A BLACK CAT TO FLY AGAIN
| visits since 26 December 2000 |
Catalina
Catalina squadrons carried out effective offensive and defensive operations of an almost unbelievable nature, playing a major role in bringing the war in the Pacific to its conclusion in August 1945.
The Seaplane Pilots Association has combined forces with the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society (HARS) to locate and purchase a Catalina to restore it to flying status in the famous Black Cat colours of World War 2.
Philip Dulhunty of the Seaplane Pilots Association said "There are still some original Catalina pilots and air crew who, in their late 70's and 80's meet regularly in Sydney to reminisce and say farewell to comrades who may not make the next meeting. While these stalwarts are still around, it is important to show our younger generation the Catalinas and the men who operated them.""
The groups have located a possible Catalina that is being used in the US for water bombing. More sponsors are still needed before the project can proceed. Australian entrepeneur Dick Smith has agreed to be a major sponsor towards the $500,000 purchase price for the Catalina.
Mr. Dulhunty said donations to the project are tax deductible and HARS have already restored several aircraft including its centrepiece, the Lockheed Super Constellation "Connie".
If you would like to make a donation to the Black Cat project
please send an e-mail to Phil Dulhunty.
Click here to E-Mail Phil Dulhunty
REFERENCE BOOK
Gaunt, Coral & Cleworth, Robert, "Cats at War - The Story of RAAF Catalinas in the Asia- Pacific Theatre of War", J.R. Cleworth (2000)
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some of it may be incorrect or incomplete, hence the creator of this website and/or any
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any corrections or additional information will be most welcome.
This page first produced 26 December 2000
This page last updated 26 December 2000
