CONTENTS
	LOCKHEED OR VEGA?
	LIST OF RAAF B-34 VENTURAS
	LIST OF RAAF PV-1 VENTURAS
	MSN TO RAAF SERIAL CROSS REFERENCE
	ALMOST VENTURA SQUADRONS
	NON COMBAT USAGE
	COMMUNICATION UNITS
	NO. 1 OPERATIONAL TRAINING UNIT
	UNIT LOCATIONS
	POSTWAR DISPOSITION
	ABBREVIATIONS
	THE VENTURA AMBULANCE
	NO 13 SQUADRON (separate page)

Lockheed or Vega?

Like the Hudson before it which was a military derivative of the Lockheed Model 14 Super Electra, the Ventura was a military derivative of the Lockheed Model 18 Lodestar.

By 1940, Lockheed was building the Hudson and the P-38 Lightning in its Burbank Plant B-1 and did not have the capacity to build the Ventura there, so decided to build the Model 37 in the Vega Airplane Company’s Plant A-1 at the Union Air Terminal in Burbank. The Vega Airplane Company, formed in August 1937 as the AiRover Company and renamed Vega Airplane Company in 1938, was a wholly owned subsidiary of Lockheed that had been established to build light, general aviation aircraft. Vega was merged with Lockheed on 31 December 1941 and finally absorbed in November 1943. (Source: 11)

Thus the Ventura was a Lockheed design that was built by the Vega Airplane Company which was a wholly owned subsidiary of Lockheed. The above data plate from MSN 4506 would appear to spell it out in no uncertain terms that it was the Vega Ventura. While some twenty-first century sources refer to the "Boeing DC-3" there can be no doubt that it is correct to refer to the Ventura as either a Vega product or a Lockheed product.

L-137-27-02
B-34 VENTURA MK IIA

Two hundred B-34 were ordered for the RAF under Lend-Lease as Ventura Mk IIA with RAF serials FD568 to FD767. These aircraft were also allocated USAAF serials for contractual purposes. In the event, only 25 were delivered to the RAF with the remainder being diverted to Commonwealth air forces and some being retained by the USAAF as RB-34 (the R indicating limited combat capability). Twenty RB-34A-VE were delivered to the RAAF in advance of the more capable USN version which was designated PV-1. It should be noted that many RAAF serials were not issued in MSN sequence. Please refer to the cross reference table at the foot of the page. In instances where there are conflicting dates between the 13SQ ORB and the aircraft Status Cards, preference has been given to the ORB.

