1921-2021
1914, Chapman and Jose relocated to a ne
modern premises on Francis Stre
In September 1931, North-West Fisheries mov
their operations from Port Gregory to this s
The factory at Port Gregory had been the fi
crayfish cannery in the Sta
During World War II the building was occup
by the 19th Garrison Battali
From 1951 until 1972, the building was used In
addition to its aerated water industry, Geraldton also ad its own breweries dating back e Victoria Brewery 1883 and the Globe Brewery 1915.
Harris , Scarfe and Sandovers Ltd, famous West
Australian merchants, engineers and manufacture COVER: Memorial Sundial Wing by Bill Newbold and Mark Cannon. This artwork honours World War II service men and women at Geraldton Airport and is a life-size replica of an Avro Anson aircraft wing, 2021 (courtesy Desmond Hill, P 15272).
Following this period, the site became a fi
processing factory, later to also be used for ma
ABOVE: Aerial view of the No. 4 Service Flying years as an important training a Training School which wascentre housed at thefor Geraldton Aerodrome from 1941-1944. At one stage there were 1,572 personnel at the School, housed in rows of huts, including 178 WAAAF, c1942 (courtesy Doug Brenkley, P 11973).
educational support in the Midwest Regi
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Introduction
ved
Stand anywhere on the land form known as the Greenough Flats, look to the south in the afternoon and you will feel it. A gentle breeze that barely ruffles your hair, but soon grows in force, like invisible fingers plucking urgently at your clothing.
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made. Tubes passed through Brearley Takes to Local Skies
wooden tubs of lemon or ginger On the afternoon of Saturday 18 September
1920, Major Brearley thrilled Geraldtonians with a flying display at Utakarra. The following week he travelled out to Mullewa.
syrup, filling the Major bottles, then Brearley was at Mullewa on Sunday, 26th
That southerly wind sweeps each day across the land, making sturdy trees bow before it as they grow. Water also plays its part, regular floods far inland washing fertile soils down to settle and create the Greenough Flats.
inst., arriving about half past five the previous evening. After circling over the town a while, he alighted near the old sale yards, where he was almost instantly surrounded by an expectant crowd of people.
the marbles sealing them.”
Those fertile soils made this a popular location for our European settlers, who found the soil easy to work to their modest needs. That ancient cycleofofChampion (Constance Norris - Memories Bayaornumber Old Geraldton). Quite of people enjoyed the novelty agriculture would have continued uninterrupted, of joy riding in the air, some being even if not for the arrival of a machine that needed that venturesome enough to loop the loop. Major vital combination of flat ground and strong winds Brearley departed for Northampton about ten o’clock on Monday morning. – the aeroplane. Ten years after the first flight of Wilbur and Orville Wright, the aeroplane had become a weapon of war. However, it was young veterans of World War I, the Great War, who realised its potential for peace. The Greenough Flats were perfect for it.
Geraldton Guardian, 30 September 1920 Below: Brearley at Mullewa, 1920 (courtesy of the Mullewa Agricultural Society, P 11383).
The First Official Landing Strip In 1921 a site at Utakarra along Eastward Road (opposite the present day site of the Geraldton Turf Club) was selected for Geraldton’s first official landing ground. However, only days before the commencement of the North West Air Mail Service, the site was still littered with stumps and uneven ground. Major Brearley negotiated with local farmer Mr E. Gould to use one of his paddocks instead. This decision was quickly approved by the Civil Aviation Authority and “Gould’s Paddock” became the site of Geraldton’s first Aerodrome. 1.
1914, Chapman and Jose relocated to a ne
modern premises on Francis Stre
In September 1931, North-West Fisheries mov
their operations from Port Gregory to this s
The factory at Port Gregory had been the fi
crayfish cannery in the Sta
During World War II the building was occup
by the 19th Garrison Battali
From 1951 until 1972, the building was used In
addition to its aerated water industry, Geraldton also ad its own breweries dating back e Victoria Brewery 1883 and the Globe Brewery 1915.
Harris , Scarfe and Sandovers Ltd, famous West
Australian merchants, engineers and manufacture
Following this period, the site became a fi
processing factory, later to also be used for ma
years as an important centre for training a
educational support in the Midwest Regi 2.
eet.
1921
ved
Monday 5 December 1921 dawned bright and clear in Geraldton, a town that was to be a stepping stone in history with the first “aerial mail” service in Australia.
site.
made. Tubes passed through wooden tubs of lemon or ginger
ate.
