RAAF Catalina A24-46 at Whaleworld

Wed Jul 18, 2007 2:37 pm

The former RAAF PBY-5 Catalina A24-46 was for some years displayed in partially restored condition at John Bell's Whaleworld Museum at Albany, WA but, following his death a few years back, the Catalina was auctioned. Does any reader know where this airframe went to after leaving Albany (assuming it has left and isn't stored on-site somewhere) and where it is now?

The identity is c/n 1186 ex BuAer08272 (not as misquoted in my book on Peacetime Catalinas incidentally)

Wed Jul 18, 2007 7:18 pm

The topic was discussed on the warbirdz site - Scandinanvia?

http://www.warbirdz.net/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=594&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=15

Some great pictures and info in this post.

regards

Peter

Wed Jul 18, 2007 9:55 pm

David A24-46 was purchased privately in WA and will be remaining in WA for a static display outcome

regards

Mark Pilkington

Thu Jul 19, 2007 2:43 am

And if could turn at the PBY wingtip, you would find the Kingfisher.

Regards

Col

Thu Jul 19, 2007 2:40 pm

Thanks for directing me to the earlier thread which was before my time on WIX so not previously seen. I do not think A24-46 ever came to Europe - if it did, it went completely unreported. So, it sounds as if it is still in WA but, given the rather vague reference that Mark Pilkington makes to it (no offence), is there still some degree of secrecy as to who owns it and where it is situated

Fri Jul 20, 2007 7:01 am

David,

as shown in the other older thread I myself thought this one had left Australia, however I have since been in contact with the owner and my earlier comment is accurate but brief as he seeks to remain anonomous and to minimise publicity of his intentions at this time, and I need to respect that confidence.

regards

Mark Pilkington