DAWN OF THE AUSTRALIAN
JET AIRLINER - 1959
As
the nation celebrates the 75th anniversary of the opening of
the Sydney Harbour Bridge, it is appropriate that this Australian
icon should feature in Nikyla's latest painting of an Australian
aviation icon. The painting captures the arrival in Australia
of VH-EBA, the first Boeing 707-138 ordered by Qantas and the
first jet aeroplane on the Australian Register of Civil Aircraft.
The release of this painting, the first of three commissioned
by Qantas, coincides with VH-EBA's triumphant return to Australia
for permanent display at the Qantas Founders Outback Museum
in Longreach. Apart from its significance to Australia, this
aeroplane is an exhibit of world significance as it was also
the first American jet airliner sold to a foreign customer.
Thanks to the efforts of many dedicated volunteers who recognised
the aeroplane's heritage value to the nation, VH-EBA will now
be preserved for future generations to admire.