Dubbed an “epoch marking event” by The Geraldton Guardian newspaper, the first air-mail run to Derby was undertaken by West Australian Airways Ltd, led by World War I veteran Major Norman Brearley DSO, MC, AFC.
pied
The arrival the day before of three Bristol aeroplanes in Geraldton, after a three hour flight from Perth, was cause for great celebration.
first
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ONE
ew,
syrup, filling the bottles, then the marbles sealing them.” (Constance Norris - Memories of Champion Bay or Old Geraldton).
The result of a successful tender called by the Federal Government, that inaugural flight was of national significance. However, tragedy struck shortly after the trio of planes took off from Geraldton on Monday morning on the next leg of their journey. Major Brearley had flown ahead, and when the aircraft of Lt Len Taplin began misfiring, he landed safely near Murchison House Station. The third plane was circling overhead when it suddenly stalled and crashed to earth, its pilot Lt Robert (Bob) Fawcett and mechanic Edward Broad dying instantly. Major Brearley and Lt Taplin completed the mail-run but Brearley said its future depended on Federal authorities building emergency landing grounds that had been promised, and the service was temporarily halted. They did, and despite that sad beginning, Geraldton’s place in history was secured as the start of Australia’s first scheduled airmail service.
ABOVE: Brearley’s ground crew at Langley Park (Perth’s unofficial airport), 4 December 1921 (courtesy S. Bennison, P 15267). LEFT UPPER: (left to right) Charles Kingsford-Smith, Robert Fawcett, Norman Brearley, Len Taplin and Val Abbott, 4 December 1921 at Langley Park (courtesy S. Bennison, P 15266). LEFT LOWER: Bristol 28 Coupe Tourer G-AUDG flown by Charles Kingsford Smith at Geraldton Showgrounds, February 1922 (courtesy Geraldton Regional Library - GRL, P 9139).
3.
1914, Chapman and Jose relocated to a ne
modern premises on Francis Stre
In September 1931, North-West Fisheries mov
their operations from Port Gregory to this s
The factory at Port Gregory had been the fi
crayfish cannery in the Sta
During World War II the building was occup
by the 19th Garrison Battali
From 1951 until 1972, the building was used In
Harris , Scarfe and Sandovers Ltd, famous West
addition Australian merchants, engineers and manufacture to its aerated Following this period, the site became a fi water industry, Geraldton also ad its own breweries dating back processing factory, later to also be used for ma e Victoria 1883 and Ltd the- Flight routes and table of distances travelled (courtesy S. Bennison, P 15269). ABOVE:Brewery West Australian Airways years as an important training a RIGHT UPPER: Anniversary memorabilia first official air mail service (courtesy centre GRL, G 2928). for In 1992 Globe Brewery 1915. celebrating Australia’s during 70th anniversary celebrations, a commemorative flight in a replica Bristol Tourer came to an abrupt end when pilot Barry Hempel was forced to crash land on the North West Coastal Highway, 130 kilometres north of Geraldton. The fully restored replica Bristol Tourer is now on display at the Museum of Geraldton.
educational support in the Midwest Regi
RIGHT LOWER: Royal Aero Club of Western Australia and Midwest Aero Club, prior to their departure from Geraldton, 16 September 2021, on the start of their memorial flight from Geraldton to Derby (courtesy Midwest Aero Club, P 15271).
4.
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made. Tubes passed through
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wooden tubs of lemon or ginger
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first
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syrup, filling the bottles, then the marbles sealing them.” (Constance Norris - Memories of Champion Bay or Old Geraldton).
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fish
any
and
ion. 5.
1914, Chapman and Jose relocated to a ne
modern premises on Francis Stre
In September 1931, North-West Fisheries mov
their operations from Port Gregory to this s
The factory at Port Gregory had been the fi
crayfish cannery in the Sta
ABOVE: Original aerodrome at Utakarra, with locals sheltering from the sun under the wings of the De Havilland DH-50, c1925 (courtesy Coral Shaw, P 2162).
During World War II the building was occup
BELOW: 18 July 1932 - Excitement was high when locals welcomed German aviator Captain Hans Bertram and his colleague Herr Klausmann on a brief stopover in Geraldton. Worldwide attention had centred on the pair, following their dramatic rescue after 45 days of being stranded with their seaplane Atlantis on a beach off Wyndham (courtesy GRL, P 3589).
by the 19th Garrison Battali
From 1951 until 1972, the building was used In
addition to its aerated water industry, Geraldton also ad its own breweries dating back e Victoria Brewery 1883 and the Globe Brewery 1915.
