The next Sydney Mechanics School of the Arts guest lecture will feature biographer Rick Searle for a compelling talk on Charles Ulm and his role as a driving force behind the growth of modern global air travel on Wednesday 29 August.
Charles Ulm and Charles Kingsford Smith were two of the most important pioneers of Australian aviation. Together they succeeded in a number of record-breaking flights that made them instant celebrities around the world, notably the first ever trans-Pacific flight, and in setting up Australian National Airways in late 1928.
While Smithy was the face of the airline, Ulm was in his element as managing director. Smithy had the charisma and public acclaim, Ulm the tenacity and organisational skills. In 1932, Kingsford Smith received a knighthood for his services to flying; Ulm did not.
Ulm’s final flight was meant to demonstrate the potential for a regular trans-Pacific passenger service. Tragically, it disappeared somewhere between San Francisco and Hawaii. No trace of the plane or crew was ever found.
When: Wednesday 29 August, 12.30pm
Where: Mitchell Theatre, SMSA, 280 Pitt Street, Sydney
Cost: Free. No bookings required.
Contact: 02 9262 7300
Image: courtesy of SMSA