RAAF	MSN	MODEL	USAAF	RAF	CALL SIGN
A59-1	137-4707	RB-34A-VE	41-38051	FD599	-
18MAY43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
29DEC43	Received at 13SQ.
02AUG45	Received at 2AD for storage.
24JUN48	Passed to DAP for disposal.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-2	137-4710	RB-34A-VE	41-38054	FD602	-
18MAY43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
18SEP44	Received at 1AD Ferry Flight.
07NOV44	Received at 1APU for trials of SCR717 radar equipment.
30NOV44	Received at 2AP for trials with the Radiophysics Laboratory.
14FEB45	Received at 2AD ex 2AP.
20MAR45	Received at 1APU for further radar trials.
21OCT45	Received at 7AD for storage ex 1APU.
03APR52	Offered for disposal ex 7AD Tocumwal.
A59-3	137-4715	RB-34A-VE	41-38059	FD607	-
18MAY43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
29JUN44	Issued 1AD Ferry Flight for escort duties.
12DEC44	Starboard undercarriage collapsed on landing at Mallacoota, Vic.
23DEC44	Approval given to convert to components.
20FEB45	Issued to 1CRD ex 1AD.
A59-4	137-4716	RB-34A-VE	41-38060	FD608	-
18MAY43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
25JUN43	Issued to 1AD ex 2AD for determination of loading details.
26JUN43	Received at SDF ex 1AD.
04JUL43	Received at 1AD ex SDF.
28OCT43	Received at SDF ex 1AD for take-off and landing tests.
13DEC43	Aircraft to be retained at 1PU until 20DEC for engine cooling tests. Allotted to 1AD on completion. The meaning of SDF is unknown but this entry implies that SDF was co-located with 1PU/1APU at Laverton.
10JAN44	Allotted to 1APU for engine cooling trials.
01MAY44	Received at 2AD ex 1APU for 240 hourly inspection.
15NOV45	To be stored.
24JUN48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-5	137-4723	RB-34A-VE	41-38067	FD615	-
18MAY43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
28DEC43	Received at 13SQ.
28APR44	Received at 2AD.
05JAN45	Approval given to convert to components.
06SEP49	Sold by DAP.
A59-6	137-4735	RB-34A-VE	41-38079	FD627	-
18MAY43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
01JAN44	Received at 13SQ.
04MAY44	Received at 2AD.
25AUG44	Issued 2AP Ferry Flight for escort duties.
18JUL45	Received at 1OTU.
10JAN46	Received at 7AD for storage.
17FEB53	Sold to F.E. Hendy, Numurkah, Vic. The aircraft was broken up at Tocumwal and only components were transported to Numurkah. See also A59-17.
A59-7	137-4741	RB-34A-VE	41-38085	FD633	-
18MAY43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
05JAN44	Received at 13SQ.
28APR44	Received at 2AD.
05JAN45	Approval given to convert to components.
02NOV48	Passed to DAP for disposal.
A59-8	137-4742	RB-34A-VE	41-38086	FD634	-
18MAY43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
28DEC43	Received at 13SQ.
03MAY44	To 2AD.
15NOV44	Issued 1AD Ferry Flight later 1AD Test and Ferry SQ.
12MAR46	Issued 1AD for storage.
19MAY48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 1AD, Laverton.
08AUG49	Disposal action completed. Photo proof of scrapping at Laverton early 50s.
A59-9	137-4764	RB-34A-VE	41-38108	FD656	-
18MAY43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
23NOV43	Received at 2SQ.
25DEC43	Issued 1AD ex 2SQ.
14APR44	Received 1OTU, East Sale, Vic.
23FEB45	Struck ground at high speed near East Sale. All 6 crew killed.
19MAR45	Approval given for conversion to components.
A59-10	137-4777	RB-34A-VE	41-38121	FD669	-
18MAY43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
30DEC43	Received at 13SQ.
12MAY44	Received at 2AD.
05JAN45	Approval given to convert to components.
02NOV48	Passed to DAP for disposal.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-11	137-4713	RB-34A-VE	41-38057	FD605	-
21JUN43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
25FEB44	Received at 13SQ.
01MAY44	Received at 2AD.
26JUL44	Issued to 2AP for 14 days trial flying on escort duties. To report on conclusion.
15AUG44	Allotted 2AP Ferry Flight for escort duties.
22NOV44	Received at 3AD ex 2AP for 240 hourly inspection.
01OCT46	To be stored 3AD.
14NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
07OCT48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 3AD Amberley.
