.66	Moved by road from Rockhampton to Townsville for rebuild by Howard Aircraft Pty Ltd
12.67	noted at Townsville under rebuild
30.1.68	noted at Townsville under rebuild
3.68	Rebuild completed at Townsville by Howard Aircraft, reported as having taken 18 months. Airframe total time 1,881 hours New engine had been installed: 200hp Fairchild Ranger 6-440-C5. DCA changed the aircraft type designation to Fairchild F.24R-46
30.3.68	Testflown at Townsville after rebuild
4.68	Arrived Sydney-Bankstown Airport to take up residence, owned by J.Chander, previously with Calair
8.6.68	noted at Archerfield
1.69	Forced landing in Queensland, no damage. Moved by road to Archerfield for inspection, then flown out.
30.10.69	Change of ownership: Dumez (Australia) Pty Ltd, Sydney. Reported still owned and flown by J.C.Chandler
10.4.70	Change of ownership: Gunner S. Anderson, Moss Vale NSW
18.9.70	noted at Bowral NSW
14.3.71	Change of ownership: P. A. Rangott, Griffith NSW
20.3.71	Advertisement in Sydney Morning Herald newspaper: "Forced sale Fairchild 24R 200hp Ranger. Completely rebuilt 68 at cost of $10,000, 4 seats. Inspect at Camden Aviation Services: $5000
28.3.71	noted at Camden NSW with For Sale signs, white with blue & red trim
15.5.71	Change of ownership: Mainway Advertising Pty Ltd, c/- Ian Farquhar, Mittagong NSW
21.2.72	Minor damage in an accident at Bankstown
21.7.73	Competed in the NSW Air Race departing from Bankstown
22.3.75	Competed in the NSW Air Race, made forced landing at Hoxton Park airfield, no damage
7.5.76	visited Old Bowral NSW fly-in
2.77	Report: total time 2176 hours
10.4.77	noted at Mittagong NSW, flying
24.4.77	visited West Maitland NSW airshow
29.9.77	noted at Goulburn NSW
7.5.78	visited Bowral NSW fly-in, pilot Ian Farquhar
4.11.78	Competed in the NSW Air Race Sydney to Broken Hill, race No.168
19.2.79	noted at Old Bowral NSW
17.6.79	visited Wodonga Vic fly-in
7.3.83	visited Goulburn NSW airshow
9.6.85	visited Wangaratta Vic airshow, white & blue with yellow tail flash
10.7.88	Crashed on landing on owner's farm aistrip near Mittgong NSW. Turned over on to back due soft surface. Farquar and his wife were unhurt.
90	Repairs completed
27.1.91	visited Iandra NSW fly-in, white and blue with white tail
12.10.91	visited RAAF Richmond airshow
15.3.92	visited Mittagong NSW airshow
22.4.95	visited Cowra NSW fly-in, white and blue
15.6.95	Change of ownership: Geoff R. Bond, Sydney NSW
8.2.98	Change of ownership: Guy W. Kendell, Caboolture Qld
27.8.05	visited Watts Bridge Qld fly-in, different paint scheme, white with blue trim
23.4.06	visited Narrandera NSW fly-in
24.8.07	Change of ownership: Ian Kearsley, Sydney NSW
26.8.07	Badly damaged at Coffs Harbour NSW. Engine failure in the circuit at Coffs Harbour, made emergency landing but ground looped causing substantial damage. Pilot John Gallagher and new owner Ian Kearsley were unhurt.
	Repaired to airworthy by Mothcair of Murwillumbah NSW. Based at Cessnock NSW
14.8.18	Change of ownership: David A. Greig, Sydney NSW
	Current

VH-ABZ at Mascot during the demonstration tour in December 1938. Neville Parnell collection

Mascot circa 1938. Frank Walters collection

This wartime picture shows Fairchild A36-2 parked between the Tiger Moth and Anson.

Belmont Common, Geelong 1946, now with a Menasco Pirate engine. Kevin O'Reilly collection

VH-ABZ was given the name Pegasus 1 by Gulf Aviation Services at Whyalla SA. Frank Walters collection

Moorabbin 1957, without wheel spats. Photo by Neil Follett

Moorabbin 1958. Photo by Eddie Coates

Bankstown circa 1960, re-engined with a Fairchild Ranger. Frank Walters collection

Bankstown January 1963 Photo by Bob Neate

Mittagong NSW in April 1977 where it was based at the time. Photo by Dave Prossor

Wangaratta Vic at an airshow in June 1985. Phoyto by John Hopton

Arriving at Narrandera NSW for a fly-in, April 2006. Photo by Phil Vabre

Model F.24R.9, to 24M, to 24R9W c/n R9-416 Pegasus II VH-ACV, A36-1, VH-ACV, VH-BVF, VH-JCG

7.39	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co as a production Model 24R.9. 165hp Fairchild Ranger 6.410.B2 engine
25.7.39	First flight Hagerstown MD
	No US Registration
3.8.37	Export CofA E-5328 issued to Fairchild for export to Wallace Shrimpton, Sydney (agent)
	Shipped to Australia
	Assembled at Mascot aerodrome, Sydney by Kingsford Smith Air Service for Australian Fairchild agent Wallace Shrimpton.
13.10.39	DCA Inspection Report at Mascot after assembly completed. Total time: 12 hrs 40 mins
16.10.39	Registered VH-ACV Newcastle Aero Club, Broadmeadow airfield, Newcastle NSW
16.10.39	CofA issued
8.40	Impressed by RAAF as A36-1
3.9.40	Taken on RAAF charge. Received at 1AD Laverton ex Newcastle Aero Club
9.9.40	Serviceable at 1AD
22.9.40	On strength with No.1 Communications Flight, Laverton ex 1AD
30.9.40	VH-ACV struck-off Civil Register as impressed
18.4.41	Tyre burst in forced landing near Mount Gambier SA when ran out of fuel.
20.4.41	Serviceable with 1CF
22.4.42	Forced landing, nil damage
7.12.42	U/s at 1CF, awaiting engine parts
25.1.43	Ranger engine being fitted
4.6.43	Complete engine overhaul at 1CF
43	1CF was renamed No.1 Communications Unit and moved to Essendon Airport, Melbourne
28.9.43	Air Board internal minute: "Re No.1 Communications Unit: It is recommended that three Fairchild aircraft now held by this Unit should be disposed of owing to the lack of replacement engines."
9.43	Air Board wrote to DCA advising that 3 Fairchilds, 1 Cessna C34, 2 Beech 17s held by 1CU to be made available for disposal because no engines are available.
12.4.44	1CU requests allotment
5.5.44	RAAF Survey report at 1CU Essendon: Total time 945 hrs, no engine available
14.7.44	RAAF advises DCA that they are making the following available for disposal. "These communications type aircraft are surplus to requirements." Fairchild A36-1 no engine Fairchild A36-2 no engine Fairchild A36-3 Scarab engine u/s Waco A45-1 Jacobs engine u/s Beech 17 A39-3 no engine
2.45	A36-1. A36-2 and A36-3 included in first Tender document issued by the newly formed Commonwealth Disposals Commission: closing date for tenders 20.2.45
9.3.45	Commonwealth Disposals Commission accepted tender of £475 submitted by Brown & Dureau, Collins Street, Melbourne
19.3.45	Issued to purchaser ex 1CU
	Moved by road from Essendon to Belmont Common airfield, Geelong Vic for overhaul by Brown & Dureau's maintenance division. Installed a Menasco C4S Pirate engine
	(In March 1945 Brown & Dureau purchased all the surviving RAAF Ryan STMs plus Ryan spares stocks which included Menasco Pirate engines)
c2.46	Fairchilds VH-ABZ & -ACV were inspected at Brown & Dureau's hangars at Belmont Common by Gulf Aviation Services partners John Kellow and Dick Edwards, of Whyalla SA, who purchased both.
11.7.46	CofA issued at Belmont Common
11.7.46	Restored to Register VH-ACV: Brown & Dureau Pty Ltd, Melbourne Vic. Due re-engining, type changed to Fairchild F.24M
12.7.46	Change of ownership: Gulf Aviation Services, Whyalla SA. Named Pegasus II
46	Photo shows "Pegasus II" with "GAS" on left cabin door. Both GAS Fairchilds were painted ivory white with post office red trim and black pin stripes.
2.7.47	GAS commenced a daily Fairchild passenger service Whyalla-Port Pirie return. Schedules connected with train to/from Adelaide. Service discontinued 17 April 1948 when John Kellow moved to Melbourne to manage the Brown & Dureau Aerial Survey Division. DCA Annual Report for year ended June 1948: statistics for GAS: 1857 passengers carried
13.7.46	John Kellow later wrote: "We took delivery of VH-ABZ on March 30 1946 and VH-ACV on July 13 1946. The performance with the Menasco C4S of 160 hp against the Ranger's 175hp as only slightly down and we found that ACV's slightly more rigid engine bay design transmitted more engine vibrations than ABZ."
10.7.48	Change of ownership: Frederick John Williams, Nhill Vic. Retained name Pegasus II
4.2.51	Crashed, overturned on takeoff near Nhill Vic. Jack Williams had flown from Nhill to the Dahlenburg farm, 8 miles east of Nhill and was taking off to return to Nhill. He lost control soon after airborne, struck the ground and aircraft turned over on to its back. Pilot F. J. Williams received head injuries and his passengers, a lady and her son, received minor injuries. Reported cause was a failure of the control column.
	(Williams purchased Fairchild 24 VH-ACW on 24.3.51 to replace ACV)
18.1.52	Williams wrote to DCA advising "It is quite possible that ACV might be built up again at a later date."
1.9.53	Struck-off Register
	Wreck sold to Kingsford Smith Aviation Services Pty Ltd, Bankstown Airport, Sydney
56	Rebuilt by KSAS at Bankstown and fitted with a Warner Super Scarab 165D.
	(KSAS had purchased large numbers of RAAF CAC Wackett Trainers from disposals after WWII and Wackett spares stocks including Super Scarab engines)
5.7.56	Testflown Bankstown after rebuild
6.7.56	Restored to Register VH-BVF Kingsford Smith Aviation Services Pty Ltd, Bankstown NSW
7.56	DCA memo: "After the forward fuselage was rebuilt, the 24R-9 fuselage is identical to with the 24W-41A Argus but because of the different tankages and lack of comparative data on wings, the All Up Weight and CofG limitations have been retained as original 24R-9 values. The 24R-9 designation is shown on the manufacturer's plate."
9.7.56	Change of ownership: Forma Motors, 163 Hume Highway, Yagoona, Sydney Partners in Forma Motors are N. K. Fortune and C. G. Martin.
24.1.57	Change of ownership: C. H. Michael, Sydney
18.6.57	Receiver appointed for Forma Motors. The partnership has disposed of VH-BVF to Mr. J. H. Bowden, however Mr. C. Michael who claims to have a security over BVF had already transferred the aircraft to his name. After negotiations, Michael consents to the ownership of the aircraft to be transferred to Bowden.
28.6.57	Change of ownership: Joseph H. Bowden, Sydney
22.1.58	noted at Bankstown
4.6.59	Change of ownership: R. G. Douglas, Sydney
14.9.60	Change of ownership: J. G. Stone, Sydney
30.6.61	Change of ownership: H. C. Sirl, "Lynden" via Moree NSW
15.9.61	Log: Total airframe time now 1858 hrs
17.3.62	visited Cootamundra NSW airshow. Blue, yellow and white paint scheme
18.5.63	noted at Bankstown, in Bristol Aviation hangar
10.1.64	noted at Bankstown, in hangar
28.1.64	Change of ownership: J. F. Pike, "Hillsdale", Trundle NSW
18.4.64	visited Condobolin NSW airshow
23.4.64	visited Parkes NSW airshow
18.7.64	noted at Parkes. New colour scheme of silver, yellow and white
11.10.64	noted at Parkes
20.10.64	Log: Total airframe time now 1912 hrs
28.3.65	visited Bathurst NSW airshow
23.4.66	visited Parkes NSW airshow
19.3.68	Log: Total airframe time now 1974 hrs
21.7.68	noted at Bankstown, parked on grass, "For Sale" sign
8.5.69	Change of ownership: Skyservice Aviation Pty Ltd, Camden Airport, Camden NSW
69	Based at Camden, flown by Ed Fleming, owner of Skyservice Aviation mostly for pilot endorsement on to the type. Paint scheme yellow, black and white. Warner Scarab engine
15.11.69	Change of ownership: J. H. Stewart, Sydney
4.1.70	noted at Bankstown, yellow, black and white
16.2.70	Change of ownership: Fred Williams Marine, Sydney
7.71	Change of ownership: Keith Singh, Tamworth NSW Singh was a partner in Navair, Bankstown
21.10.71	Struck-off Register
2.72	noted at Bankstown, in hangar on overhaul
4.5.72	Change of ownership: John W. Cameron, Bankstown NSW
.72	Cameron operated a maintenance business John Cameron Aviation at Bankstown. He received BVF with expired CofA and CofR from Navair.
76	stored dismantled in John Cameron Aviation hangar, Bankstown
4.78	noted at Bankstown, dismantled in John Cameron hangar
24.8.80	noted at Bankstown, dismantled in John Cameron hangar
.82	Purchased unrestored by John Gallagher, Sydney. Purchase included 2 spare Warner Scarab engines, 2 Wackett props, engine spares and airframe spares
86	Stored dismantled at Scheyville NSW with aircraft of Historical Aircraft Restoration Society
6.87	John Gallagher owns BVF & ADF both requiring restoration. BVF is stored at Scheyville, Western Sydney where HARS have their collection stored. He intends to restore BVF to airworthy then sell to finance other projects including his CA-6 Wackett Trainer VH-DGR.
.88	Gallagher moved the stripped airframe from Scheyville to Wedderburn airfield NSW where he had erected a hangar for aircraft restorations.
96	Stored at Wedderburn airfield NSW
11.12.00	Registered VH-JCG John Gallagher, Sydney NSW. Registered as model F.24R9W, Warner Super Scarab engine. C/n R9-416
	Long-term restoration project at Wedderburn