Harris , Scarfe and Sandovers Ltd, famous Weste
Australian merchants, engineers and manufacture
Following this period, the site became a fi
processing factory, later to also be used for ma
years as an important centre for training a
educational support in the Midwest Regi 6.
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ved
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first
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fish
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1922-1945
made. Tubes passed through
In the years that followed the tragedy and triumph of that first mail run, the Geraldton Aerodrome grew steadily until it was overtaken by world events.
wooden tubs of lemon or ginger
A new site at Moonyoonoooka was selected for the Aerodrome.
TWO
ew,
syrup, filling the bottles, then
World War II brought new challenges, the bucolic charm of the fields surrounding the airport was shattered by screaming engines. In February 1941, Geraldton Airport became Number 4 Service Flying Training School of the Royal Australian Air Force.
the marbles sealing them.”
Its commanding officer from 1942 to 1944 was noneof Champion Bay or Old Geraldton). (Constance Norris - Memories other than Group Captain Norman Brearley. More than 1,000 pilots “earned their wings” in the skies over Geraldton. Among them was David Shannon, awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his part in the famous Dambuster raid in May 1943. Eager young volunteers learned to fly in twin-engine Avro Ansons, “little brothers” of the Avro Lancaster bombers that pounded the Nazi war machine. Learning to fly with two engines was a short cut to the four engines of those large bombers. It was not without its hazards; next to Geraldton Cemetery is a Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery, the final resting place of young recruits who died “on active service” in training crashes. When the war ended in 1945, Geraldton Airport was ready for another exciting life. The War Years Drive Trail Booklet produced by the City of Greater Geraldton contains additional information and images which may be of interest.
ABOVE: VH-URW - In October 1934, MacRobertson-Miller Aviation (MMA) transferred its main base to Perth, after it won a Commonwealth Government contract for airmail services to Daly Waters in the Northern Territory previously operated by West Australian Airways. Two large Dragon Moth planes, one piloted by Bert Hussey, the other by Arthur Affleck, flew into Geraldton on 3 October 1934 on the inaugural MMA West Australian flight (courtesy Tony Parasiliti, P 15277).
7.
1914, Chapman and Jose relocated to a ne
modern premises on Francis Stre
In September 1931, North-West Fisheries mov
their operations from Port Gregory to this s
The factory at Port Gregory had been the fi
crayfish cannery in the Sta
During World War II the building was occup
by the 19th Garrison Battali
From 1951 until 1972, the building was used In
addition to its aerated water industry, Geraldton also ad its own breweries dating back e Victoria Brewery 1883 and the Globe Brewery 1915.
ABOVE: Aerial view of the No. 4 Service Flying Training School, 1942 (courtesy Australian War Memorial, P 15275).
Harris , Scarfe and Sandovers Ltd, famous West
LEFT: A WAAAF driver, Motor Transport changes a Australian merchants, engineers and manufacture wheel on the truck she has been detailed to drive (courtesy Australian War Memorial, P 15274).
Following this period, theBrearley siteinspecting became a fi RIGHT TOP: Group Captain air crew trainees at No. 4 Service Flying Training
School,later 1943 (courtesy Australian Memorial, processing factory, to also beWarused for ma P 15273).
RIGHT LOWER LEFT: Crash whilst night years as an important centre forflying, training a 19 March 1943, Moresby Range, Waggrakine.
educationalunharmed support theFamily, Midwest (courtesyin Wiltshire P 15168). Regi Remarkably the pilot walked away from W-1958
RIGHT LOWER RIGHT: Geraldton War Cemetery, Eastward Road, Utakarra (courtesy GRL, P 15259).
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made. Tubes passed through
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syrup, filling the bottles, then the marbles sealing them.” (Constance Norris - Memories of Champion Bay or Old Geraldton).
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tern
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fish
any
and
ion. 9.
1914, Chapman and Jose relocated to a n
modern premises on Francis Stre
In September 1931, North-West Fisheries mov
their operations from Port Gregory to this s
The factory at Port Gregory had been the fi
crayfish cannery in the Sta
During World War II the building was occup
by the 19th Garrison Battali
From 1951 until 1972, the building was used In
addition to its aerated water industry, Geraldton also ad its own breweries dating back e Victoria Brewery 1883 and the Globe Brewery 1915.
