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Water speed record attempt

Date13 February 1976

Object numberANMS1163[375]

NameNewspaper clipping

MediumInk on paper

ClassificationsEphemera

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Graeme Andrews

Terms

DescriptionA newspaper clipping from the Daily Telegraph headed 'Water speed record attempt'. The article notes Warby will attempt to drive his jet-powered hydroplane SPIRIT OF AUSTRALIA at more than 320km/h on Blowering Dam and officially break the Australian water speed record in March. The article outlines the details of attempt, rescue services in place and the need for more sponsors.HistoryOne aspect of Ken Warby's record attempt that did not receive much coverage was the special rescue precautions that were in place. The team was assembled by the St John Ambulance in Canberra. It comprised of specially trained divers, most of whom were cadets from the Royal Military College in Duntroon: "The divers, including special deep sea divers, have been training for three months to man the rescue boats when Warby makes his record bid on either March 6 or 7. Each of the rescue boats has two-way radio. A diver and a surgeon will also be present." SignificanceAs time drew nearer to Ken Warby's first record attempt, slight interest was generated but still sponsors were not forthcoming. The media reiterated the extreme danger Warby was placing himself in and despite the many precautions as he could manage, the risk factor was constant and part of the reason some sponsors may have been hesitant to become involved.