Think of a time when engineering met the boundless sky. Right here at the Aeronautical Engineering Building, we uncover a story of innovation. It is a story of how Sydney became a hub for aeronautical advancement.
Aeronautics found its roots at the University of Sydney in 1931. The G. A. Taylor Memorial Lectureship in Aeronautics marked the beginning. It was established in 1929 thanks to a generous gift. The gift came from the G. A. Taylor Memorial Committee.
In 1937, the winds of war stirred change. The Federal Government investigated aeronautical research and training in Australia. An English Aeronautics expert, H.E. Wimperis, wrote the report. He urged more funding for engineering research. He specifically wanted universities to take on research roles. Wimperis also suggested a Chair and Department of Aeronautics. This would ensure a steady supply of aeronautical engineers.
Sydney and Melbourne vied for the Chair. Both universities had already ventured into aeronautics. Sydney won the Chair from the Federal Government. Melbourne received an Associate Professorship in Meteorology as compensation. The decision considered Melbourne’s existing aerodynamics laboratory and large wind tunnel. Awarding the Chair to Sydney aimed to boost research across Australia.
In September 1938, the Vice-Chancellor announced Commonwealth support. Financial assistance would establish a Chair of Aeronautics. It would also provide aeronautical and hydrodynamical equipment. A significant sum was allocated for capital expenditure. An annual amount covered maintenance. The State Government also granted funds for a hydrodynamics laboratory.
The search for a suitable Chair proved challenging. The British Air Ministry rejected the first candidate due to his nationality. Dr. Ludwig Hopf became a reader instead. Arthur Stephens, an experienced pilot, was chosen. However, he did not arrive until 1941 because the British Air Ministry needed him.
In December 1940, the Senate approved the Aeronautical Engineering degree by-laws. The four-year degree began with general engineering courses. The final two years focused on aeronautical engineering and aerodynamics.
Professor A.V. Stephens, the Foundation Professor, retired in 1956. Before his departure, Dr. Agnes Bennett donated to the University. The donation honored her parents’ interest in the Engineering department. The funds supported research on supersonics. The laboratory was named after William and Agnes Bennett.
W.H. Wittrick succeeded Stephens. He gained the first PhD in Aeronautical Engineering from Sydney University. His work focused on aircraft structural issues. He embraced the University’s first computer facility, Silliac. It became essential to the Department’s research.
In 1964, G.A. Bird, a Sydney graduate, became Chair. He oversaw significant changes and expansion. By the 1960s, the curriculum diversified. Elective courses were introduced in the fourth year.
The 1970s and 1980s emphasized research in fluid and solid mechanics. In 1980, the Department acquired a Perkin Elmer computer. This greatly improved research efficiency.
Following Bird’s retirement in 1990, G.P. Steven became Chair. He led a department renowned for research excellence.
In 2001, the Department of Aeronautical Engineering merged. It joined the Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering. Together they formed the School of Aerospace, Mechanical, and Mechatronic Engineering.
In 2020, Aerospace Engineering partnered with agencies and industries. They combined capabilities to develop aerospace systems. These systems addressed challenges in security, aviation, and space exploration.
From its early lectureships to modern aerospace partnerships, Aeronautical Engineering at the University of Sydney has soared. It continues to shape Australia’s role in the global aerospace arena.