10MAR50	Sold by DAP and cleared from the area.
A59-12	137-4718	RB-34A-VE	41-38062	FD610	-
21JUN43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
03MAR44	Received at 13SQ.
04MAY44	Received at 2AD.
21AUG44	Issued 2AP for escort duties.
24OCT44	Fitted with VHF at 1AD
29DEC44	Received at 2AD.
25FEB45	Forced landing at Wyong due engine failure.
15MAY46	Received at 2AD Storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-13	137-4720	RB-34A-VE	41-38064	FD612	-
21JUN43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
15MAR44	Received at 13SQ. Aircraft was unserviceable so was returned to 2AD next day. Did not return to 13SQ.
16MAR44	Received at 2AD.
04JUL44	Received at 1AD Ferry Flight for escort duties.
04JUN45	Ran off the runway at Jackson's Strip, Port Moresby when port tyre burst on take-off. The port undercarriage collapsed but there were no injuries.
22JUN45	Received at 15ARD for repair.
01OCT45	Issued 1AD Ferry Flight ex 15ARD.
06DEC45	Received at 7AD for storage.
08APR52	Offered for disposal ex 7AD Tocumwal. (Final entry on card).
A59-14	137-4721	RB-34A-VE	41-38065	FD613	-
21JUN43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
06FEB44	Received at 13SQ.
05MAY44	Received at 2AD.
08SEP44	Issued 13ARD / 3 Reserve Pilot Pool at Breddan, Qld as escort aircraft to replace A59-5.
20OCT44	Collided with a radio mast at Mackay, Qld. Pilot was later dismissed by court martial for low flying. The Mackay Daily Mercury of Saturday 21 October 1944 states that the incident occurred "yesterday".
10NOV44	Field repairs completed at Mackay.
09APR45	Received at 1AD Test & Ferry SQ.
17APR46	Received at 1AD Storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
19MAY48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 1AD, Laverton.
08AUG49	Disposal action completed.
A59-15	137-4722	RB-34A-VE	41-38066	FD614	-
21JUN43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
01FEB44	Received at 13SQ.
04MAY44	Received at 2AD.
15NOV45	To be stored at 2AD.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-16	137-4725	RB-34A-VE	41-38069	FD617	-
21JUN43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
07SEP43	Received at 1AD ex 2AD.
20MAY44	Received at 1OTU ex 1AD.
04APR46	Received at CMU Tocumwal ex 1OTU.
08APR53	Offered for disposal ex CMU, Tocumwal. (Final entry on card).
A59-17	137-4747	RB-34A-VE	41-38091	FD639	-
21JUN43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
04JUL44	Received at 1AD Test Pilots Training Flight after fitment of dual controls and extra pilot seat. To be held in lieu of Hudson.
17AUG45	Received at 15ARD for repair.
07MAR46	Received at CMU Tocumwal.
01OCT46	To be stored.
08APR52	Offered for disposal ex CMU, Tocumwal.
17FEB53	Instruments, fittings, gear and undercarriage sold to F.E. Hendy, Numurkah, Vic for £20/-/-. The aircraft was broken up at Tocumwal and only components were transported to Numurkah. See also A59-6.
A59-18	137-4781	RB-34A-VE	41-38125	FD673	-
-	NOTE: The USAAF serial for this aeroplane is duplicated on the Status Card for A59-20 (which see).
19AUG43	Received 1AD, Laverton.
25MAY44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
15NOV45	To be stored.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-19	137-4786	RB-34A-VE	41-38130	FD678	-
19AUG43	Received 1AD, Laverton.
02JAN44	Received at 13SQ.
08MAY44	Received at 2AD.
15NOV45	To be stored.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-20	137-4828	RB-34A-VE	41-38172	FD720	-
-	NOTE: The Status Card for A59-20 records its USAAF serial as 41-38125 which is duplicated with A59-18. A document obtained from archives lists the USAAF serials of all 20 RB-34 aircraft supplied to the RAAF. These aircraft were delivered in three batches of 10, 7 and 3 aircraft. Although the aircraft were delivered to Australia in random USAAF serial order, RAAF serials were issued in sequence with the USAAF serials in each batch. On this basis, it is fairly certain that the correct USAAF serial for A59-20 is 41-38172 as shown above.
19AUG43	Received 1AD, Laverton.
05JUL44	Received at 2AD ex 1AD.
15NOV45	To be stored.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.