Broadmeadow airfield, Newcastle 1939. Neil Follett collection

After impressment as A36-1, still in civilian red and silver paint scheme. Michael Austin collection

A36-1 with No.1 Communications Flight, Laverton in 1940. Michael Austin collection

Nhill Vic 1950 while owned by Nhill garage owner Jack Williams. Kevin O'Reilly collection

Takeoff crash on a farm near Nhill Vic, 4 February 1951. Kevin O'Reilly collection

Rebuilt with a Warner Scarab radial, seen at Bankstown shortly after completion. Ben Dannecker collection

At an airshow at Condobolin NSW in April 1964. Photo by Bob Neate

Bankstown in January 1970. Photo by Dave Eyre

VH-BVF being moved by John Gallagher (seen at left) to Wedderburn in 1988. Photo by Graham Orphan

Model F.24R.9 c/n R9-415 Pegasus III VH-ACW, (A36-4), VH-ACW

3.6.39	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co as a production Model 24R.9. 165hp Fairchild Ranger 6.410.B2 engine
20.6.39	First flight at Hagerstown MD
	No US registration
	Export CofA E-5191 issued to Fairchild for export to A. G. Bond, Australia
	Shipped to Australia
24.10.39	Assembled at Mascot aerodrome, Sydney by Kingsford Smith Air Service for Australian Fairchild agent Wallace Shrimpton. Total airframe time: 2 hrs 35 mins
24.10.39	Australian Registration application: Albert G. Bond c/- Bonds Airways Ltd, Parafield SA Bonds Airways was a division of Bond's Australian Scenic Motor Tours, Adelaide SA
	Bond traded his DH.87B Hornet Moth VH-UXO to Wallace Shrimpton on the new Fairchild. Shrimpton had a resale arranged and promptly sold the Hornet Moth on 26.10.39.
24.10.39	Registered VH-ACW
	Adelaide commercial pilot Bill Maddocks at times flew Bond's Hornet Moth, then Fairchild on joyriding tours of the southern districts of South Australia.
40	Connellan Airways' first pilot John P. Kellow later wrote: "The first Fairchild I met was when I was flying for Connellan Airways at Alice Springs in 1939-40 and was VH-ACW which was flown up from Adelaide by its owner Bert Bond of Bond Tours. He wanted to visit some lakes about 100 miles NW of Alice Springs where we had cleared a strip and I flew up there and back with him. Fitted with the Ranger VI, it was the smoothest and most stable aircraft I had ever flown, and I was most impressed."
24.4.42	Letter from Director General of Civil Aviation to Department of Air in response to enquiry concerning availability of civil aircraft which could be impressed for RAAF use by Western Command: "The following aircraft could reasonably be made available for use in communication flying in Western Australia" - list includes: "Fairchild 24R.9 VH-ACW owned Bonds Airways Ltd, 132 North Terrace, Adelaide"
5.42	A. G. (Bert) Bond uses VH-ACW for special military charter flights in SA, mainly to Kingscote and Whyalla. Since January 1942 the Fairchild has flown at least 12 trips for the military authorities. He also flies it on Army Anti-Aircraft gunnery range finding at Adelaide.
3.9.42	Impressment Requisition issued for RAAF. Assigned serial A36-4
9.42	Impressment deferred due to the aircraft's use on Army cooperation work
11.42	VH-ACW used mainly on Army cooperation duties, and anti-aircraft gunnery range finding
7.43	DCA approve use of VH-ACW by Guinea Airways, Parafield to replace their DH.83 Fox Moth on the Adelaide-Port Pirie scheduled service
1.7.43	Forced landing near Snowtown SA due engine trouble, no damage. The aircraft was on charter to Guinea Airways, Parafield, flown by Guinea Airways pilot K. W. Steele.
5.44	DCA Inspection report: paint scheme was cream fuselage, blue registration letters, silver wings
19.12.46	CofA expired at Parafield. Not immediately renewed due to problems with the Ranger engine
16.5.49	CofA renewed at Parafield. Still owned by A. G. Bond who is now a partner in Robbys Aircraft Repair Co Ltd, Parafield. ACW will be used for airwork and charter flights.
4.50	Advertised for sale
4.50	Royal Flying Doctor Services (WA Section) wrote to DCA stating they were interested in purchasing ACW but they would want it re-engined with a Gipsy VI and 165hp Lycoming engine.
15.5.50	CofA expired
5.50	DCA approve a short-term CofA renewal to allow demonstration flights to prospective buyers. Not sold, and returned to charter flying with Robbys.
24.3.51	Change of ownership: Frederick J. Williams, Nhill Vic. Named Pegasus III
	Purchased by Williams to replace F24R VH-ACV which crashed near Nhill 4.2.51
22.9.54	Change of ownership: Owen Johns, 332 Barkly Street Ararat Vic
7.57	Change of engine model: Ranger 6.410.B2A replaced by Ranger 6.440.C5. Airframe total time: 905 hrs 25 mins. DCA report states the new Ranger gives a markedly superior takeoff and climb performance compared with the Fairchild Argus with 150hp Warner Scarab.
4.7.58	Ownership amended to Rippon Airways, 332 Barkly Street Ararat Vic
27.2.59	Change of ownership: A. J. W. Connell, "The Towers", Coleraine Vic
9.59	DCA inspection report: total airframe time: 1210 hrs
3.12.59	Forced landing in a paddock near Willaura Vic, due engine failure while enroute to Moorabbin
8.12.61	Change of ownership: Burns Pictures, Seymour Vic. Based at Wangaratta Vic
18.3.62	visited Cootamundra NSW airshow
19.10.63	Damaged on landing Rochester Vic. Ground-looped due to oil on the brake linings, undercarriage collapsed. Pilot G. L. White and 3 passengers unhurt.
21.11.63	Struck-off Register
8.1.64	noted at Albury NSW, in a hangar covered in dust
12.1.64	noted at Albury, in a hangar
27.11.64	noted at Albury, under rebuild
3.12.64	noted at Albury, under rebuild
1.2.65	noted at Albury, under rebuild
2.3.65	noted at Albury, under rebuild
9.3.65	noted at Albury, under rebuild, restored fuselage white doped
13.8.65	Restored to Register: K. H. Torr & partners, Melbourne Vic Partners were A. Schwarze, K. Broadbent, J. Hunt and B. Twigg: they and Torr were all employees of Trans Australia Airlines at Essendon Airport, Melbourne.
18.8.65	visited Essendon Airport, dark blue & white paint scheme
21.8.65	noted at Moorabbin
6.11.65	noted at Moorabbin, being repainted into a lighter blue and white scheme
5.12.65	visited Bendigo Vic airshow, blue and white
17.5.66	noted at Moorabbin
13.11.66	visited Kerang Vic airshow
5.2.67	visited Hamilton Vic airshow
2.4.67	visited Warracknabeal Vic airshow
3.12.67	visited Tyabb Vic airshow
12.1.68	visited Mangalore Vic airshow, blue & white
10.68	Total airframe time: 1574 hrs
26.3.70	Change of ownership: G. A. Douglas, Melbourne Vic. Based at Lillydale airfield
8.71	Total airframe time: 1645 hrs
12.4.71	visited Morwell Vic fly-in
29.9.71	Change of ownership: K. G. Hilless, Dalby Qld
12.10.71	Forced landing near Griffith NSW due engine trouble while on delivery flight from Victoria to Dalby, No damage, left parked in paddock.
14.11.71	Badly damaged when blown on to back by wind near Griffith NSW. Insurance write-off.
26.11.71	Struck-off Register
	Sold "as is" to Alan Stanfield, Sydney NSW
	Wreck moved by road to Sydney where stored in the Supreme Mousetraps factory near Mascot Airport, along with Stanfield's Chrislea Skyjeep VH-RCD. Both were restoration projects
1.78	sold to J. M. Balfour, Sydney
11.1.79	Registration VH-ACW reserved by DoT for J. M. Balfour for Fairchild rebuild
5.80	Stored at a suburban house in Sydney pending rebuild. Balfour is a friend of John Cameron who had Fairchild 24 VH-BVF dismantled in his hangar at Bankstown.
19.4.83	Registration VH-ACW now reserved by DoT for Mr. Renk
83/99	Reportedly under restoration in WA by Richard Renk
2.98	VH-ACW noted at Jandakot Airport, Perth under restoration, all red fuseklage, wings red and white
	Restoration project acquired by Geoff Bond, Sydney, grandson of the original owner Bert Bond. Geoff also owned Ranger VH-ABZ.
.10	Restoration project acquired by Andy Bishop, Temora NSW Bishop is ground engineer with Temora Aviation Museum. He plans to install a higher power 200hp model of Ranger engine with an Aeromatic propeller.
.10	Moved by road to Temora.
	Restoration continues 2020

Parafield SA pre-war, with Bonds Airways. Nigel Daw collection

Parafield c1946, still with Bonds Airways. Civil Aviation Historical Society SA

Parafield 1950 used for charter by Robbys Aircraft. Civil Aviation Historical Society SA

Bankstown circa 1955. Photo by Eddie Coates

VH-ACW's cabin 1950s. David Anderson collection

Visiting an airshow at Warracknabeal Vic in April 1967. Photo by Geoff Goodall

Visiting another airshow, at Mangalore Vic in January 1968. Photo by John Hopton

VH-ACW under restoration at Jandakot WA in February 1998. Photo by Lindsay Nothrop

