Click here to watch FILM of the historic flight in Diggers Rest by Harry Houdini.Click here for our PICTURE GALLERY of the historic flight in Diggers Rest by Harry Houdini.
ONE hundred years ago escapologist and showman Harry Houdini performed one of his greatest acts when he took to the sky in a flimsy biplane. It is claimed that on March 18, 1910, Houdini became the first man in Australia to make a powered, controlled and sustained flight.
This week Melton will celebrate the historic aviation event with a three-day Festival of Flight. Glyn Butchard, standing under a DC3 that will be part of the airshow, is among those organising the event.
Picture: Darren Howe
WHAT'S ON TO CELEBRATE
■Commemorat ion ceremony: Stan Payne Reserve, Diggers Rest, on Thursday, March 18, between 11am and noon. Includes launch of a legacy project, flyovers and magic displays.
■Houdini Centenary Air Show: Saturday, March 20, at Melton Airfield, Coburns Road, Toolern Vale (Melway 330, H3), from 9am-5pm. Includes flying display (11am-3pm), aircraft displays and joy flights. Tickets $20 for adults and $10 for children.
■Festival of Flight: Sunday, March 21, at Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve, 11am-4pm. Free event, including live entertainment, auto and aircraft show, swap meet.
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