Harris , Scarfe and Sandovers Ltd, famous West
Australian merchants, engineers and manufacture
Following this period, the site became a fi
processing factory, later to also be used for ma
years as an important centre for training a
educational support in the Midwest Regi 10.
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ved
site.
first
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1945-1960
made. Tubes passed through
Friday 14 December 1945 was a big event for 21 Geraldton businessmen. They were guests of the MacRobertson Miller Aviation Company, which had chosen that day to unveil its luxurious new airliner, the Douglas DC-3.
wooden tubs of lemon or ginger
THREE
new,
syrup, filling the bottles, then
The twin-engine aluminium-bodied aircraft was one of many that served in allied air forces as the C-47 transport. At war’s end, most became civilian airliners, which they were originally designed as in 1935.
the marbles sealing them.”
This was unlike anything those passengers in 1945 had ever imagined. The journey to Perth had gone (Constance - Memories from days on horseback to 18-24Norris hours by train,of Champion Bay or Old Geraldton). and now to less than two hours. A writer from the Geraldton Guardian was among those passengers, quaintly describing the DC-3 as “the giant machine”. Flying at “well over 100 miles per hour” (160kph) the passengers could see that aviation would change their world. It did. Flying proved extremely popular and the DC-3 would service WA for years to come, but larger and faster aircraft were already on drawing boards. Servicing each generation of that new world would be Geraldton Airport.
Fatal Commercial Flight On 24 June 1945, MMA suffered a severe setback when VH-USF crashed on its inaugural flight from Perth-Geraldton-Carnarvon. The DH86 crashed directly after takeoff from the Geraldton Aerodrome, killing 2 and injuring 9. Cause of the accident remains unclear (Geoff Goodall’s Aviation History site, https://www.goodall.com.au/). LEFT TOP: VH-UZK flown to Geraldton by Captain Harry Baker on the 26 February 1942 (courtesy Tony Parasiliti, P 15278). LEFT LOWER: VH-MMA on the tarmac at Geraldton Airport, December 1963 (courtesy Katherine McMillan, P 15282). ABOVE: First Officer Colin Chapman, Hostess Faye James and Captain Lennard Morley. Standing alongside VH-MMA at Geraldton Airport, 1963 (courtesy Kathryn McMillan, P 15281).
11.
1914, Chapman and Jose relocated to a ne
modern premises on Francis Stre
In September 1931, North-West Fisheries mov
their operations from Port Gregory to this s
The factory at Port Gregory had been the fi
crayfish cannery in the Sta
During World War II the building was occup
by the 19th Garrison Battali
From 1951 until 1972, the building was used
LEFT ABOVE: News of the inaugural meeting of the Geraldton Branch of the Royal Aero Club, Geraldton Guardian and Express, 11 March 1947. In 1963 the group became The Geraldton Aero Club, ceasing operations in the 1970s. In 1986 the Midwest Owners and Pilots Association was formed, becoming the Midwest Aero Club (Inc) in 1990. Over the years, the Club has continued to offer a comprehensive training schedule, supporting many events that hold the public interest, including In the Sunshine Festival, WOW Festival and the 2021 memorial flight from Geraldton to Derby.
Harris , Scarfe and Sandovers Ltd, famous West
Australian merchants, engineers and manufacture
RIGHT ABOVE: Jindivik (aaddition target towing drone) at the Geraldton Airport for the Sunshine Festival, 1964 (courtesy Peter Maddren, P 13958). BELOW: Geraldton Airport, October 1960 (courtesy GRL, P 7595).
to its aerated water industry, Geraldton also ad its own breweries dating back e Victoria Brewery 1883 and the Globe Brewery 1915.
Following this period, the site became a fi
processing factory, later to also be used for ma
years as an important centre for training a
educational support in the Midwest Regi 12.
ew,
eet.
made. Tubes passed through
ved
wooden tubs of lemon or ginger
site.
first
ate.
pied
ion.
syrup, filling the bottles, then the marbles sealing them.” (Constance Norris - Memories of Champion Bay or Old Geraldton).
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ABOVE: The Geraldton Tourist Bureau located in the old Commercial Bank premises on the corner of Marine Terrace and Cathedral Avenue. Shows a VW Kombi (or Combi) used as an airport shuttle bus, c1960s (courtesy State Library of WA).
13.