Model F.24R.40 c/n R40-407 VH-ADF, A36-4, VH-ADF

4.40	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co as a production Model 24R.40. 175hp Fairchild Ranger 6.410.B3 engine
	No US Registration
8.5.40	Cable to Department of Civil Aviation HQ, Melbourne from Right Honourable Richard G. Casey, Australian Legation, Washington DC: “Am buying Fairchild 24 Ranger engine colour yellow. Only American citizen can register aircraft here but Civil Aeronautics Authority recommend registration in Australia which they will gladly recognise. Grateful therefore you cable me authorisation register Fairchild as VH-ACA my old Gull registration or other letters and Australian radio licence enable use radio with callsign same as registration letters. Signed Casey” DCA repy stated the Department prefered not to re-allocate the same registration and instead allocated VH-ADF. (Richard Casey’s Percival Vega Gull VH-ACA had been taken over by RAAF in January 1940 when he departed for his posting to Washington)
	Richard Gardner Casey was born 29 August 1890 in Brisbane, educated in Melbourne, graduated in engineering at Cambridge University in Britain. He worked as a geologist and mining consultant in Queensland, New Guinea and USA before joining the Australian Imperial Force at outbreak of WWI, serving at Gallipoli and the Western Front, awarded Military Cross and DSO. In 1924 he joined the Australian Public Service and was appointed Australian Liaison Officer in London. Returned to Victoria in 1931 and entered Federal politics, becoming Treasurer, later Minister for Supply and Development. In January 1940 Prime Minister R. G. Menzies appointed Casey as Minister to the United States, based Washington DC, a move widely seen as using the WWII situation to distance his main political rival. In March 1942 Winston Churchill appointed Casey as UK Minister for State in the Middle East, based Cairo. In January 1944 Churchill appointed him Governor of Bengal, India. Casey returned to Australia in 1946 and was re-elected to Federal Parliament under Menzies, and served again as Minister for Supply and Development, then Minister for External Affairs. In 1960 Casey was made a Life Peer of the British House of Lords. In September 1965 he was appointed Australian Governor-General until April 1969 when he retired to a property near Berwick, Victoria with title Lord Casey of Berwick. His last two aircraft, Messenger VH-AVQ and Cessna 180 VH-RGC were hangared at Berwick airfield.
9.5.40	Registered VH-ADF Richard Gardner Casey, "Edrington", Berwick Vic
	Casey was Australia's first Ambassador to the United States. VH-ADF was based at at Bolling Field, Washington DC, flown by Casey. Fairchild was all yellow with green wing struts and undercarriage. Magazine reports at the time state that he named the Fairchild "Boomerang", but it was not painted on the aircraft
18.5.40	Export CofA E-6151 issued to Fairchild for export to Richard G. Casey, Australian Legation, Washington DC. "To be operated in US airspace under Australian marks."
26.3.42	R. G. Casey cabled the Department of Air, Canberra from Washington DC offering his private aircraft Fairchild VH-ADF to the Australian Government. Total time 200 hours, current CofA and in first class condition.
26.3.42	Internal Air Board memo: "I had a telephone message from Major Langslow at Canberra to-day, and he repeated to me a cable that had just been received from Washington, wherein Mr. R.G.Casey offered his private aeroplane to the Australian Government as a gift. Details of the aircraft are: Fairchild 4-seater Type 24 R40 170 horse-power Ranger engine Aircraft built in April, 1940 Complete with instruments; sensitive altimeter, turn and bank indicator, Sperry horizon, etc. Tank capacity 60 U.S. gallons Uses 80 octane spirit Has done approximately 200 hours' flying Holds Airworthy Certificate, and is in first-class condition. Since this aircraft would be most suitable for communication purposes, I informed Major Langslow that we should not hesitate to accept it. The only conditions were that we should crate and pack the aircraft and pay freight for delivery to Australia, and that Mr. Casey would be glad to accept an aircraft of approximately similar qualities after the war. This however, was not an essential condition of the handover. Major Langslow informed me that he would send a suitable signal to Washington accepting the aircraft."
	Shipped from North America to Australia
15.3.43	Taken on RAAF charge as A36-4. Received at No.1 Aircraft Park, Geelong Vic ex R.G.Casey
5.4.43	Received at No.1 Communications Flight, Essendon ex 1AP
.43	1CF was renamed 1 Communications Unit
6.5.44	RAAF Status Card: awaiting conversion to components at 1CU
7.5.44	A36-4 visited CAC factory at Fishermans Bend, Melbourne
5.6.44	RAAF Status Card: held u/s at 1CU awaiting engine allotment
20.5.46	Letter to DCA from R. G. Casey: "The RAAF are about to return to me a Fairchild 24 which I loaned them for communications work in early 1942 (sic). It is due to have the engine changed at Laverton RAAF Station."
28.5.46	DCA file memo: Fairchild A36-4 is undergoing CofA renewal by ANA at Essendon
2.9.46	RAAF Status Card: Allotted to 1AD Laverton. On completion of engine change 1AD will issue aircraft free to R. G. Casey
12.9.46	Issued by RAAF to R. G. Casey c/- Victorian & Interstate Airways, Essendon Airport
12.9.46	Struck-off RAAF charge
13.5.47	Log book: ferried Essendon-RAAF Laverton
8.8.47	1AD Laverton test flight, pilot Group Captain Henry
26.9.47	1AD Laverton test flight, pilot Group Captain Henry
7.10.47	1AD Laverton test flight, pilot Group Captain Henry
9.10.47	1AD Laverton test flight, pilot Group Captain Henry
15.10.47	Log book: Laverton-Essendon-Laverton
17.10.47	Log book: test flight
27.10.47	CofA issued. Now fitted with a Ranger 6.440 engine
27.10.47	Restored to Register VH-ADF Richard G. Casey, "Edrington", Berwick Vic
2.11.47	Log book: next test flight
11.11.47	Log book: Essendon-Berwick-Essendon
23.12.47	Log book: pilot conversion
25.12.47	Log book: pilot conversion
17.1.48	Log book: Essendon-Berwick. Then based at Berwick
1.49	CofA renewed at Essendon by ANA. Had only flown 10 hours since rebuild, always hangared
8.9.56	Log book: handed over to Fred Bird at Brisbane after flown up from Melbourne
9.9.56	Change of ownership: Frederick L. Bird, Ennis Aviation, "Ennis Downs" Station, Richmond Qld
15.8.59	Change of owner's address: Frederick L. Bird, c/- Somerset Airways, Longreach Qld
8.1.64	noted Camden
28.3.64	Departed Archerfield as entrant number 166 in the Ansett Air Race Brisbane-Adelaide flown by Fred Bird, arrived Parafield 31.3.64. Allover mustard yellow.
10.8.67	noted at Winton Qld
15.9.70	Change of ownership: Peter J. Annand, Brisbane Qld. He swapped his Tiger Moth VH-KRW with Fred Bird for the Fairchild
23.9.70	noted at Archerfield
27.6.71	noted at Archerfield, all yellow
21.1.72	noted at Archerfield
5.72	Advertised for sale in AOPA magazine by Peter Annand: Ranger engine only 5 hours since complete overhaul, total time 1300 hours. Major inspection due in 1974. Some spare parts included. For sale or exchange for a Cessna 150.
30.3.73	Change of ownership: Barry J. Haddon, Corrimal NSW
4.4.74	noted at Albion Park NSW, outside, all yellow
2.7.74	Struck-off Register at owner's request. Retired for overhaul
76	Dismantled in hangar at Wollongong-Albion Park NSW having rebuild. Fuselage reported completed, wings having new fabric applied by Barry Haddon
21.8.76	noted Albion Park in hangar
28.9.77	noted Albion Park in hangar
18.8.80	noted Albion Park in hangar, still dismantled.
8.80	Purchased in dismantled condition by John Gallagher, Sydney NSW
2.11.80	moved by road from Albion Park Airport to Gallagher's house at 11 Spur Crescent, Loftus for storage pending rebuild by Gallagher
22.7.81	Gallagher reserved registration VH-ADF for the aircraft
84	Fuselage stored in open at Gallagher's house, wings in a backyard shed
6.87	Report: John Gallagher, Sydney owns BVF & ADF both requiring restoration. ADF is stored in his maintenance hangar at Wedderburn airstrip, Western Sydney. He intends a long-term restoration to fly and he will retain ADF because of its history
96/21	Stored by John Gallagher as a restoration project
.21	Sold to Brian & Damien Turner/ Latrobe Valley Airframes and Welding, Latrobe Valley Airport, Morwell Vic
11.21	noted in Brian Turner's hangar at Latrobe Valley Airport, dismanted sections showing the effects of 50 years of storage
	Brian Turner wrote in June 2022: "We are now the proud owners of Fairchild 24R40 VH-ADF. We purchased this historic machine from John and Chris Gallagher last year, but with COVID restrictions and lockdowns have now been able to take possession. This will be our own project and restoration will be carried out in our hangar at Latrobe Valley in due course. To date the only progress (largely due to lack of space) is to have the fuselage frame X-Rayed. This will be a long term project but the aircraft is complete, which of course is a huge advantage for us."

	Note: NC47053 has been incorrectly quoted in some sources as a factory allocation. C/ns R40-401 to R40-409 were allocated within the range NC25324 to NC25392, but no US civil Registration was assigned to R40-407 VH-ADF because of its Australian owner.

Bolling Field, Washington DC in 1940 Neville Parnell collection

Essendon in 1948 after RAAF service, painted yellow and green. Neil Follett collection

Another view at Essendon in 1948. Photo by Allan Betteridge via Civil Aviation Historical Society

   VH-ADF in 1956 at "Ennis Downs" Station in outback Queensland, where its new owner aviation engineer Fred Bird operated
        his aircraft maintenance business during the 1950s. Beech Staggerwing VH-UXP was also based at "Ennis Downs".
                  This and the next photo were taken by Fred Bird and are courtesy of his daughter Meredith Freeman.

Ennis Downs Station mid 1950s

Parafield March 1964 at the end of the Ansett Air Race Brisbane-Adelaide. Photo by John M. Smith

Albion Park airfield, Wollongong NSW in April 1974. Photo by Dave Eyre

Stored at John Gallagher's house in the Sydney in February 1981, all yellow. Photo by John Gallagher

2) POSTWAR IMPORTS: All from Great Britain, civilianised former RAF Argus models:

Model F.24W-41 Argus 1 c/n 284 VH-AKY

28.2.42	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co to USAAF order as a production Model 24W.41 with 175hp Warner Super Scarab series 50A radial.
	USAAF designation Fairchild UC-61-FA, serial 41-38840
	Transferred to Great Britain under Lend Lease
25.4.42	Taken on RAF charge as type Argus 1 serial EV776. Shipped to Great Britain
5.42	Issued to Air Transport Auxiliary, White Waltham
10.45	Ceased flying with ATA at White Waltham
12.12.46	Sold by RAF disposals to Mr. Molt-Bignell (RAF record card quotes "Holt-Bigall")
10.1.47	Clearance for sale by USA Flying Club, USAAF Depot, Oberpfaffenhofen Air Base, West Germany. All RAF Argus postwar disposals were sold to USAFC as a paper transaction to satisfy Lend-Lease requirements
25.1.47	Registered G-AJDO Hubert Holt-Bignell, Stood Green, Betchworth, Surrey Model quoted as F.24W-41 Argus I, identity quoted as EV776 and 41H-38840
22.5.47	US Export CofA issued (Paperwork exercise to allow British civil registration)
12.6.47	British CofA issued
1.5.50	Struck-off British Register as sold abroad
	Shipped to Australia, imported by Kingsford Smith Aviation Service, Sydney
10.10.50	Australian Registration application: Kingsford Smith Aviation Service Pty Ltd, Mascot Aerodrome, Sydney. The application stated the following details: Fairchild 24W-41A c/n "ZV776", ex AAF 41438840, engine Warner R500-7" At that time KSAS was in the process of moving its extensive maintenance and sales operation from Mascot Aerodrome to Bankstown Aerodrome, Sydney. DCA required the non-airline companies and Royal Aero Club of NSW at Mascot to vacate to allow airline terminal development.
13.10.50	Testflown after assembly. DCA file does not indicate whether this aircraft was assembled at Mascot or Bankstown
13.10.50	Registered VH-AKY Civil Register quoted identity as "ZV776", the misread former RAF serial.
15.3.51	Change of ownership: William E. Passlow, Riverlea Market Gardens, Madang, New Guinea
28.3.51	DCA approve export to New Guinea to W.E.Passlow.
4.51	Flown from Sydney to New Guinea
11.52	DCA Port Moresby office memo: VH-AKY is in an advanced state of disrepair and is in the hands of receivers
16.6.54	Struck-off Register
16.5.54	At request of owner, DCA reserved registration VH-AKY: "reserved 16.5.54 for rebuild".
	Last reported stored dismantled in a shed at Madang. Believed it was shipped to Australia for use as spare parts
	Bill Passlow's son Noel writes: "The last I saw of VH-AKY was in the top shed on our property in Madang. As I was aged only 7 or 8 at the time I cannot attest as to its condition although the wings were removed and also stored in the shed. My father was killed in Dragon VH-AOT not long after in August 1955 and I went to Lae where my mother moved....."

Pacific Islands Monthly, August 1951

Model F.24W-41 Argus II c/n 854 VH-AKZ

.44	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co to USAAF order as a production Model 24W.41A with 175hp Warner Super Scarab series 50A radial.
	USAAF designation Fairchild UC-61A-FA, serial 43-14890
	Transferred to Great Britain under Lend Lease
4.5.44	Taken on RAF charge as type Argus II serial HB617 Shipped new to Great Britain
5.44	Delivered to Air Transport Auxiliary, White Waltham
10.45	Ceased flying with ATA, White Waltham
22.1.47	Sold by RAF disposals to Amalgamated Air Services
2.5.47	Clearance for sale by USA Flying Club, USAAF Depot, Oberpfaffenhofen Air Base, West Germany. USA Flying Club was the nominal owner in Britain for civil sales of Lend Lease aircraft
8.5.47	Registered G-AJSO West London Aero Club, White Waltham. Identity quoted as 853
10.11.47	British CofA issued
10.1.48	Change of owner name: West London Aero Services Ltd, White Waltham
1.5.50	Struck-off British Register as sold abroad
	Shipped to Ausytralia. Imported by Kingsford Smith Aviation Service, Sydney
26.10.50	Registration application: Kingsford Smith Aviation Service Pty Ltd, Mascot Aerodrome, Sydney At that time KSAS was in the process of moving its extensive maintenance and sales operation from Mascot Aerodrome to Bankstown Aerodrome, Sydney. DCA required the non-airline companies and Royal Aero Club of NSW at Mascot to vacate to allow airline terminal development.
1.12.50	Testflown after assembly. DCA file does not indicate whether this aircraft was assembled at Mascot or Bankstown
1.12.50	Australian CofA issued
1.12.50	Registered VH-AKZ
3.1.51	Minor damage in forced landing near Kandos NSW. Pilot Paull of KSAS
30.3.53	Danaged in groundloop on landing at Bankstown. Undercarriage, wing and aeleron badly damaged. Pilot L. Wegemund
23.10.53	Change of ownership: James W. Packer, Tamworth NSW
1.7.57	Change of ownership: Tamair Pty Ltd,Tamworth NSW c/- J.W.Packer
2.5.61	Change of ownership: William J. Weatherstone, South Grafton NSW t/a Grafton Air Taxi Service
14.5.61	Undercarriage collapsed in ground-loop on landing South Grafton. Pilot Bill Weatherstone and three passengers unhurt.
	Reportedly caused by a faulty previous welding repair in the undercarriage leg shackle. Rebuilt by LAME Lance Fletcher of Royal Newcastle Aero Club at Rutherford NSW. He built a new mainplane using the damage one as a template due lack of engineering drawings and a new propeller was purchased from Ditchmans at Archerfield. Testflown by Joe Lee of Tamworth. Reference: Rag and Tube magazine, June 1978
24.1.64	noted at Grafton, paint scheme yellow green and red, "Grafton Air Taxi Service" titles
3.5.64	Change of ownership: Simpson Motors, Brisbane Qld
7.64	noted at Archerfield, repainted red white and blue
22.8.64	noted at Archerfield
23.9.64	noted at Archerfield
9.12.64	Change of ownership: Voice of Deliverance Ministry, Moss Vale NSW Established by evangelist N. B. Cooper, with a registered office in New Zealand
24.1.65	noted at Camden NSW, "Voice of Deliverance" titles, red, white and black
6.2.65	noted at Camden, flying
13.6.65	noted at Camden, also 21.8.65
9.9.65	Port undercarriage collapsed on landing at Camden NSW. DCA accident report: "The pilot under instruction did not adequately correct a swing during a cross-wind landing and the aircraft ground-looped, collapsing the port undercarriage." Quickly repaired at Camden
18.9.65	noted at Camden
21.9.65	noted at Camden
25.12.65	Wrecked in forced landing in mangrove swamp, Tin Can Bay Qld. DCA accident report: "Engine power was lost due to the failure of a master connecting rod and the aircraft was committed to a forced landing in heavy timbered terrain." Aircraft flown by owner N.B.Cooper was en route Maryborough to Brisbane when lost all engine power. Wing torn away on impact and rear fuselage broke away, but the cabin section came to rest in the upright position. Cooper and three passengers received minor injuries. No flight plan had been submitted, so no search action. Occupants camped inside the wrecked cabin
28.12.67	Cooper crossed a creek in the swamp using a fuel tank as a float, then a six mile walk until he found a fisherman. A party then rescued the passengers after 4 day ordeal.
95	A party relocated the wreck site. Twisted metal framework only after being burnt in scrub fire
	The Warner Scarab engine from the wreck site was recovered and displayed at the Caboolture Warplane Museum by 1996