L-237-27-01
PV-1 VENTURA

Serials A59-21 to A59-49 were not allocated. It should be noted that many RAAF serials were not issued in MSN sequence. Please refer to the cross reference table at the foot of the page. In instances where there are conflicting dates between the 13SQ ORB and the aircraft Status Cards, preference has been given to the ORB.

RAAF	MSN	MODEL	USN	CALL SIGN
A59-50	237-5330	PV-1	33321	-
20JUN43	Departed Honolulu.
23JUN43	Received 3AD, Amberley.
24JUN43	Received at 2AD Richmond.
28JUN43	Received at 1AD Laverton for weighing and technical evaluation.
03JUL43	Ground-looped at Laverton with minor damage.
16DEC43	Allocated 1AD for installation of prototype SCR729.
14JUN44	Received at 1APU for error determination of SCR729.
31OCT44	Issued 1AD Ferry Flight ex 1APU.
21JAN45	Ran off strip at unknown location after tyre blew out on landing. Minor damage to aircraft.
27FEB45	Received at 13ARD for repair.
28FEB45	Received at 1AD Test & Ferry SQ ex 13ARD.
13MAY46	Received at 1AD Storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
19MAY48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 1AD.
08AUG49	Disposal action completed. Photo proof of scrapping at Laverton early 50s.
A59-51	237-5325	PV-1	33316	VHRGM
23JUN43	Departed Honolulu.
26JUN43	Received at 3AD, Amberley.
10SEP43	Received at 13SQ.
25OCT43	Port undercarriage collapsed at Bundaberg, Qld while taxying on soft surface. Did not return to 13SQ.
18NOV43	Received at 3AD for repair.
22FEB45	To be converted to transport.
27MAY45	Received at 11CU. Used call-sign VHRGM.
17AUG45	Morotai-Manila flown by F/O M. Boyd with the AOC. (Source: 11CU ORB)
12SEP45	Morotai-Melbourne flown by F/O M. Boyd with MAJ GEN Lloyd. (Source: 11CU ORB)
20SEP45	Allotted 1AD for removal of turret and fitment of VHF.
23NOV45	Morotai-Melbourne flown by S/L C.E. Cox with AOC A/C R.J. Brownell. (Source: 11CU ORB)
16DEC45	Morotai-Madang-Morotai flown by S/L C.E. Cox with Commander Kinsford-Smith (sic). (Source: 11CU ORB) (Presumably Commander Eric Kingsford-Smith RAN - Smithy's brother).
22DEC45	Morotai-Balikpapan flown by F/L J. Rowell with GEN Milford. Last recorded movement with 11CU. (Source: 11CU ORB)
15MAR46	Received at 2AD Storage ex 11CU.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
24JUN48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-52	237-5453	PV-1	33444	VHRGN
16JUL43	Departed Honolulu.
19JUL43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
16AUG43	Received at 13SQ.
19OCT43	Dual control set returned to 1OTU via rail freight.
10NOV43	Struck tree during bombing exercise from Canberra. Damage to be repaired within unit.
07JAN44	Received at 14RSU ex 13SQ and not returned.
21MAR44	Received at 18RSU for completion of repairs.
19JUN44	Received at 2AD for completion of repairs.
22FEB45	To be converted to transport.
10APR45	Issued to 11CU for use by senior Army officers. Used call-sign VHRGN.
08JUN45	Hollandia-Morotai flown by S/L C.E. Cox with Army Survey Company. Accompanied by A59-80. (Source: 11CU ORB)
12JUL45	Morotai-Manila flown by S/L C.E. Cox with GEN Berryman. (Source: 11CU ORB)
15NOV45	Morotai-Balikpapan-Makassar flown by F/L J. Delany with BRIG Woodward. (Source: 11CU ORB)
13DEC45	Received at 2AD Storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-53	237-5455	PV-1	33446	-
16JUL43	Departed Honolulu.
19JUL43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
26AUG43	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-W.
26MAY44	Received at 1APU for finalisation of installation of SCR729 equipment.
28JUN44	Received at 13SQ.
06JUN45	Taxying accident at Gove due brake failure.
18JUL45	Received at 14ARD for repair.
10SEP45	Received at 1AD Test & Ferry SQ.
13SEP45	Received at 2AD Storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
