On the tarmac at RAAF base, Wagga Wagga
Photographer
David Watson
(deceased)
Date1978
Object numberANMS0532[015]
NameNegative
Copyright© Luke Watson
ClassificationsPhotographs
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Tumut and Adelong Times
DescriptionA photograph depicting the engine from SPIRIT OF AUSTRALIA being tested on the tarmac at the RAAF base at Forest Hill, near Wagga Wagga. Ken Warby can be seen on the right side of the image wearing a SPIRIT OF AUSTRALIA jacket.
The base was an air force training facility that assisted Ken Warby in servicing SPIRIT OF AUSTRALIA in preparation for his second world water speed record in 1978.
HistoryKen Warby was SPIRIT OF AUSTRALIA's designer, builder and driver and had achieved his world water-speed records on a shoestring budget. Warby built his hydroplane over two years in the backyard of his suburban Sydney home, using stringers, brackets, stock bits of timber, plywood, screws, epoxy and a military-surplus jet engine that cost $65. He eventually launched the boat in 1974.
Warby set his first world water speed record in 1977 yet despite the success of that attempt Warby wanted to break the 300 mph barrier a year later. In order to achieve this however, SPIRIT OF AUSTRALIA and its engine would need further work carried out.
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) volunteered its service at its technical training facility in southern New South Wales, Forest Hill. Here apprentices would assist in overhauling and testing the J34 jet engine which had set the record in 1977. The engine, in addition to wear and tear, had suffered some damage with parts needing to be replaced. The body of the boat itself also needed adjustments which would be carried out at the base as well.
SignificanceAfter Ken Warby set his first world speed record in 1977 he became determined to better the time the following year. In this second attempt he had the official assistance of the Royal Australian Air Force who tested and maintained the jet engine used on SPIRIT OF AUSTRALIA.