Bankstown 1953, light blue and white paint scheme. Photo by Eddie Coates

Tamworth NSW in the 1950s. Geoff Goodall collection

Grafton NSW in January 1964, "Grafton Air Taxi Service" titles. Photo by Dick Hourigan

Camden NSW February 1965, "Voice of Deliverance - Our God is Able". Geoff Goodall collection

Camden August 1965. Photo by Bob Livingstone

December 1965: Tin Can Bay accident scene being examined by DCA air safety invesitigators. Bob Livingstone collection

In 2016 the stripped frame of VH-AKZ still remained at the forced landing site Tin Can Bay, Queensland

Model F.24W-41 Argus I c/n 339 VH-ALF

.42	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co to USAAF order as a production Model 24W.41 with 175hp Warner Super Scarab series 50A radial.
	USAAF designation Fairchild UC-61-FA, serial 42-32134
	Transferred to Great Britain under Lend Lease
6.8.42	Taken on RAF charge as type Argus I serial FK330
6.8.42	Shipped from US to Great Britain on board S.S. Hindanger
21.8.42	Arrived England
8.42	Issued to Air Transport Auxiliary, No.1 Ferry Pool, White Waltham
12.45	Issued from ATA to No.5 (Training) Ferry Pool, Thame
18.4.47	Sold by RAF disposals to E. W. McClelland
10.5.47	Clearance for sale by USA Flying Club, USAAF Depot, Oberpfaffenhofen Air Base, West Germany. All RAF Argus postwar disposals were sold to USAFC as a paper transaction to satisfy Lend-Lease requirements
8.10.47	Registered G-AKJL VIP Services Ltd, London. Identity quoted as 42-32134
19.12.47	Change of ownership: Wing Commander Ronald Gustave Kellett DSO, DFC, Trafford Farm, Benenden, Kent. Kellett joined the RAF in 1933, flew in the record breaking RAF Wellesley long-range flight to Australia in 1938 and was a fighter ace during WWII. After the war he was CO of RAF 615 Squadron with Spitfires then Meteors before relinquishing his commission in October 1953.
2.1.48	US Export CofA issued (Paperwork exercise to allow British civil registration)
19.1.48	British CofA issued
13.12.50	Struck-off British Register as sold abroad
	Shipped to Australia, imported by Kingsford Smith Aviation Service, Sydney
	Assembled at Bankstown aerodrome, Sydney
18.7.51	Testflown after assembly
18.7.51	CofA issued
18.7.51	Registered VH-ALF Kingsford Smith Aviation Service Pty Ltd, Bankstown Aerodrome, Sydney NSW
1.8.51	Change of ownership: G. D. Maguire, "Lagonda", Tullamore NSW
by 55	Change of ownership: Thomas Spence, "Branga Downs" Station, via Corfield Qld
2.8.55	noted at Bankstown
9.6.55	Change of ownership: George D. Wentworth, "Belong", Coolah NSW Sqn Ldr G.D."Darcy" Wentworth was a RAAF Beaufighter pilot during WWII, becoming CO of two Beaufighter squadrons, first No.31 Squadron then No.30 Squadron.
29.3.66	noted at Mudgee under maintenance in a hangar
20.9.67	Struck-off Register as withdrawn from service
6.9.68	Restored to Register: Lithgow Air Park Pty Ltd, Lithgow NSW c/- Max Honeysett
27.9.68	noted at Mudgee NSW, in hangar having maintenance
19.5.73	noted at Lithgow NSW, white with blue trim
10.6.73	noted at Lithgow NSW, white with blue trim
.74	Ferried Lithgow to Wodonga Vic to be stored under cover at Joe Drage's museum
24.3.74	noted at Wodonga in Joe Drage's museum hangar, along with Max Honeysett's DH.60M Moth VH-UQV
1.4.74	Struck-off Register as withdrawn from service
.74	Purchased by Jim Williams, Melbourne Vic
1.10.74	Ferried Wodonga-Moorabbin by Jim Williams. Last flight for 3 years.
.74	dismantled for complete restoration, mostly at Williams' house at Keysborough near Moorabbin Airport
21.3.76	noted dismantled at Jim Williams' house at Keysborough, in garage and lounge room
30.1.77	noted at Moorabbin
.77	27 month rebuild completed, fitted with Warner Scarab engine from Cessna C34 VH-KWM. Painted in USAAC khaki with serial "42-32134", with "34" on nose cowling
11.3.77	Restored to Register: James T. Williams, Melbourne Vic
13.3.77	First test flight Moorabbin, after rebuild. Then based Moorabbin.
3.4.77	visited Sunbury Vic fly-in, USAAF scheme
10.4.77	visited Mittagong NSW for formation flying with Fairchild Ranger VH-ABZ
24.4.77	visited West Maitland NSW airshow
18.6.77	noted at Moorabbin
2.7.77	flew Moorabbin-Bendigo-Melton-Moorabbin, pilot Jim Williams
4.9.77	visited Nerrin Nerrin Vic fly-in
2.10.77	visited Kingaroy Qld fly-in
30.10.77	noted at Sunbury-Penfield Vic
12.11.77	visited Schofields NSW airshow
19.11.77	visited Point Cook Vic fly-in
2.12.77	flew at Sunbury Vic airshow. Now based here, owner is a LAME at Sunbury-Penfield
4.6.78	visited Shepparton Vic fly-in
2.12.78	flew at Sunbury Vic airshow
4.3.79	visited Ballarat Vic airshow
11.3.79	visited Albury NSW airshow
16.4.79	visited Bowral NSW fly-in
17.6.79	visited Wodonga Vic fly-in
5.11.79	noted at Bankstown
4.4.80	noted at Sunbury Vic, based here
5.4.80	visited Morwell Vic for fly-in, pilot Jim Williams
5.6.81	noted at Essendon Airport, Melbourne
18.7.81	Change of ownership: Ken E. Orrman, Shepparton Vic
18.1.86	Offered for sale at aircraft auction at Berwick Airfield Vic by Orrman: listed as "1935 model, only one of its type in Australia". Passed in at $96,000.
2.4.88	noted at Shepparton Vic
28.4.90	Change of ownership: John Gallagher, Sydney NSW. Based at Wedderburn airfield.
13.8.90	noted at Murwillumbah NSW, flying
17.8.90	noted at Wedderburn NSW, flying. Khaki USAAF scheme
8.90	temporarily painted in washable paint as "NC-747" for TV movie Half A World Away
26.4.91	visited Temora NSW airshow, pilot John Gallagher
	Paintwork changed from USAAC to USAAF khaki scheme "42-32134", "34" on nose and code letter "A" on tail.
15.3.92	visited Mittagong NSW airshow
c01	Ran off runway into drainage ditch at Wedderburn airstrip, undercarriage damaged. Repaired
	Current

Bankstown in 1955, in austere all silver finish. Photo by Eddie Coates

Lithgow NSW in May 1973. Photo by Geoff Goodall

Lithgow NSW in June 1973. Photo by Dave Eyre

The Warner Scarab radial fires up on a farm near Bendigo Vic, July 1977. Photo by Geoff Goodall

Owner Jim Williams taxying at Melton Vic, July 1977. Photo by Geoff Goodall

August 1990, as "NC-747M" in washable paint for a movie. Photo by Mike Madden

Avalon Vic repainted in USAAF markings as "42-32134/A". Photo by Barry Maclean

Model F.24W-41 Argus II c/n 856 VH-BLB

.43	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co to USAAF order as a production Model 24W.41A with 175hp Warner Super Scarab series 50A radial.
	USAAF designation Fairchild UC-61A-FA, serial 43-14892
	Transferred to Great Britain under Lend Lease
4.5.44	Taken on RAF charge as type Argus II serial HB619 Shipped to Great Britain
5.44	Issued to Martin Hearn Ltd. Martin Hearn Ltd at Hooton Park aerodrome, Cheshire were contractiors to RAF for aircraft overhauls and repairs. Following its aircraft work in WWII, the company turned to manufacturing buses and military vehicles, and Slingsby gliders
9.46	Ceased with Martin Hearn Ltd
23.9.46	Sold by RAF disposals to V. R. Miller
7.11.46	Clearance for sale by USA Flying Club, USAAF Depot, Oberpfaffenhofen Air Base, West Germany. All RAF Argus postwar disposals were sold to USAFC as a paper transaction to satisfy Lend-Lease requirements
27.11.46	US Export CofA issued (Paperwork exercise to allow British civil registration)
9.12.46	Registered G-AIXM Mrs Daphne Miller, Hadleigh, Suffolk
10.12.46	Application for civil CofA
18.12.46	CofA issued
8.7.47	Change of ownership: Mrs. Loreen Dimpfli, London
12.9.47	Flew in Cannes Air Rally, from Gatwick to Le Toussus, Lyon and Cannes, returned 15.9.47. Pilot A.K.Bower and navigators M.Fox outbound, Mrs. Ponzio for return Cannes to Gatwick
18.9.47	Flew Denham to White Waltham for Air Transport Auxiliary reunion, crew Mrs. Sylvia Edwards and Joan Naylor, both wartime ATA pilots
10.47	Log book quotes owner as Denham Air Services. Assumed agents for the owner
5.11.47	Change of ownership: J. J. Mackerey, East Lothian, Scotland
48	Logbook shows in the first year with businessman Mr. Mackerey, G-AIXM flew 150 hours from Perth, Scotland, mostly flown by pilot Piddocke
49-51	Logbook shows only occasional flights
8.51	noted at Scone airfield, Perth, Scotland, in hangar
29.1.52	Log book: last flight in UK: 35 minute local flight at Perth, Scotland
18.2.52	Struck-off Register, sold abroad
.52	Shipped to Australia, imported by Kingsford Smith Aviation Service, Sydney
6.6.52	Australian registration application: George L. Louez, Louez Bros & Co, Griffith NSW. Requested registration VH-GLL but DCA replied that it was not available, and instead allocated VH-BLB
	Application signed by Col Tobin. Assembled and Australian CofA inspection by LAME Col Tobin, Riverina Aircraft Service Pty Ltd, Albury NSW
29.9.52	Testflown Albury
29.9.52	CofA issued
28.9.52	Registered VH-BLB
15.2.57	Change of ownership: John Hankin, Sydney NSW
2.3.60	Change of ownership: William Walter, Sydney NSW
20.1.63	noted at Camden
10.3.63	noted at Bankstown, allover gloss white with bright orange and black trim. Also 26.10.63, 10.1.64, 22.5.64, 22.5.85
18.9.65	noted at Camden Airport NSW. Also 21.9.65, 7.9.66, 20.11.66, 23.1.67
20.2.70	Change of ownership: Barry W. Gash, Bowral NSW
12.9.76	noted at Mittagong NSW airfield in hangar. Based here, flies regularly
31.10.76	noted at Mittagong NSW airfield in hangar, white with orange, brown and black trim
24.4.77	visited West Maitland NSW airshow, same paint scheme but all white rear fuselage
29.9.77	noted Mittagong NSW in hangar
26.1.79	Change of ownership: W. A. McCulloch, Yowie Bay NSW
7.79	Major overhaul at Mudgee NSW.
24.8.79	noted at Mudgee on overhaul
10.4.80	Change of ownership reverted to: Barry W. Gash, Bowral NSW
17.4.80	noted at Mudgee in hangar
31.7.80	Change of ownership: Peter J. Budd, Murwillumbah NSW
7.8.80	Moved by road from Mudgee to Murwillumbah for storage until overhaul can be continued
3.81	noted at Murwillumbah airfield under overhaul by Mothcair Aviation
.81	CofA renewed, repainted blue and silver
28.11.81	noted at Archerfield, blue & silver
82	based Murwillumbah airfield, with Argus VH-AZL
28.7.83	noted at Murwillumbah
8.3.85	noted at Murwillumbah
24.11.85	noted at Casino NSW, blue and silver
12.8.90	noted at Murwillumbah Qld, flying. Blue and silver
27.4.91	visited Temoa NSW airshow
96	Report: based Murwillumbah, flown by Peter Budd. Maintained in excellent condition after reconditioning by Mothcair several years ago.
25.4.97	visited Cowra NSW airshow, blue & silver
22.1.00	Change of ownership: Philip L. Elliott & Ray Vuillerman, Caboolture Qld
29.2.01	Change of ownership: Kerry M. Mason, Pru Mason and Ray Vuillerman, Beachmere Qld
3.7.09	visited Bundaberg Qld airshow, blue and silver scheme
9.15	parked in hangar Caboolture Qld, unflown for several months while waiting for parts from USA
	Current

