Nancy Bird Walton - Pioneer Aviatrix
This is located right next to the security scanners at Sydney airport so I was worried I was going to get arrested for taking a photo of a plaque, which is also why its a bit blurry. Plaque reads:
'Nancy Bird Walton
AO OBE Hon MEng Sydney Hon DSc Newcastle
Pioneer Aviatrix
The first woman to operate an aeroplane commercially in Australia as the aircraft owner and pilot to the Far West Children's Health Scheme, Bourke, NSW, 1935-36.
First flying lessons with Sir Charles Kingsford Smith were conducted at Mascot, NSW in 1933. Instructed by Mr Pat Hall and gained 'A' and Advanced 'A'licences, 1933. The youngest Australian woman to obtain a 'B' commercial flying licence with the distinction of being first in the , then, British Empire to achieve this recognition.
Flew Gypsy Moth VH-UTN Barnstorming throughout NSW, 1935, and the Leopard Moth VH-UUG to operate as an Air Ambulance and Baby Health Clinic Service to transport nurses, mother and children in outback NSW for medical treatment.
War Service: Commandant Women's Air Training Corps, 1942-45.
Celebrating the inspiration and legacy of a courageous Aviatrix, an advocate and mentor to women pilots and a contributor to the development of aviation in Australia.
Founder and Patron of the Australian Women Pilots' Association Established 16th September 1950'
Submitted by: @IanThorp