AUSTRALIA'S AVIATION SCHEME

Dominion, Volume 12, Issue 67, 13 December 1918, Page 6

AUSTRALIA'S AVIATION SCHEME

A CHAIN OF AERODROMES. In the course of tho next year or so Australia will probably be building her own aeroplanes (says the Melbourne "Age"). Plans have already been prepared, and from investigations carried out by a special committee appointed by the Government it Has been ascertained that with proper organisation all difficulties in the way of securing the requisite materials can be surmounted. Australian limbers are quite suitable for aircraft construction, and it has been reported to the Government by one of its own experts that by the proper mobilisation of the industrial resources of Australian factories it will be possible to turn out aircraft of the very latest type. Meantime the creation of im up-to-date flying force is being proceeded with. In Qttition to the work that it carried out at the Point Cook Plying School, a new establishment is being created for the teaching of aeronautics. This will bo situated at Portsea, under the command of Captain Kilby. The school is now being equipped, and will be in full operation shortly. After tuition at Portsea air cadets will be transferred to tho Point Cook School for the completion of their education. The Federal authorities liavo under consideration tho question of amalgamating the naval and military flying services. To prevent needless expense, it will be necessary for tho two services to work hand in hand. The development of the air forces will'necessitate the establishment of aerodromes in various portions of the Commonwealth. Eventually there will be a chain of aerodromes linking up the entire continent. With the development of aviation in Australia it is anticipated that aero clubs will spring into existence. The Defence authorities are looking forward to the organisation of such bodies, which will bo welcomed as a means of stimulating public interest in aerial navigation.