CRASH OF A WIRRAWAY
NEAR AMBERLEY AIRFIELD, QLD
ON 24 APRIL 1941
IN AUSTRALIA DURING WWII

On 24 April 1941, Wirraway A20-194 of 3 Service Flying Training School 3 SFTS piloted by Flight Lieutenant John Beresford Hawdon (265) crashed near Amberley Airfield whilst night flying. The Wirraway turned on to its back at approximately 2,000 feet and dived, striking the ground almost vertically killing the pilot Flight Lieutenant Hawdon. The aircraft was written off. The funeral for F/Lt Hawdon was held on 27 April 1941.

Can anyone help me with more information on this crash?

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This page first produced 13 February 2026

This page last updated 13 February 2026