Members of the community joined Benalla Rural City councillors and members of the Baird family for the official opening of the sculpture honouring aviation legend Arthur Baird.
Photo by
Simon Ruppert
Arthur Baird was born and educated in Benalla and would go on to make significant contributions to aviation engineering.
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He was one of the first three employees of Qantas and was instrumental in setting up the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
The Rose City’s memorial to him was officially opened by Mayor Danny Claridge on Saturday, June 22.
Taking Flight is an impressive tribute commissioned by Victorian artist Alex Sanson to honour Baird's legacy.
Cr Claridge said the project was passionately driven by Benalla’s Barry O'Connor and came to fruition thanks to the tireless efforts of local volunteers.
“It is based on the De Havilland DH50 aircraft and is carefully balanced to move freely in the wind and look almost as if it's flying among the trees,” he said.
The memorial to Arthur Baird is located near Benalla Library.
Photo by
Simon Ruppert
Mr O’Connor spoke to the gathered crowd and thanked all involved, specifically Beverly Chick Walker, Pam Herbert and Beryl Illsley.
“I’d also like to acknowledge the contribution from the Baird family, and thank the staff at Benalla Rural City, as well as former mayor Scott Upston, who was mayor when the project commenced.”
Members of the community gathered to see Benalla's latest sculpture officially opened.
Photo by
Simon Ruppert
Arthur Baird’s great-nephew Leon Baird spoke at the opening.
“Our family have been in the Benalla area since April 6, 1852 when William and Ann Baird first arrived in Australia,” he said.
“Arthur was my grandfather’s brother, and we have someone here today who knew him, our 102-year-old aunt Jean Follecki, Arthur’s niece.
“Thank you, to everyone who made this happen.
“Especially to the artist, Alex (Sanson), for creating such an appropriately, innovative, and dynamic artwork.
“It is certainly an elegant and fitting tribute to Arthur as a pilot and engineer.”
Mr O’Connor said the Benalla Family Research Group (BFRG) were selling memorial books telling the story of Arthur Baird at the opening.
There are copies of the book available, which can be bought from the BFRG at its Church St headquarters. Simply visit on Tuesdays or Wednesdays between 10am and 4pm.
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