1914, Chapman and Jose relocated to a ne
modern premises on Francis Stre
In September 1931, North-West Fisheries mov
their operations from Port Gregory to this s
The factory at Port Gregory had been the fi
crayfish cannery in the Sta
During World War II the building was occup
by the 19th Garrison Battali
From 1951 until 1972, the building was used In
Harris , Scarfe and Sandovers Ltd, famous West
addition Australian merchants, engineers and manufacture to its aerated Following this period, the site became a fi water industry, Geraldton also ad its own breweries dating back processing factory, later to also be used for ma e Victoria Brewery 1883 and the ABOVE: Geraldton’s new offices for MMA were opened in Marine November 1975. The office was located in years asTerrace an inimportant centre for training a Globe Brewery 1915. part of the former Willocks Store. All bookings for travel and all cargo handling was taken care of from these premises (courtesy Tony Parasiliti, P 15280).
educational support in the Midwest Regi
RIGHT: VH-MMS was the first Fokker F-27 Friendship to visit Geraldton, 29 December 1959. Crew for this historic flight were Captain Syd Goddard and Captain Alex Whitlam. VH-MMS remained in Australian service with MMA and Ansett until retired in 1987. During that period, VH-MMS ferried 1, 854 518 passengers (courtesy Nigel K. Daw, P 15279).
14.
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ved
site.
first
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ion.
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made. Tubes passed through 1960-1979 MMA marked the start of a new era by presenting its first-ever Gold Pass to Anglican Bishop John Frewer. His Eminence had realised that air travel could allow him to minister to his flock over the vast distances of Western Australia.
wooden tubs of lemon or ginger syrup, filling the bottles, then
FOUR
ew,
Throughout the 1950s the DC-3 had been MMA’s reliable workhorse, but WA was entering a boom period in mining and agriculture, it needed an update. December 1959 saw the arrival of MMA’s first Fokker F-27 Friendship. Powered by twin turbo-prop engines, it seated 40 passengers and reduced the Geraldton to Perth flight time to just one hour. MMA’s first Friendship was flown to Geraldton by Captain Syd Goddard, who (Constance Norris - Memories of Champion Bay or Old Geraldton). “got his wings” in Geraldton at the No. 4 Service Flying Training School.
the marbles sealing them.”
Even as the North West boomed, MMA could not afford more Friendships, but change was coming. March 1962 and Geraldton Airport was approved as an official alternative for the Qantas Boeing 707s. At that time the world’s biggest airliners, the 707s were flying from Sydney to London. It only meant that Geraldton could be used if Perth Airport was closed by fog, but that was newsworthy enough for the Geraldton Guardian. On the 19 April 1963, seventy percent of MMA shares were sold to Ansett Airlines. MMA’s second F-27 Friendship, owned by Ansett, arrived in July 1964 and another in July 1966. Ansett bought out the remaining 30 percent of MMA in November 1968, and five Friendships carried the MMA logo through the 1960s. VH-MMS, the first to enter service with MMA in 1959, was last to leave on the 8 January 1972. Royal tours used to arrive by sea, but on the 28 August 1969, the Duke and Duchess of Kent made a trip from Perth to Geraldton on an RAAF BAC-111. It was the first landing at Geraldton by a large jet.
By 1969 MMA was fully owned by Ansett Airlines. February 9, 1971 and the sight of a jet plane circling over Geraldton sent the rumour mill into overdrive. It was MMA’s new Fellowship jet, which was yet to commence operations, on a pilot training flight. As Western Australia’s largest (and only) domestic carrier, MMA introduced pure intrastate jet services to the state, commencing on the 4 October 1971 with a sixty seater F-28 Fellowship that slashed flying time to Geraldton from Perth to forty-five minutes. The travelling public liked the service, despite occasional calls for increased competition by the Federal Government backed operator, Trans Australia Airlines (TAA). In the 1970s, continued growth in Western Australia saw more F-28 Fellowships added to MMA’s fleet.
15.