Bankstown 1955. Photo by Eddie Coates

Bankstown May 1965. John Hopton Collection

Arriving at an airshow at West Maitland NSW April 1977. Photo by Neville Parnell

Casino NSW in November 1985, with a new paint scheme. Photo by Ron Cuskelly

Bundaberg Qld in July 2009. Photo by Phil Vabre

Model F.24W-41 Argus II c/n 309 VH-AIO

.42	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co to USAAF order as a production Model 24W.41 with 175hp Warner Super Scarab series 50A radial.
	USAAF designation Fairchild UC-61A-FA, serial 42-13573
	Transferred to Great Britain under Lend Lease
8.5.42	Taken on RAF charge as type Argus II serial EV801 Shipped to Great Britain
5.42	Issued to Air Transport Auxiliary, White Waltham
11.45	Ceased with ATA, White Waltham
5.6.45	Sold by RAF disposals to USA Flying Club, USAAF Depot, Oberpfaffenhofen Air Base, West Germany. All RAF Argus postwar disposals were sold to USAFC as a paper transaction to satisfy Lend-Lease requirements
8.10.47	Registered G-AKJK VIP services Ltd, London
	No British CofA issued
26.2.48	Struck-off British Register as sold abroad
2.48	Registered VR-RBE M.T. Stanley, Kuala Lumpur Flying Club, Malaya
1.52	Purchased from KL Flying Club by Flt Lt. J. L. D. Whiteman, Sydney NSW
.52	Whiteman was an experienced military and civil pilot who rejoined the RAAF in 1951 and was posted to Malaya. In 1952 he wrote to Doug Fawcett of Fawcett Aviation, Bankstown whose Lodestars VH-FAB & FAC he flew on cargo charter work in 1950/51, asking him to find a buyer for a Fairchild Argus he had purchased in Kuala Lumpur. Fawcett wrote back saying he would buy it himself if the price was right and they agreed on the price.
5.52	"Wac" Whiteman travelled from Australia to Kuala Lumpur to collect the Fairchild. He was unable to get a military flight direct to Malaya, so took a No.38 Squadron Dakota to Hong Kong then hitched a ride on a RAF Sunderland to Singapore, where he got a ride on another RAAF Dakota to Kuala Lumpur.
5.52	Whiteman left Kuala Lumpur on the ferry flight to Australia, flying solo. First stop at Changi Airport, Singapore to install an electric fuel pump to the fuel line into the starboard wing tank, drawing fuel from 5 six-gallon drums of petrol in the cabin.
	Singapore-Palembang. Whiteman held by Indonesian officials because he did not have a permit to overfly Indonesia. He spent several days in Batavia to obtain the required permit
	Palembang-Sourabaya
	Next day Sourabaya-Bali. After refuelling departed for Koepang but had strong head winds so diverted to Sumbawau-Besar, which was a disused Japanese airfield during WWII. He was arrested by Indonesian soldiers and kept in a room with barred windows in their barracks for 3 days. Whiteman had been seen dropping an empty fuel drum into the sea shortly before, and he was suspected of dropping firearms to rebels in the area. His RAAF uniform was found in his luggage, confirming their belief he was a military agent or spy.
	Sumbawau-Besar - Koepang, Timor. 5 hrs 10 min leg, refuelling from the fuel drums in the cabin
c13.5.52	Left Koepang at 6am for Australia, several days after Martin Cherry had gone missing en route Timor-Darwin in his Percival Proctor G-ALSM. Whiteman was asked to keep a look out and because of headwinds he flew very low above the sea. 250 miles from Timor he sighted a floating bright blue seat cushion. He reported the sighting and DCA enquiries found that the interior of G-ALSM was red, however Cherry had borrowed a blue cushion for his wife to sit on prior to departing England.
c13.5.52	Arrived at Wyndham WA, flying time from Koepang 5 hrs 30 mins. The local policeman cleared the arrival on behalf of Australian Customs but instructed Whiteman to proceed to Darwin for formal Customs inspection, a 3 hour 30 minute detour.
	VR-RBE flew Darwin-Daly Waters-Cloncurry-Charleville-Roma-Archerfield-Coffs Harbour-Sydney
	Australian certification inspection by Fawcett Aviation, Bankstown
22.6.53	Australian Registration application: Airmech, Bankstown Airport, Sydney Airmech was an associate company of Fawcett Aviation
16.7.53	Testflown Bankstown, CofA issued
16.7.53	Registered VH-AIO
	Fawcett added the Fairchild to the fleet of his Illawarra Flying School, Bankstown Airport
	Doug Fawcett later wrote of the development of Illawarra Flying School in his book Pilots and Propellers : "Although we had the six Tiger Moths, it was obvious we needed some different types of aircraft to allow the pilots to further their experience. So we purchased, over a period, six Austers, a Chipmunk, and a Fairchild Argus plus the odd aircraft we kept for a short time. I traded my 30 foot DC-3 motor home for a three-seater high wing Desoutter and a Chrislea Super Ace"
1.9.55	Change of ownership: Kingsford Smith Aviation Service Pty Ltd, Bankstown Airport NSW
13.2.56	Change of ownership: Culgoa Aviation Pty Ltd, Dirranbandi Qld
9.6.58	Change of ownership: D. B. Harris, Tamworth NSW
1.10.58	Change of ownership: R. Fisher, Corryong Vic, t/a Corryong Air Taxi
22.5.59	Change of ownership: E. M. & N. B. North, Shepparton Vic, t/a Air Taxis Shepparton
19.9.61	Pilot log Roy Davenport, from 19.9.61 until 2.12.61: flew VH-AIO on charters from Shepparton to locations including Eildon, Benalla, Phillip Island, Horsham, Moorabbin, Griffith, Albury, Dookie, Wangaratta, Kerang.
10.11.61	noted at Shepparton in hangar, white with red trim, "Air Taxis Shepparton" titles
25.11.61	visited Horsham Vic airshow
23.2.62	visited Moorabbin Vic, white with red trim, "Air Taxis Shepparton" titles
16.3.62	visited Cootamundra NSW airshow
10.3.63	visited Morwell Vic airshow
3.3.64	visited Bendigo Vic airshow. White with red and black trim.
3.64	Scratched entry in Ansett Air Race Brisbane to Adelaide, entered by M. North
22.3.64	noted at Bendigo, white with red trim
7.11.64	noted at Shepparton
18.1.65	noted at Griffith NSW, arrived from Shepparton
24.6.65	noted at Camden NSW, white wih red trim. Up for sale.
18.9.65	noted at Camden
21.9.65	noted at Camden
24.10.65	noted at Camden, displayed at Royal Aeronautical Society garden party, new paint scheme of white with red trim
27.3.66	noted at Shepparton
5.66	Has been purchased by A. I. Tonkin of Onslow WA. Delivered from Shepparton to Onslow by a ferry pilot, who endorsed Tonkin on to the type on arrival at Onslow.
19.5.66	noted at Onslow
27.5.66	Change of ownership: A. Ian Tonkin, Onslow WA
25.11.66	Overturned in forced landing on beach Trimoulle Island WA. A high tide that night took the inverted aircraft into deeper water where it sank. The island was in the Monte Bello group, off the WA coast near Onslow. DCA accident report: "A substantial loss of engine power necessitated a forced landing on a beach which had marginal width and an excessive cross slope. During the landing run the port wheel sank in soft sand and the aircraft swung into the sea. The reason for the loss of power was not determined." Pilot Ian Tonkin and his passenger were unhurt.
14.12.66	Struck-off Register
67	The Fairchild was reported to be still visible under the water to overflying aircraft.
	Robin Miller wrote in her book Flying Nurse: "Once when flying fairly low over Exmouth Gulf I spotted a hut on one of the small islands in the area. I then noticed, under water on an offshore reef, the unmistakable shape of an aircraft. On landing at Onslow I was greeted by Ian Tonkin, local officer for DCA, to whom I excitedly conveyed this interesting information. It was no news to him. "I know", he said calmly, "It's my Fairchild". He told me that the hut, which I had seen had been occupied by a hermit who normally kept in regular radio touch with Port Hedland. When he missed several calls, Ian and a friend flew across and circled the island searching for him, during which manoeuvre the engine failed. Ian brought the aircraft down on a small, steeply-sloping beach, where she promptly rolled over on her back. The two men managed to scramble out just before she slid gracefully down into the water. They dived in an attempt to salvage some items from the cockpit, but got no more than the sodden log book before the plane sank still deeper into the water. They made for the hut, where they met the island hermit who told them casually "I'm OK. My radio has packed up - that's all."

VR-RBE in Malaya. Nigel Daw collection

VR-RBE at Kuala Lumpur with the Kuala Lumpur Flying Club. Geoff Goodall collection

VH-AIO in Illawarra Flying School red and white scheme, Bankstown 1955. Photo by Eddie Coates

Dirranbandi Qld c1958 with Cilgoa Aviation Pty Ltd. Greg Banfield collection

Corryong Vic in 1959, operated by Corrong Air Taxi. Peter Limon collection

Bankstown circa 1960, "North Bros Shepparton" Frank Walters collection

Visiting Moorabbin in February 1962, "Air Taxis Shepparton". Photo by John Hopton

At Bendigo Vic March 1964, same paint scheme but no company name. Photo by John Hopton

Camden NSW October 1965, just repainted in its final colour scheme. Photo by Dave Eyre

