Melton to unveil monuments to Australia's first power, controlled flight

ROB MACKAY
29 December 2009

HARRY HOUDINI, made history in Diggers Rest when he made the first power, controlled flight in Australia. It is only fitting that 100 years later that our country will remember that historical occasion. The Melton Shire Council, local historians, government officials, and aviation dignitaries will mark the 100 anniversary in a small reserve, 35 kilometres north west of Melbourne.

The history and events of Diggers Rest will feature in a series of interpretive signage panels on the Caroline Chisholm Gold Shelter at the Houdini Reserve. Eight stories with artwork will trace the early days of the gold miners travels, the famous Houdini flight, then through to the Sunbury rock festival.

A monument with tall poles to echo the grass lands, and a structure that is influenced by Houdini’s Voisin Biplane, are set to remind viewers of the dreams and aspirations of early aviators. The angled text and blue forms will ensure that future travellers and local people will know the significance of Harry Houdini's contribution to Australia's history.

Both the monument and the interpretive history of Diggers Rest will be unveiled at the Commemoration Ceremony on Thursday 18 March 2010 at Stan Payne Reserve, Diggers Rest.  

For more information contact Council’s Tourism and Events team on 9747 7200.