1914, Chapman and Jose relocated to a ne
modern premises on Francis Stre
In September 1931, North-West Fisheries mov
their operations from Port Gregory to this s
The factory at Port Gregory had been the fi
crayfish cannery in the Sta
During World War II the building was occup
by the 19th Garrison Battali
From 1951 until 1972, the building was used In
Harris , Scarfe and Sandovers Ltd, famous West
addition Australian merchants, engineers and manufacture to its aerated Following this period, the site became a fi water industry, Geraldton also ad its own breweries dating back processing factory, later to also be used for ma e Victoria Brewery 1883 and the ABOVE: Bishop John Frewer showing his gold pass to MMA hostess, Lucille Thornton, received after his one thousandth flight, years as an important centre for training a 1959 (courtesy Anglican Diocesan Archives, P 15286). Globe Brewery 1915.
educational support in the Midwest Regi
RIGHT TOP: Captain Syd Goddard was the face of MMA’s pilot group during the 1970s. This photo was reproduced from the Airlines booklet Welcome Aboard placed in every seat of their Fokker F-28 Fellowship aircraft. Captain Goddard graduated as a RAAF pilot at Geraldton in 1942 (courtesy Tony Parasiliti, P 15287). RIGHT LOWER: MMA advertisement, Sunshine Festival Programme, 1960 (courtesy GRL).
16.
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eet.
made. Tubes passed through
ved
wooden tubs of lemon or ginger
site.
first
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ion.
syrup, filling the bottles, then the marbles sealing them.” (Constance Norris - Memories of Champion Bay or Old Geraldton).
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fish
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ABOVE: Princess Anne is greeted at the Geraldton Airport by Eric V. Sewell, President, Shire of Greenough, during a royal visit to Australia in 1974 (courtesy Sewell Family, P 13048).
17.
1914, Chapman and Jose relocated to a ne
modern premises on Francis Stre
In September 1931, North-West Fisheries mov
their operations from Port Gregory to this s
The factory at Port Gregory had been the fi
crayfish cannery in the Sta
During World War II the building was occup
by the 19th Garrison Battali
From 1951 until 1972, the building was used In
addition to its aerated water industry, Geraldton also ad its own breweries dating back e Victoria Brewery 1883 and the Globe Brewery 1915.
Harris , Scarfe and Sandovers Ltd, famous West
Australian merchants, engineers and manufacture
Following this period, the site became a fi
processing factory, later to also be used for ma
years as an important centre for training a
educational support in the Midwest Regi 18.
ew,
eet.
made. Tubes passed through
ved
wooden tubs of lemon or ginger
site.
first
ate.
pied
ion.
syrup, filling the bottles, then the marbles sealing them.” (Constance Norris - Memories of Champion Bay or Old Geraldton).
d by
tern
ers.
fish
any
and
ion.
ABOVE: VH-FKD entering the tarmac at Geraldton Airport in February 1978. Fokker F-28 Fellowship aircraft introduced the jet age to Western Australia on the 2 September 1969. In October 1971, MMA Fokker F-28 Fellowship aircraft commenced scheduled passenger services to Geraldton (courtesy Tony Parasiliti, P 15283). In 2021 many passengers through Geraldton Airport are fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workers. However, this is nothing new. Since it’s inception, the Geraldton Airport has provided a vital link to the Houtman Abrolhos Islands and Pilbara, along with other remote communities, not only in transporting the workforce, but also providing access to charter services, medical care, goods and services, whilst playing an important role in developing local tourism. LEFT TOP LEFT: Island helicopter, c1970s (courtesy GRL, P 1920). LEFT TOP RIGHT: Geraldton Fishermen’s Co-op Float Plane, c1970s (courtesy Slim Thomas, P 8966). LEFT LOWER: Locals carry boxes of beer off the plane on their return to Rat Island in the Houtman Abrolhos, c1977 (coutesy State Library of WA, P 15260).
19.
1914, Chapman and Jose relocated to a ne
modern premises on Francis Stre
In September 1931, North-West Fisheries mov
their operations from Port Gregory to this s
The factory at Port Gregory had been the fi
crayfish cannery in the Sta
During World War II the building was occup
ABOVE/BELOW: Brearley Terminal was opened in 1979 and was named in honour of Sir Norman Brearley, founder of West Australian Airways Ltd (WAA) (courtesy GRL, P 10582 and State Library of WA).
by the 19th Garrison Battali
RIGHT: Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, arrive in Geraldton, 22 April 1988, aboard RAAF BAC-111, to proclaim Geraldton a City. The RAAF Captain for the flight was former Geraldton student, Wing Commander Michael Birks, who attended St Patricks College, In Geraldton (courtesy Norma Golding, P 3620).
From 1951 until 1972, the building was used
Harris , Scarfe and Sandovers Ltd, famous West
addition to its aerated water industry, Geraldton also ad its own breweries dating back e Victoria Brewery 1883 and the Globe Brewery 1915.
