Here at Hinkler Park, history takes flight. This park commemorates Bert Hinkler. He was a pioneering aviator born in 1892.
Hinkler Park runs along Warialda Street in Katoomba. The plaque honoring him is mounted on the picnic shed wall. Bert Hinkler’s story is truly inspiring. He was the son of a mill worker from Bundaberg.
Young Bert was fascinated by flight. In 1911 and 1912, he built man-carrying gliders. He successfully flew them at Mon Repos Beach near Bundaberg. His passion led him to England in 1913. There, he worked for the Sopwith Company.
During World War One, Bert served with distinction. He earned the Distinguished Service Medal. After the war, he joined A.V. Roe & Co. in Southampton in 1919. From 1921 to 1926, he became their Chief Test Pilot.
Bert Hinkler set many aviation records between 1920 and 1931. He made the first solo flight from England to Australia in 1928. He also completed the first solo flight across the South Atlantic in 1931.
Tragically, Bert Hinkler died on January 7, 1933. He was attempting another solo flight from England to Australia. He is buried in Florence, Italy.
Katoomba decided to honor Hinkler. The Lurline Street Park was renamed Hinkler Memorial Park. This was done to perpetuate his memory. The council made this decision in 1933.
Alderman Packer supported the motion. He said that no arguments were necessary to perpetuate Hinkler’s name. Another Alderman added that a children’s playground would remind them of a great Australian.
Mrs. Hinkler, Bert’s mother, officially opened Hinkler Park on November 27, 1934. She said her son loved Katoomba for its beautiful scenery. The park cost about 3500 pounds. Lurline and Katoomba Streets form two of its boundaries.
Hinkler Park offers a shelter shed and toilets. It also has a children’s play area. This makes it a popular spot.
Look closely at the commemorative plaque on the shelter. It features an engraving of one of Hinkler’s planes. It is the one in which he died in 1933.
Hinkler Park is more than just a park. It is a tribute to a remarkable aviator. It reminds us of Bert Hinkler’s courage. It celebrates his pioneering spirit.