Model F.24W-41 Argus II c/n 314 VH-AVN

.42	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co to USAAF order as a production Model 24W.41 with 175hp Warner Super Scarab series 50A radial.
	USAAF designation Fairchild UC-61A-FA, serial 42-13578
	Transferred to Great Britain under Lend Lease
14.5.42	Taken on RAF charge as type Argus II serial EV806 Shipped to Great Britain
6.42	Issued to Air Transport Auxiliary, White Waltham
10.45	Ceased with ATA, White Waltham
6.6.47	Sold by RAF disposals to USA Flying Club, USAAF Depot, Oberpfaffenhofen Air Base, West Germany. All RAF Argus postwar disposals were sold to USAFC as a paper transaction to satisfy Lend-Lease requirements
8.10.47	Registered G-AKJM VIP Services Ltd, London
18.2.48	Change of ownership: Lawrence S. Dawson, Pool, Yorkshire
28.2.48	British CofA issued.
1.2.49	Change of ownership: W. S. Shckleton Ltd, London
	Sold to Kingsford Smith Aviation Service, Sydney
	Shipped to Australia
29.6.51	Struck-off British Register as sold abroad
	Assumed stored awaiting sale
29.10.52	Australian Registration application: Kingsford Smith Aviation Service Pty Ltd, Bankstown Aerodrome, Sydney NSW
1.7.53	Testflown Bankstown after assembly
22.7.53	Registered VH-AVN
	Flew with Kingsford Smith Aviation Service titles on fuselage and advertising for Sydney radio station 2UE and the Sun Herald newspaper
8.10.54	Change of ownership: Guinea Airways Ltd, Adelaide SA
10.6.55	Log book: Engine change at Mount Gambier SA
17.8.55	Log book: Ferry permit Mount Gambier-Parafield
5.11.55	Engine failure on newspaper delivery run from Adelaide to Mount Gambier, forced landing without damage. Guinea Airways Captain Desmond Gillespie.
14.12.55	Change of ownership: Tamworth Air Taxi Service, Tamworth NSW
1.3.56	Damaged at Gunnedah NSW on a charter flight. DCA accident report "Nearing completion of landing run the aircraft ran into a washaway not observed by the pilot."
1.7.57	Change of name: Tamair Pty Ltd, Tamworth NSW Used for general charter and newspaper delivery contracts, carrying Sydney papers from East West Airlines flights at Tamworth to Moree and other northern NSW towns.
31.3.58	Log book: Total time 2799 hours
28.4.59	Log book: Total time 3232 hours
8.7.59	Ground-loop on landing at Gunnedah NSW after a flight from Tamworth
1.9.59	Change of ownership: Mrs. Helen G. Fisher, Sydney NSW. (wife of Sydney doctor, pastoralist and aviation enthusiast Dr. Tony Fisher. He recalls purchasing the Fairchild from Sam Dodd who had trained him for his PPL)
23.10.60	noted at Camden NSW
26.10.60	Change of ownership: R. F. Lynch, Sydney NSW. Based at Camden, no radio fitted
10.60	Note: ownership originally changed to E. Veitch, Sydney on 26.10.60, but Veitch wrote to DCA stating that although he was instrumental in, and assisted the sale to Lynch, the aircraft was in fact purchased by Lynch of Chatwood Sydney and Veitch was not the owner. DCA back-dated the change of ownership to Lynch effective the same date 26.10.60.
31.3.62	noted at Bankstown, parked outside, white and red with black trim
30.5.62	Log book: total time 3547 hours
5.1.63	noted at Cootamundra NSW
9.1.63	noted at Cootamundra
21.1.64	Change of ownership: David L. Morris,"Mirrabooka" via Rylestone NSW
6.64	noted at Bankstown, red and white, flying
9.7.65	noted at Bankstown, in Ray & Larkin hangar for CofA renewal overhaul
27.7.65	Log book: total time: 3705 hours
1.66	visited Wagga NSW, white and red with black trim
29.1.66	noted at Bankstown, flying
5.6.66	noted at Bankstown
4.9.66	flew Bankstown-Camden
2.67	noted at Bankstown
67	Morris did not renew the aircraft's radio licence, resulting in the radio equipment was seized by the Postmaster General Department
4.68	noted on Morris' farm Rylestone, engine run up
4.8.69	Struck-off Register as withdrawn from service
69	Report the aircraft last flew in 1966, has been parked in a shed on the owner's farm at Rylestone NSW. The engine was due for a major overhaul in 1970.
29.3.77	Registration VH-AVN reserved on owner's request, pending the Fairchild's return to service.
6.78	Aircraft still on farm at Rylestone NSW. Engine was run up and aircraft in taxyable condition. Morris has medical problems and will not return it to airworthy condition at this time, but he is not interested in selling it.
85/95	Still stored in shed on Morris' farm at Rylestone NSW, wings removed
6.87	John Gallagher, Sydney (owner of -BVF & ADF) reports that he expects to commence a restoration project on VH-AVN on contract to its owner David Morris in 1988. Morris has a Cessna 182 which he flies regularly,
.95	Sold to Peter "Chooks" Fowler, Cootamundra NSW
	Peter Fowler killed when his Auster 3 VH-MBA painted as RAF NX500 crashed and burned at a private fly-in at Galore NSW on 31.8.97.
03	Reported still stored with Fowler family
	Compiler's note: This Fairchild is subject of erroneous reports in various sources: - Quoted as being registered NC74130 circa 1947, owner quoted as Claude R. Brown, Davenport , Washington The NC74... series was allocated to overseas based aircraft. NC74130 visited Croydon and Hamble in UK during 1950, and at Le Bourget, Paris on 1.7.53, by which time c/n 314 had been registered G-AKJM and then VH-AVN. - VH-AVN is erroneously quoted as being sold to France circa 1990 and registered F-AZCF. F-AZCF was an unidentified Fairchild 24W acquired by the J-B Salis Collection and restored at La Ferte Alais airfield near Paris, painted in blue scheme as "US Navy 43-14499". The only link to VH-AVN is the quoted identity "314". By 2013 F-AZCI was flying in camouflage as "AZ-CI"

Bankstown 1953, Kingsford Smith Aviation Service titles and advertising. Photo by Jim Dyson

Adelaide Airport 1955, "Guinea Airways Ltd SA State Uranium Survey". Rod Adam collection

Bankstown March 1962, red white and black, race number "6". Neil Follett collection

Visiting Wagga NSW in January 1966. Photo by Bob Neate

Engine run while retired at David Morris' farm, Rylestone NSW June 1978. Photo by John Gallagher

Model F.24W-41 Argus I c/n 360 VH-CMB

.42	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co to USAAF order as a production Model 24W.41 with 175hp Warner Super Scarab series 50A radial.
22.7.42	Accepted by USAAF: designation Fairchild UC-61-FA, serial 42-32155
	Transferred to Great Britain under Lend Lease
14.9.42	Taken on RAF charge as type Argus I serial FK351 Shipped to Great Britain
10.42	Issued to Air Transport Auxiliary, White Waltham
10.45	Ceased with ATA, White Waltham
10.12.46	Sold by RAF disposals to USA Flying Club, USAAF Depot, Oberpfaffenhofen Air Base, West Germany. All RAF Argus postwar disposals were sold to USAFC as a paper transaction to satisfy Lend-Lease requirements
5.11.47	Registered G-AJXA Denham Aero Club, Denham Aerodrome, Bucks
10.11.47	CofA issued
16.1.48	Change of ownership: Dennis B. Munro, Brighton, Sussex
4.51	noted at Somerton, Isle of Wight, in a hangar
20.11.51	Struck-off British Register, sold to Australia Note in hand-written Register page: "sold to Australia via W.S.Shackleton Ltd"
4.6.54	Registered VH-CMB Christey's Motors Pty Ltd, Sydney. Identity quoted incorrectly on Australian Register as "362"
4.6.54	Note in hand-written DCA Register ledger states "ex Singapore Aero Club and RAF"
5.12.55	Change of ownership: D. P. Kelly, Morwell Vic
15.8.56	Change of ownership: Culgoa Aviation Pty Ltd, Dirranbandi Qld
16.3.57	Crashed just after becoming airborne on takeoff Dirranbandi Qld on a charter flight
30.3.59	Change of ownership: Coadair Charter Services, Taree NSW c/- John Coad
17.4.62	Change of ownership: Aerial Stock and Property Sales, Beckom NSW
10.1.63	noted at Bankstown
1.64	noted at Temora NSW
29.3.64	Departed Archerfield Qld in Ansett Air Race to Adelaide, race #165, flown by A. S. Hayes. Completed the race at Parafield 31.3.65. White, blue and silver paint scheme, with advertising for "His Masters Voice TVs"
18.7.64	noted at Parkes NSW, silver and blue
11.64	noted at Bankstown, flying. Blue, white and silver.
2.2.65	noted at Wagga NSW
28.3.65	visited Bathurst NSW airshow
12.8.65	arrived Wagga NSW from Beckom
25.9.65	noted at Bankstown, in Ray & Larkin hangar
30.10.65	visited Wagga NSW airshow
9.3.66	arrived at Wagga NSW for a visit
3.9.66	noted at Parkes NSW on overhaul and engine change
9.9.66	visited Parafield SA airshow
13.10.68	noted at Bankstown, same white, blue and silver scheme
4.1.70	noted at Parkes NSW
24.8.71	Change of ownership: Graham R. Taylor, Young NSW
6.73	noted on owner's property near Young NSW. Same white, blue and silver paint scheme
3.75	Owner's address changed to Public School, Bogan Gate NSW
76	Overhaul at Griffith NSW
78	Owner's address changed to Cambawarra NSW
2.5.78	Change of ownership: Malcolm J. Long, Melbourne Vic, later Coolangatta Qld
29.7.78	noted at Moorabbin Vic
10.78	noted at Moorabbin being repainted into a military scheme for Malcolm Long
1.12.78	noted at Moorabbin, all silver, RAF Pacific roundels "FK351", small VH-CMB on top of tail
3.12.78	visited Sunbury Vic airshow, all silver, RAF Pacific roundels "FK351"
11.2.79	visited Lilydale Vic airshow
11.3.79	visited Berwick Vic airshow, silver "FK351"
18.8.79	Three of Malcolm Long's aircraft departed Moorabbin for 2 day ferry flight to Coolangatta Qld where he will now base his fleet: Fairchild VH-CMB, Auster AOP.3 VH-BED & Stinson L-5 VH-BFR all painted in military markings
8.79	now displayed at Chewing Gum Field Air Museum, Tallebudgera Qld with the rest of Malcolm Long's military aircraft collection.
23.4.80	noted at Chewing Gum Field Air Museum, Tallebudera Qld. "FK351"
14.8.80	noted at Chewing Gum Field Air Museum, Tallebudera Qld
4.83	Advertised for sale. Not flown for several years. Not sold
28.7.83	noted at Chewing Gum Field Air Museum, Tallebudera Qld
.85	Malcolm long moved his aircraft collection from CGFAM to Drage Airworld, Wangaratta Vic
.85	VH-CMB ferried from CGFAM to Coolangatta Airport, then to Wangaratta Vic
17.3.86	noted at Drage Airworld, Wangaratta Vic, now painted khaki with Pacific roundel "FK351". Also 12.1.90.
24.10.92	visited Avalon Vic airshow, khaki with Pacific roundel "FK351"
c94	Change of ownership: Steve Newing, Tyabb Vic, later Gatton Qld
26.3.95	visited Avalon Vic airshow "US Navy 2F4", silver fuselage, yellow wings, red tail
22.4.95	visited Cowra NSW fly-in, "US Navy 2F4", silver fuselage, yellow wings, red tail
5.10.02	visited Echuca Vic fly-in
18.1.04	noted at Tyabb Vic "US Navy 2F4", silver fuselage, yellow wings, red tail
29.2.04	visited Point Cook Vic airshow. "US Navy 2F4", silver fuselage, yellow wings, red tail
6.2.05	noted Bairnsdale airshow
9.3.08	noted at Clifton Qld, owned Steve Newing
26.4.08	visited Temora NSW fly-in, "US Navy 2F4", silver fuselage, yellow wings, red tail
30.8.08	visited Watts Bridge Qld fly-in, "US Navy 2F4", silver fuselage, yellow wings, red tail
13	Undergoing strip down and rebuild by owner Steve Newing at Gatton Airpark Qld. Repainted in civil red colour scheme.
	Note: cockpit plate inspected: "Fairchild C-61 42-32155 FK351 Date Accepted 7.22.42"
17.8.19	Change of ownership: Jessica A.Bailey, Brisbane Qld
	Current

At Shoreham, England prior to sale to Australia. Photo by Dave Freeman

Bankstown c1954. Barrie Colledge collection

Diranbandi Queensland March 1957, with Culgoa Aviation. Greg Banfield collection

Parafield 31 March 1964, at the end of the Ansett Air Race, Brisbane to Adelaide. Photo by Geoff Goodall

Bankstown November 1964. Photo by Dave Eyre

VH-CMB at Moorabbin December 1978, now painted as RAF FK351. Photo by Dave Prossor

VH-CMB displayed at Drage Air Word, Wangaratta January 1990. Photo by Geoff Goodall

VH-CMB arrives at the annual Watts Bridge Qld fly-in August 2008. Photo by Bert van Drunick

VH-CMB in a striking new paint scheme. visiting a fly-in at Gatton Qld in April 2021. Photo by Ian McDonell