Australian merchants, engineers and manufacture
Following this period, the site became a fi
processing factory, later to also be used for ma
years as an important centre for training a
educational support in the Midwest Regi 20.
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ved
site.
first
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1980-2021
made. Tubes passed through
In 1979 the Shire of Greenough entered into an agreement with the Commonwealth Department of Transport to jointly operate the Geraldton Airport and the new Brearley Terminal was opened on the 28 September 1979. The old RAAF shack, which had been Geraldton Airport’s terminal since 1945, was given to the Scout Association of WA and relocated to Bluff Point. Shine Aviation also administered its operations from the new terminal.
wooden tubs of lemon or ginger
FIVE
ew,
from Geraldton using two Dash 8 aircraft and in competition with Virgin.
syrup, filling the bottles, then
1 July 2013 saw the handover of the Air Services building to the City of Greater Geraldton, with the building redeveloped Then on the 1 July 1981, a name that for 47 years had as a General Aviation Terminal. On the 23 July 2014, played a vital role in Geraldton’s progress was replaced. QantasLink conducted its first jet passenger service MMA became Airlines of Western Australia, wholly with a F-100 aircraft and for the first time Geraldton owned of course by Ansett. In 1985 the 75 seater jets, (Constance Norris - Memories of Champion Bay or Old Geraldton). had two airlines using jet aircraft. BAE-146, were added to the F-28 fleets that serviced Geraldton and Western Australia till January 1995. Following the retirement of F-50 aircraft on the 27
the marbles sealing them.”
Once more, propeller services were introduced by Skywest [Ansett] using F-50 Friendships, a more sophisticated derivative of the F-27 Friendship. Able to carry 50 passengers, this aircraft serviced Geraldton for 21 years. In 1991 the Airport became wholly owned by the Shire of Greenough, with the new Greenough Terminal being opened in September 2001 at a cost of $3.6 million. In June 2004 jet services were once more introduced, this time by Skywest using F-100 aircraft, a 100 seater that was a more advanced derivative of the F-28 Fellowship. Propeller driven Fokker F-50’s continued to be in use at this time, in tandem with the F-100’s by Skywest (Virgin from 2013) services.
February 2016, the two major players were now utilising pure jet services out of Geraldton. In August 2021, Qantas introduced the larger, 180 seater A320, commencing a twice-weekly service from Perth – Geraldton – Perth (later increased to three per week) - the largest passenger airliner to service Geraldton. Aircraft designs have constantly improved, flying higher and faster than those that came before them, but one thing remains constant – trees still bow before the southerly wind that blows over the Greenough Flats.
On the 11 January 2011, QantasLink conducted its inaugural flight to Geraldton, using a Boeing 717 aircraft, VH-NXQ. Flown to Geraldton by Captain Andrew Hardey, on board were several high profile dignitaries including state Treasurer Troy Buswell and Geoffrey Thomas. It wasn’t till the 15 November 2011, that Qantas commenced regular passenger services 21.
1914, Chapman and Jose relocated to a ne
modern premises on Francis Stre
In September 1931, North-West Fisheries mov
their operations from Port Gregory to this s
The factory at Port Gregory had been the fi
crayfish cannery in the Sta
During World War II the building was occup
by the 19th Garrison Battali
From 1951 until 1972, the building was used In
addition to its aerated water industry, Geraldton also ad its own breweries dating back e Victoria Brewery 1883 and the Globe Brewery 1915.
Harris , Scarfe and Sandovers Ltd, famous Weste
Australian merchants, engineers and manufacture
Following this period, the site became a fi
processing factory, later to also be used for ma
years as an important centre for training a
educational support in the Midwest Regi 22.
ew,LEFT TOP: Members of the Royal Aero Club of WA and the Midwest Aero Club, 2021 (courtesy
eet.Midwest Aero Club, P 15270).
made. Tubes passed through
ved
wooden tubs of lemon or ginger
LEFT BELOW: Local pilots in formation over Point Moore in 2019 and the Club Rooms opened 4 July 2015 by Mayor Ian Carpenter (courtesy Midwest Aero Club, P 15264 and P 15263).
site.
