The Opening of Parliament House in 1927 was at that time the largest event ever mounted in Canberra. There was a large military presence including a contingent of RAAF aircraft. During the afternoon low level formation flypast an SE5A biplane, piloted by Flying Officer Francis Ewen, dived to the ground. Despite valiant efforts to save him, Ewen died later that day. This Walk will visit a newly discovered crash site, and raise a number of questions about the cause of the crash and the investigation into it. To add a further mysterious element to the Walk we will then visit other related sites that will be revealed on the day!

Meet: Front of National Library, Parkes - free parking available in Library carpark.

Walk Leader:  Susan O'Leary

Bad weather:  Unless otherwise advised by email, we will be at the meeting point where a decision will be made as to whether to proceed or postpone.

Note:  For the comfort and safety of other walkers, we do not allow dogs on our walks.

Audio tour guide system: we will be using our new audio tour guide system to help the hard of hearing and to assist in physical distancing. We have two types of earphones - one fits over the ear (not in) and the other over the head. You are welcome to bring your own earphones (with a normal phone jack ie not an Apple lightning connector). The receivers and earphone will be sanitised and you will also be asked to use hand sanitiser before use. The use of the system is optional.

COVID-19 safety: Please check the current ACT health guidelines on protecting yourself and others before booking on this walk. Please note that you must cancel if you are unwell (a refund will be provided on request); you should maintain physical distancing of 1.5 metres from other people during the walk and observe good hygiene to prevent the spread of germs. If required, your contact details will be provided to health authorities. For this reason, we are now asking for your phone number. Hand sanitiser will be available before and during the Walk.

Refund Policy: If cancelled more than 7 days prior to the date, a refund will be given. Heritage Walks are booked via Eventbrite and can be cancelled via Eventbrite.

As we regularly have a waiting list for Walks, we appreciate early notice of cancellation so we can offer places to those on the waiting list.