Summary
Glass tray manufactured to commemorate the London to Australia air race, one of the more ambitious celebratory events held during Melbourne's centenary year, 1934. It saw 20 aeroplanes set out from Mildenhall near London for Flemington Racecourse. The event was proposed by Melbourne's Lord Mayor Harold Gengoult-Smith in 1930, who perceived it as a means to demonstrate Australia's close link with England. A sponsor was sought and found in the chocolate manufacturer and self-promoter Sir Macpherson Robertson. He stipulated that the race be named after him and that it 'be organised to be as safe as possible'. Twelve of the 20 competitors made it safely to Melbourne. The winning crew of Charles Scott and Tom Campbell Black, flying the Comet 'Grosvenor House', completed the course in just under three days.
Physical Description
Rounded rectangular moulded glass tray with fluted sides. The underside etched with images from left to right of Great Britain, four aeroplanes and Australia. Text etched above and below image.
More Information
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Collecting Areas
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Acquisition Information
Donation from Mr Michael Reason, 23 Dec 2013
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Date Made
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Other Association (See Comments)
Sir MacPherson Robertson - MacRobertson Pty. Ltd., Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 1934
Sponsor of London-Melbourne Centenary Air Race. -
Inscriptions
Text etched into glass: VICTORIAN AND MELBOURNE/ CENTENARY; 1934-1935
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Classification
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Category
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Discipline
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Type of item
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Overall Dimensions
255 mm (Length), 110 mm (Width), 22 mm (Depth), 22 mm (Height)
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Keywords
Air Races, Aviation, Centennial Air Race, London to Melbourne, 1934, Melbourne Centenary, 1935, Promotional Souvenirs, Victoria Centenary, 1934-1935
