Innovative Australian Cabin Monoplane and Trainer - 1950s

This aircraft was built in the first production year of the Model 35 'V' tail Bonanzas. They were fast and sophisticated aircraft for the time and continue to enjoy a good reputation with pilots. There is even a Bonanza Owners Club for the enthusiasts. The Museum's aircraft was originally registered in the US as N3256V and came to Australia as a competitor in the World Vintage Air Rally in 1990. The Rally was organised for aircraft pre-1950 vintage, to fly from the UK to Australia to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the flight of Parer and McIntosh in their de Havilland DH9.

Twenty three aircraft started in the Rally but eleven pulled out due to mechanical or other problems. Unfortunately our aircraft was among the eleven. However, it eventually arrived in Australia and was placed on the Australian Register as VH-ANU. Subsequently the Bonanza suffered an engine failure on take off and made an emergency landing on a mud flat, sustaining some damage to the fuselage. The recovery process caused more damage and the engine and propeller were impounded by CASA. While in storage the top engine cowl mysteriously disappeared.

The aircraft was then purchased in its damaged state by a Qantas engineer, Mr. Ben Bostick whose father had flown the type extensively. After dismantling the aircraft further he coincidentally retired from Qantas and found that rather than having the leisure to enjoy his hobby, he was busier than ever. Given his affection for the aircraft a museum was the only possible home for it, where it would receive the care and attention Ben felt it deserved.

Donated by Mr. Ben Bostick

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