RIGHT: VH-FNT landing at Geraldton, 21 April 2012 (courtesy Tony James, Geraldton Airport Archives). New Skywest services between Geraldton and Denpasar, Bali (via Port Hedland) commenced 25 June 2011 and then on 9 December 2011, flights began between Geraldton and Kalgoorlie.
first
syrup, filling the bottles, then
ate.When combined with Skywest’s existing Kalgoorlie
the marbles sealing them.”
to Melbourne route, the new Geraldton to Kalgoolie link provided a much faster, more direct connection, bypassing the need to fly via Perth. Whilst these services later proved non-viable, the - Memories of Champion Bay or Old Geraldton). (Constance Norris Airport continued to see a great deal of positive change.
pied
ion.
d by
tern
ers.
fish
any
and
A Dedicated Staff Member In 2019, Bob Urquhart (pictured left) retired from the City of Greater Geraldton after more than 45 years in the aviation industry. Bob joined MMA in 1974, later becoming Airport Manager for the Shire of Greenough, followed by the City. Bob has been recognised for his dedication after winning the WA Chairman’s Award for outstanding service to the airport industry in 2018 and 2014. He was also appointed to the prestigious National Board of the Australian Airports Association in 2013 (courtesy GRL, P 15261).
ion. 23.
1914, Chapman and Jose relocated to a ne
modern premises on Francis Stre
In September 1931, North-West Fisheries mov
their operations from Port Gregory to this s
The factory at Port Gregory had been the fi
crayfish cannery in the Sta
During World War II the building was occup
by the 19th Garrison Battali
ABOVE: A27-08 on display at the Geraldton Airport as a part of RAAF 100 Year celebrations (courtesy Tony Parasiliti, P 15284).
BELOW: QantasLink Airbus VH-UVK landing at Geraldton with a view of Mount Fairfax in the background, 2021 (courtesy Tony Parasiliti, P 15285). BACK COVER: Aerial view of Geraldton Airport (courtesy Graeme Gibbons, P 15262).
From 1951 until 1972, the building was used
In
addition to its aerated water industry, Geraldton also ad its own breweries dating back e Victoria Brewery 1883 and the Globe Brewery 1915.
Harris , Scarfe and Sandovers Ltd, famous West
Australian merchants, engineers and manufacture
Following this period, the site became a fi
processing factory, later to also be used for ma
years as an important centre for training a
educational support in the Midwest Regi 24.
ew,
eet.
ved
site.
first
ate.
pied
ion.
d by
tern
ers.
fish
made. Tubes passed through FAST FACTS - GERALDTON AIRPORT (2021) Operator ICAO Code IATA Code Location CASA Status Elevation Runway 03/21
City of Greater Geraldton YGEL
wooden tubs of lemon or ginger GET
28 47’ 46” South 114 43’ 27” East Certified
syrup, filling the bottles, then 121 feet
2,389 metres long, 45 metres wide, Grooved Asphalt with 7.5 metre sealed shoulders. Double sided PAPI, LED Runway Lights. Aircraft Capacity Airbus A330/ Boeing 787 Dreamliner Runway 14/32 844 metres long, 18 metres wide, Asphalt, unlit. Aircraft Capacity, up to 5700 kg Max Take-Off Weight Runway 08/26 900 metres long, 18Bay metres Gravel, unlit, Aircraft Capacity, (Constance Norris - Memories of Champion or Oldwide, Geraldton). up to 5700 kg Max Take-Off Weight Passengers through main terminal Forecast for 2021/22 - 100,000. Last financial year - 64,223
the marbles sealing them.”
General aviation landings, 2020-21 FY 4,990 (Beech 1900, Cessna, Airvan, Sports Aircraft, RAAF PC21, RFDS PC12 etc) Larger aircraft landings, 2020-21 FY 1,045 (Fokker 100, Dash 8, Q400). Following Cyclone Seroja - C130 C17 charters RPT Carrier Qantaslink, F100 aircraft Charter Carriers
Virgin- F100, Alliance – F100, Cobham – Q400, Maroomba – Dash 8
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
any Text and research by Gary Warner
and
ion.
Additional research by Tony Parasiliti, Trudi Cornish, Lorin Cox and Glenn Barndon Published by Heritage Services, Geraldton Regional Library, 2021 We respectfully acknowledge the Yamatji Peoples who are the Traditional Owners and First People of the land on which we stand. The Nhanhagardi, Wilunyu, Naaguja. We pay our respects to the Elders past, present and future for they hold the memories, the traditions, the culture and hopes of the Yamatji Peoples. 25.
www.cgg.wa.gov.au