Model F.24W-41 Argus II c/n 837 VH-DDG , VH-EMF, VH-EMP

.44	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co to USAAF order as a production Model 24W.41A with 175hp Warner Super Scarab series 50A radial.
	USAAF designation Fairchild UC-61A-FA, serial 43-14873
	Transferred to Great Britain under Lend Lease
27.4.44	Taken on RAF charge as type Argus II serial HB600 Shipped to great Britain
5.44	Issued to Air Transport Auxiliary, White Waltham
9.45	Ceased with ATA, White Waltham
2.5.46	Sold by RAF disposals to VIP Services Ltd, London
10.4.47	Clearance for sale by USA Flying Club, USAAF Depot, Oberpfaffenhofen Air Base, West Germany. All RAF Argus postwar disposals were sold to USAFC as a paper transaction to satisfy Lend-Lease requirements
15.5.47	Registered G-AJSG Leslie D. Hawthorn, Fernham, Surrey Hawthorn also owned two other Argus G-AKFN & G-AJSH
47	Civil conversion carried out by West London Aero Services at White Waltham aerodrome, which did CofA overhuls for many RAF disposals Fairchilds in this period
25.9.47	CofA issued
	Flown by English Formula One racing car driver Mike Hawthorn, who reportedly used this Fairchild and a Percival Vega Gull to attend race meetings in Britain and the Continent.
8.50	Blackbushe report: G-AJSG was in the Silver City Airways hangar with two other Fairchilds
27.9.54	Struck-off British Register, sold to Australia
	Shipped to Australia
	Assembled at Bankstown. Probably imported by Kingsford Smith Aviation Service (unconfirmed)
10.1.55	Registered VH-DDG David Gray & Co, Perth WA
18.1.57	DCA incident report: Landed Meektharra after last light on a VFR flight
5.4.58	DCA incident report: Tailwheel detached on the airfield at Maylands Aerodrome, Perth. Pilot Gray
10.5.58	DCA incident report: local flight at Maylands
24.5.58	Change of ownership: Berrinvale Grazing Co, "Hill Springs" Station, via Carnarvon WA Manager of Berrinvale Pastoral Co was Mr. E. M. Fitzgerald
24.5.58	Reregistered VH-EMF
30.6.58	DCA incident report: Flew Minilya Station to Carnarvon, rough running engine en route but landed safely. Pilot E. M. Fitzgerald
13.2.59	Change of ownership: B. R. Galt, Sydney NSW Traded to Galt for his Cessna 182 VH-REH which was reregistered VH-EMF 15.3.59
15.3.59	Reregistered VH-EMP
15.2.60	Change of ownership: E. Rouse, G. Wallace, M. Myers, Melbourne Vic
12.6.60	Flew from Moorabbin to Packenham Vic, dropping parachutists at championships
27.10.60	noted at Moorabbin, outside
9.2.61	Change of ownership: G. Wallace & M. Myers, Melbourne Vic
28.5.61	noted outside at Moorabbin, Paintwork described as overall turquoise with white trim.
28.2.62	Struck-off Register as withdrawn from service
62/65	Parked complete in hangar at Moorabbin, green and silver.
23.1.64	noted at Moorbbin in hangar, engine being worked on
13.1.65	Restored to Register: Fairchild Group, Melbourne Vic
13.1.65	Struck-off Register back-dated to same day
19.11.65	noted at Moorabbin, outside having engine runs after lengthy maintenance
65/66	Parked complete in hangar at Moorabbin, green and silver.
5.4.67	Restored to Register: John V. McDonald, Melbourne Vic McDonald is the survivor of the previous syndicate, which split up.
5.11.67	noted at Healesville Vic, dismantled at McDonald's house. Fuselage was under a tarpaulin, wings stacked against a shed. Green and silver. Jack McDonald intended to start a restoration but it remained unmoved in storage.
18.10.73	Struck-off Register at owner's request
	remained stored dismantled at Healesville Vic. Occasionally advertised for sale.
11.00	Advertised for sale: dismantled, 35 years in dry storage: Frank McDonald, Healesville Vic
.00	Sold to New Zealand to David Marwick & Joanna Carson, Blenheim NZ
3.01	VH-EMP stripped fuselage standing on its gear in hangar at Belheim-Omaka airport
9.04	Advertised for sale as a restoration project, located NZ "100% complete project. Very sound condition. Built 1943 TT1026 hours. Ex RAF warbird. Complete log books. Warner Super Scarab 165 engine complete. Many spare engine parts with logs. 2 props Aeromatic and DH. Only Fairchild 24 in NZ."
.09	Purchased by Graham Orphan, Omaka NZ
	Stored at Omaka pending restoration
4.14	Airworthy restoration commenced at Omaka NZ in the Classic Wings hangar for Graham Orphan. The fuselage had previously been stripped down to bare metal fuselage frame. Work began on deteriorated belly woodwork including cockpit floor panels
1.18	Airframe restoration completed at Omaka, ready for fabric covering.to be applied
14.1.20	Allocated NZ registration ZK-AUN. Graham Orphan requested this registration, which had been reserved on 3 May 1950 for NZ company Aircraft Services Ltd for a Fairchild 24 planned to be imported to NZ from England. The deal was not completed and the reservation was cancelled 1 March 1951.

G-AJSG at Shoreham, England in 1948. Photo by Dave Freeman

VH-DDG at Bankstown early 1955 soon after it was assembled. Photo by Eddie Coates

Maylands Aerodrome, Perth in May 1958. Geoff Goodall collection

Dropping skydivers at Packenham Vic 1963. Photo by Neil Follett

Classic Wings magazine, November 2000

The rebuild of VH-EMP progresses at Omaka NZ in January 2018 Photo by Graham Orphan

Omaka March 2021. Photo by Graham Orphan

VH-EMP restoration nearing completion as ZK-AUN at Omaka NZ in Juy 2021. Photo by Graham Orphan

Model F.24W-41 Argus II c/n 306 VH-AZL

26.3.42	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co to USAAF order as a production Model 24W.41 with 175hp Warner Super Scarab series 50A radial.
	USAAF designation Fairchild UC-61-FA, serial 42-38862
	Transferred to Great Britain under Lend Lease.
8.5.42	Taken on RAF charge as type Argus II serial EV798 Shipped to Great Britain
5.42	Issued to Air Transport Auxiliary, White Waltham
10.45	Ceased at ATA
16.7.47	Sold by RAF disposals to by USA Flying Club, USAAF Depot, Oberpfaffenhofen Air Base, West Germany. All RAF Argus postwar disposals were sold to USAFC as a paper transaction to satisfy Lend-Lease requirements
23.7.47	Registered G-AKCJ Air Navigation and Trading Co Ltd, Blackpool
4.7.49	CofA issued
1.51	Report: Air Navigation and Trading Co Ltd was founded by R.L.Whyham at Squires Gate airfield, Blackpool. Current fleet 4 Rapides, 3 Avro 19s, 2 Austers, 1 Proctor and 3 Fairchild Argus including G-AKCJ
26.9.51	Struck-off Register, sold to Australia
29.9.51	G-AKCJ arrived at Croydon Airport, London from the north
10.51	G-AKCJ noted at Croydon where it had just been given an overhaul by Field Aircraft Services. Plate was reported as "853"
.51	Flown from Croydon to Hanworth by Brian Stead, aircraft salesman for R.K.Dundas Ltd. Packed for shipping at Hanworth
	Shipped to Sydney, then transported by road to Parkes NSW
	Assembled at Parkes by owner Jack Hodder
18.1.56	Registered VH-AZL John D. Hodder, Parkes NSW Hodder was an licenced aviation engineer who had a maintenance business at Parkes
29.3.58	Change of ownership: John K. Bryant, Murwillumbah NSW
23.9.64	noted at Archerfield
20.11.66	noted at Murwillumbah NSW in a shed
26.9.70	noted at Parkes NSW
12.6.75	noted at Tygalgah NSW near Murwillumbah. Kept here in a hangar
18.8.76	noted at Tygalgah NSW, flying
29.9.76	noted at Lismore NSW, departed to Murwillumbah flown by John Bryant
5.6.77	noted at Murwillumbah NSW fly-in
2.10.77	visited Kingaroy Qld fly-in
22.4.78	visited Chewing Gum Field Air Museum opening day fly-in
28.5.78	visited Gatton Qld fly-in
10.78	Dismantled at Tygalgah, moved by road to John Bryant's woodmill in the town of Murwillumbah. Extensive restoration and repair of some corrosion.
4.80	Fuselage moved from woodmill to Murwillumbah airfield where placed in Challinor brothers' hangar for further restoration
23.4.80	noted at Murwillumbah airfield, fuselage in hangar
14.8.80	noted at Murwillumbah airfield, under rebuild
80	Fairchild Plate in cockpit: "UC-61 41-38862 Built 26.3.42 EV798" Another plate in cockpit: "Manufacturers Serial: 306"
81	rebuild completed, aircraft flying. Repainted red and white.
14.3.81	flew from home base Tygalgah to Murwillumbah airfield to meet visiting Harry Macintosh and his wife in Fairchild 24R G-BCBH
82	now based at Murwillumbah airfield, flown regularly by John Bryant
7.7.86	Change of ownership: G.S. Mildren, Barnawartha Vic
1.6.92	Change of ownership: Terry Edwards & Richard Wilshire, Gerogery via Albury NSW Wilshire is an aircraft engineer working at Hoxton Park airfield near Sydney
10.4.93	Mangalore airshow
7.12.97	noted at Mittagong NSW, red and white
7.00	Advertised for sale:1400 hours total time, currently flying based in NSW: apply Terry
3.12.02	Change of ownership: Paul A. Lucas, Hong Kong. Based at Tyabb airfield Vic
27.12.02	Ferried from Hoxton Park-Mittagong-Wangaratta. Continued to Tyabb next day
10.5.03	noted at Tyabb
24.2.04	Change of ownership: Paul Lucas/ Three Point Aviation Pty Ltd, Hong Kong / Melbourne Vic.
2007-2011	Based at Caboolture Qld
4.11	Forced landing in a field near Wamuran Qld due engine failure. No airframe damage. Paul Lucas had just departed Caboolture on a ferry flight to new base at Tyabb Vic.
4.11	Wings removed on site and aircraft moved to Caboolture airfield by truck.
	The Warner Scarab engine was sent to USA for rebuild, due back at Caboolture 12.13 when aircraft will be testflown then ferried to Tyabb by Paul Lucas.
20.2.22	Change of ownership: Peter P. Ruwald, Murrumbateman NSW
	Current

Blackpool-Squires Gate aerodrome, England in August 1949. Photo by R. A.Schofield

Bankstown in the late 1950s. Ed Coates Collection

Lismore NSW in September 1976. Photo by Mike Vincent

Caboolture Qld 2008. Photo by Paul Lucas

Forced landing near Wamuran Qld in April 2011. Photo by Paul Lucas

Wings removed on site before the Faichild was trucked to Caboolture. Photo by Paul Lucas

Model F.24W-41 Argus II c/n 839 VH-UEL

.44	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co to USAAF order as a production Model 24W.41A with 175hp Warner Super Scarab series 50A radial.
	USAAF designation Fairchild UC-61A-FA, serial 43-14875
	Transferred to Great Britain under Lend Lease
27.4.44	Loaded on board SS Empire Lord in USA, crated for shipment to Great Britain
27.4.44	Taken on RAF charge as type Argus II serial HB602 Shipped to Great Britain
5.44	Issued to Air Transport Auxiliary, White Waltham
20.11.45	Allotted to No.43 Maintenance Group ex ATA
5.12.45	Allotted to No.22 Maintenance Unit, RAF Silloth, placed in storage for disposal
2.5.46	Sold by RAF disposals to VIP Services Ltd, London
10.4.47	Clearance for sale by USA Flying Club, USAAF Depot, Oberpfaffenhofen Air Base, West Germany. All RAF Argus postwar disposals were sold to USAFC as a paper transaction to satisfy Lend-Lease requirements
5.9.47	Registered G-AKFN Air Tech Ltd, Thame
10.11.47	Change of ownership: Leslie D. Hawthorn, Farnham, Surrey
3.2.49	CofA issued Leslie D. Hawthorn, Farnham, Surrey
27.9.49	noted at Blackbushe
8.50	Blackbushe report: G-AKFN was in the Silver City hangar with two other Fairchilds
18.9.53	Change of ownership: Stanley V. Parkin, Plemont, Jersey
7.5.55	participated in the International Air Rally at Jersey
9.10.55	Change of ownership: John D. Habin, Southampton
4.56	noted at Eastleigh Airport, Southampton under overhaul
23.7.56	Change of ownership: Eric F. Auchin, Birmingham
3.58	G-AKFN is based at Elmdon, with four other Fairchild 24s
27.4.58	G-AKFN noted at Oxford-Kidlington, hangared
21.7.58	G-AKFN noted at Oxford-Kidlington
28.2.59	G. P. Truscott, Darwin wrote to DCA: he plans to have Fairchild G-AKFN flown to Australia on delivery to him. It will be registered on his behalf by Travelair Ltd, London and he plans to have it flown to Australia under Australian registration by Mr. Whyham, who wishes to depart immediately. Truscott explained to DCA that he wanted the Australian registration applied for the delivery flight because payments he has already made in England include the repainting of the Australian registration. Also he has heard reports from others who have ferried aircraft from England to Australia that Australian markings are "preferrable to British markings from a political point of view in Middle East, Indonesia, Burma etc." The letter also mentioned that Mr. Whyham would pick up a Drover in Australia and fly it back to UK.
3.59	DCA replied, agreeing to the delivery flight under Australia CofR and CofA. Allocated registration VH-UEJ
9.3.59	Change of ownership: Travelair Ltd, London
30.4.59	G-AKFN noted at Fairoaks Aerodrome
4.59	Change of ownership: Miss R. Kirby, Dover
8.5.59	Civil Aviation Liaison Officer, Australia House, London advises DCA: VH-UEJ is to be flown to Australia by Miss R. Kirby who carried out a similar delivery flight to Australia some years ago. She prefers to retain the British registration for the flight.
19.5.59	Change of ownership: George P. Truscott, Darwin NT
24.5.59	G-AKFN departed Squires Gate on first stage of delivery flight to Australia
23.6.59	G-AKFN cleared British Customs at Lympne on departure on delivery flight to Australia, pilot Miss R. Kirby
23.6.59	Undercarriage damaged landing at Toussus-le-Noble, France. The repairs and installation of an auxiliary fuel tank were not approved by the British CAA
2.12.59	DCA memo: The allocated registration VH-UEJ is not permitted because this has previously belonged to an aircraft involved in an accident. VH-UEL has been allocated instead. (Compiler’s note: this was a spasmodically applied DCA internal policy: the previous aircraft was DH.50 VH-UEJ which had crashed 9 June 1932! In May 1963 DCA forgot their earlier qualms and allocated VH-UEJ to a Champion 7FC.)
7.12.59	Civil Aviation Liaison Officer, London advises DCA: "An attempt was made to fly the aircraft to Australia but this was not successful and my last advice was that it was to be shipped from Beirut."
18.12.59	Memo from DCA SA/NT Region to Head Office: "The importer of this aircraft, Mr.G.P. Truscott appears somewhat vague concerning the whereabouts of this aircraft, It would appear that the aircraft is impounded in Beirut due to the inability to obtain clearances." Truscott indictated that the aircraft would probably be dismantled and shipped from Beirut or Port Said to Sydney.
9.6.60	Ministry of Civil Aviation, London wrote to DCA: G-AKFN is presently at Beirut in unairworthy condition. This aircraft had departed the United Kingdom in June 1959 on delivery flight to Australia, pilot Miss R. Kirby. Undercarriage was damaged on landing at Toussus-le-Noble. The repairs and installation of an auxiliary fuel tank were not approved or certified. On reaching Beirut, several flights were made to Cyprus and local flying. Since then the aircraft has been standing in the open at Beirut. The Ministry of Aviation instructed its Air Registration Board surveyor in Beirut that the aircraft is not to fly pending a review of its British CofA.
22.9.60	Civil Aviation Liaison Officer, London advises DCA that G-AKFN is to be shipped from Beirut to Australia
16.10.60	Struck-off British Register, transferred to Australian Register
24.11.60	Registered VH-UEL G. P. Truscott, A. Hamrozi and J. Lawrie, Darwin NT
	Location of Australian certification inspection not known
9.61	VH-UEL noted at Darwin Airport
3.62	flew Darwin-Adelaide-Melbourne-Sydney and return to Darwin
3.62	noted at Adelaide Airport SA
3.62	noted at Moorabbin Airport, Melbourne
3.62	noted at Bankstown Airport, Sydney
19.5.62	Overturned in forced landing 15 miles south of Darwin NT. DCA Accident report: "The aircraft overturned during a forced landing on boggy ground. The forced landing was due to engine power failure, the cause of which was not determined." Pilot Tony Hamrozi received minor injuries, was PPL aged 32, TT 226 hrs, on this type 73 hrs. Two passengers received minor injuries. When the engine failed near Howard Springs, the only landing site clear of bush fires was a soft marsh
11.6.62	Wreck of VH-UEL noted at Darwin Airport, in hangar
27.11.62	Struck-off Register

