THE TASMAN FLIGHT.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIX, Issue 3838, 30 August 1928, Page 2

THE TASMAN FLIGHT.

MAY BE ATTEMPTED THIS WEEK END. Sydney, August 29. Although Captain Kingsford Smith is unable to announce'a definite date for the commencement of the Tasman flight, it is reliably reported that the engineer (Maidment) has been asked to complete his, inspection of the Southern Cross by Friday night, in which case, Aveather permitting, the flight "’ill probably begin at the coming Aveek-end. Ideal spring weather prevails at present in Sydney. The moon will be suitable. Sydney, August 29. Captain Smith and Lieutenant Ulm are inundated Avith the work of preparation for the NeAv Zealand flight and their general correspondence Avhich has accumulated during their absence in the west. The Southern Cross is being thoroughly overhauled, and if complete in time may start for New Zealand on Saturday night, but, as Ulm stated this afternoon, they cannot guarantee just when they Avill hop off. This depends on cir- v cumstances. It possibly will be Saturday, and may be Sunday evening or even Monday. 'The ’plane will carry a wreath to be dropped at sea in memory of Moncrieff and Hood. SMITH'S CHALLENGERS. TO ATTEMPT THE CROSSING. Christchurch, August 29. According to the statement of Captain G. F. Stewart Bryson, who served for seven years in the Royal Canadian Air Force, who is now in Christchurch he may be a member, of the crew of the Ryan monoplane, Avhich it has been announced may attempt to fly the Tasman. Captain SteAvart Biyson says he has received a cable message from Mars Brundal, who is organising the flight, asking him to be a member of the crew. He had previously offered to accompany Captain Moody before the authorities prevented his flight. “I have cabled accepting the offer, said Captain SteAvart" Bryson. ' “Four of us Avill be making the trip if the authorities allow it, which I doubt. I don’t think Colonel Brinsmead Avill let the Ryan go. Even though Kingsford Smith has declined the challenge the Ryan will flv unless the authorities stop it.”

Captain Kingsford Smith and Lieutenant Ulm declined the invitation for an air race across the Tasman. Captain Smith said: “I do not believe in stunt aviation and would not attempt a flight to New Zealand without a navigator and radio expert.” The Southern Cross landed at Richmond (Sydney) on Tuesday afternoon, completing the flight from - Perth. Ideal weather was experienced throughout the last stage from .Adelaide.'