At Kidlington Airport, Oxford England on 21 July 1958. Photo by Peter Clarke

Visiting Adelaide Airport in March 1962. Photo by Bob Wiseman

At Bankstown in March 1962. John Hopton Collection

At the crash site, in a swamp south of Darwin, May 1962. Geoff Goodall collection

3) TWO LATER IMPORTS: one from South Africa vIa England, the other from USA

Model F.24R-46A Argus III c/n 975 VH-AAQ

.44	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co to USAAF order as a production Model 24R with 200hp Ranger 6.440C-5 in line engine
	USAAF designation Fairchild UC-61K-FA, serial 43-15011
	Transferred to Great Britain under Lend Lease
.44	Taken on RAF charge as type Argus III serial HB737 Shipped to North West Africa
.44	HB737 was one of eight from this order shipped to North West Africa for RAF
.46	Registered as Argus 3 ZS-AXH Commercial Air Services, Johannesburg, South Africa Type given as a Fairchild 24R-46A, which in fact indicates a postwar civil production model. This type designation remained with the aircraft when registered in Britain and Australia.
.46	One of 10 Argus III purchased from US Foreign Liquidation Commission by Commercial Air Services. They were ferried from Cairo, Egypt to Rand Airport, Johannesburg in 5.46
.59	Change of ownership: H. Picker, Johannesburg
3.66	Log book: total airframe time 920 hours
2.71	Purchased by Harry Mackintosh, Johannesburg Mackintosh was an Australian at that time working in South Africa. He purchased ZS-AXH which was retired and stored at Brakpan-Benoni airfield near Johannesburg. Logs showed total airframe time 945:20 hours.
5.71	CofA renewed. Flown locally by Makintosh.
.71	Late in year Mackintosh left South Africa to work in England.
.73	ZS-AXH was shipped from South Africa to England. Assembled and given an extended overhaul by Light Plane Services
13.3.74	Registered as Fairchild 24R-46A G-BCBH Harold J. & Adrianne R. Mackintosh, London
5.5.75	Change of ownership: Aeromac Ltd, London
6.4.78	Change of ownership: Adrianne R. Mackintosh, London
78	Rebuild completed
4.1.79	Change of ownership: Anna Bowes, London. Still operated by Harry Mackintosh
79	Based at Biggin Hill, attended numerous aviation events in UK, flew 50 hours that year
80	Mackintosh had G-BCBH shipped to Australia where he would be based for the next few years.
17.11.80	G-BCBH left Biggin Hill by road, dismantled in a container.
12.80	Shipped to Australia
2.81	Container arrived at Berwick airfield, Victoria and aircraft assembled
3.81	Harry Mackintosh flew G-BCBH from Victoria to Lismore NSW where he stayed several weeks
14.3.81	Flew Lismore-Murwillumbah NSW for a fly-in. Argus VH-AZL visited and Argus VH-BLB was in the hangar. G-BCBH log inspected : total airframe times 1045 hours
15.3.81	Flown from Murwillumbah to Gatton Qld by Mackintosh. For the rest of that year G-BCBH was based at the Orphan family farm airstrip Stamford Hill Aerodrome, Grantham, near Gatton
5.4.81	G-BCBH visited RAAF Amberley Qld airshow, white & yellow
4.81	G-BCBH noted at Maroochydore Qld
10.4.81	Mackintosh wrote to the Department of Aviation advising that he would apply to register G-BCBH in Australia. He requested VH-AXH be reserved but the Department replied that it was not available. He then requested a "period" registration for the Fairchild and VH-AAQ was reserved.
20.4.81	G-BCBH noted at Archerfield Airport, Brisbane, parked outside
12.1.82	Struck-off British Register, transferred to Australian Register
16.4.82	Registered VH-AAQ Harry J. Mackintosh, Melbourne Vic
5.2.83	VH-AAQ noted at Riddels Creek Vic, parked in hangar
.83	Crated and shipped back to UK
28.6.83	Struck-off Australian Register
11.10.83	Restored to British Register G-BCBH Bluegale Ltd, London c/- Harry J. Mackintosh Based at Biggin Hill
26.8.85	G-BCBH visited airshow West Malling, same white & yellow paint scheme as in Australia
24.6.89	Damaged in forced landing Lydd
14.8.92	Change of ownership: Ebork Ltd, London c/- Harry J. Mackintosh
98	Report: Harry Mackintosh flying G-BCBH regularly, based at Biggin Hill. He often visits the Continent
29.10.01	Change of ownership: Dreamticket Promotions Ltd, London
	Attends numerous events in Great Britain and Europe, white with yellow trim.
	Current

G-BCBH visiting an airshow at RAAF Amberley Qld in April 1981. Photo by Ron Cuskelly

Riddles Creek Vic in February 1983, repainted that day as VH-AAQ. Photo by Roger McDonald

G-BCBH in England after a 2016 repaint in wartime RAF markings as HB737 with USAAF serial 43-15011 under the windscreen.

Photo by Harry Mackintosh, via Graham Orphan

Model F.24W-46 Argus I c/n W46.348 N77648, VH-EFW

9.1.47	Built at Hagerstown, Maryland by Fairchild Engine and Airplane Co in the postwar production line for civil sales
.47	Registered NC77648
49	Reregistered N77648
63/67	Owner Frederick F. Phinney, Los Angeles California (last FAA annual inspection 9.58)
69/72	Owner Harold J. Kendrick, Grand Junction, Colorado
77	Owner Gordon Lueders, Marina del Rey, California
90	Owner Al Ball, Santa Paula, California
10.90	Purchased from Al Ball by Nigel & Alanna Arnot, Camden NSW, later Brisbane Qld. Aircraft was complete but had not flown for 8 years and required complete restoration
12.3.91	Struck-off US Civil Register
	Shipped to Australia, stored in hangar at Camden NSW
10.6.94	N77648 noted at Camden NSW, in hangar, dismantled, stripped fuselage frame, yellow
95	Nigel Arnot has commenced restoration, fabric stripped from fuselage at Camden. Warner Scarab will go to a radial engine overhaul specialist.
96	stored at Camden NSW in back of hangar, standing on wheels with wings removed
	N77648 noted Camden, standing on wheels without wings or engine. Requires overhaul, new fabric and overhaul of the Warner Scarab engine
1.98	noted at Camden, standing on wheels, fuselage has new fabric covering painted burgundy red. Owned Nigel Arnot.
02-14	Under restoration at Archerfield in Flying Fighters Museum hangar. Standing on its own undercarriage, overhaulled Warner Scarab engine installed, no prop.
	NC77648 was sold as a partly-restored project
.18	Purchased "as is" by Steve Hart, Brisbane Qld.
.18	Moved late 2018 from Hart's Flying Fighters hangar to Kim Rolph-Smith's hangar at Archerfield where restoration continues
15.6.22	Registered VH-EKW: Allan E. Buckley, Hollywell Qld
.22	First flight Archerfield following restoration
	Current

N77648 under restoration at Archerfield Qld during 2003. Photo by Graham Orphan

* * * * * *

A New Zealand Connection?
Only two Fairchilds were flown in New Zealand, both F.24W Warner Scarab powered Argus models, ZK-ASZ & ZK-AUW imported from Britain. Both were written-off in accidents.

ZK-AUW (c/n 352 ex G-AJPA, FK343, 42-32147) was registered in July 1951 by Air Contracts of Masterton but crashed at Martinburgh NZ only a year later on 3 July 1951. It is reported that parts survived in NZ until moved to Australia for an unidentified Australian Fairchild restoration project

Fairchilds used by RAAF in Middle East during WWII:
Royal Australian Air Force fighter units operating in Middle East theatres during WWII were loaned several RAF Fairchild Argus:

RAF Argus Mk.1 HK948 was a squadron hack with RAAF 451 Sqn at Mursa Matra, Egypt during 1943.
Photo courtesy Ed Russell

References:

- Australian Civil Aircraft Register, Department of Civil Aviation, Melbourne and its successors

- DCA aircraft files, National Archives of Australia, Melbourne

- DCA Annual Aircraft Accident Summaries 1956-1970

- RAAF Status Cards, A36- series, RAAF Historical, Dept of Defence, Canberra

- National Library of Australia - Trove newspaper archive website

- Aircraft in Australia, Fairchild 24 Series: John Hopton, incomplete draft, 30 November 1999

- Aviation Historical Society of Australia Journal, monthly, various issues 1960-1970

- Australian Air Log, monthly journal, various issues 1965-1968

- The Fairchild 24 in Australia, Man and Aerial Machines quarterly, T.W.Boughton, No.59 & 63 (1996/7)

- Civil Aviation Authority G-INFO database for British civil aircraft: www.caa.co.uk

- British Civil Aircraft since 1919, Volume 2, A. J. Jackson, Putnam, London 1973

- US Civil Aircraft, Vol.8, Fairchild 24 series, Joseph P. Juptner, Aero Publishers, 1981

- The British Air Commission and Lend-Lease, K. J. Meekcoms, Air Britain 2000

- There and Back, Allan Randall: Wac Whiteman's ferry flight in VR-RBE

- Pilots and Propellers, Doug Fawcett, Crawford House Publishing, Bathurst,1997

- Flying Nurse, Robin Miller, Rigby 1971

- Early Flying Days Recalled, J.P.Kellow, Classic Wings Down Under magazine, April/May 1999

- Flight Path magazine, Melbourne, various references to Fairchild restoration projects

- Classic Wings Downunder magazine, renamed Classic Wings, editor Graham M. Orpha: numerous references

to Australian Fairchilds. Also personal correspondence with Graham Orphan

- Rag & Tube, monthly journal of Antique Aeroplane Association of Australia, 1977 onwards

- The Flying Caseys, Neil Follett, Flightpath magazine, Vol.24 No.2, November 2012

- Alan Bovelt: research listings 1966-1975 on operators and aircraft in Papua New Guinea

- Official file correspondence between Department of Air, The Air Board and DCA re impressment of

civil aircraft for RAAF use during WWII: transcribed and edited by John Hopton

- Bill Maddocks - Aviator, Chas Schaedel, Aviation Heritage December 2001, Aviation Historical Sociey of Australia

- The Story of VH-BLB, Kerry & Prue Mason, Aviation Heritage June 2015, Aviation Historical Sociey of Australia

- RAAF use in Middle East: ADF serials.com.au

- DCA file notes extracted by Dave Prossor

Back to the Australian Aviation Menu