24JUN48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-54	237-5542	PV-1	34652	-
20AUG43	Departed Honolulu.
25AUG43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
10SEP43	Received at 13SQ.
22NOV43	Crashed through a boundary fence and into a revetment in the N.E. corner of Archerfield, Qld at 1245 hrs on landing. Aircraft damaged beyond repair. Only minor injuries to crew.
25NOV43	Received at 3AD.
28DEC43	Approval given to convert to components (see below).
NOTE	The log book of Flt Sgt Frank Allen Bowden (13SQ) records several flights in A59-54 between Canberra, Coffs Harbour, Mascot and Essendon in the period 18-24APR44. This is inconsistent with the fate of the aircraft recorded on the status card and supported by the 13SQ ORB. RESOLVED - It is almost certain that these flights were in A59-64.
A59-55	237-5541	PV-1	34651	-
22AUG43	Departed Honolulu.
25AUG43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
16SEP43	Received at 13SQ.
07DEC43	Crashed and destroyed at Gundaroo, ACT on a training flight from Canberra. Five crew killed.
17DEC43	Received at 5AD Wagga Wagga.
23DEC43	Approval given to convert to components.
A59-56	237-5644	PV-1	34754	-
14SEP43	Departed Honolulu.
21SEP43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
03OCT43	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-T. Named Coffee Pot.
29DEC43	Ran through a boundary fence landing at Camden after brake failure. There was no subsequent allotment for repairs so evidently the aircraft was repaired within 13SQ.
24OCT44	Received at 14ARD for double engine change.
06DEC44	Received at 13SQ.
27JAN45	Crashed into sea off Bremer Island near Gove, N.T. while on a gunnery exercise. Three crew were killed and three survived.
18FEB45	Authorised for write-off.
A59-57	237-5645	PV-1	34755	VHRGO
01OCT43	Departed Honolulu.
06OCT43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
16OCT43	Received at 13SQ.
01NOV44	Received at 14ARD for maintenance and not returned to 13SQ.
10SEP45	Received at 12ARD ex 14ARD.
24OCT45	Allotted to 6CU for use by AOC replacing Beaufort A9-728. This allotment was cancelled three days later and there was no subsequent allotment for transport duties. This casts doubt on reports that the aircraft was converted to a transport. The radio call-sign VHRGO may have been planned but it seems unlikely that it was used. The ORB for 6CU does not mention a Ventura at this time.
13DEC45	Received at 7AD ex 12ARD.
01OCT46	To be stored.
08APR52	Offered for disposal ex 7AD Tocumwal. This is the last entry on the card.
A59-58	237-5748	PV-1	34858	-
22OCT43	Departed Honolulu.
25OCT43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
17NOV43	Received at 13SQ.
21JAN44	Damaged beyond repair at Camden. The aircraft over-ran the runway on landing, went through the boundary fence and collapsed the undercarriage. (The Status Card shows 01JAN44 but the 13SQ ORB shows 21JAN44)
05FEB44	Received at 2AD ex 13SQ.
15MAR44	2AD to forward starboard wing to Coffs Harbour for fitment to A59-61.
31AUG44	Received at 2CRD ex 2AD.
12SEP44	Approval given to convert to components.
A59-59	237-5750	PV-1	34860	-
22OCT43	Departed Honolulu.
25OCT43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
20NOV43	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-P.
25JAN45	Received at 4RSU for maintenance and not returned 13SQ.
16JUL45	Received at 1AD Ferry Flight, later 1AD Test & Ferry SQ.
17APR46	Received at 1AD Storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
19MAY48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 1AD.
08AUG49	Disposal action completed. Photo proof of scrapping at Laverton early 50s.
A59-60	237-5749	PV-1	34859	VHRGP
26OCT43	Departed Honolulu.
31OCT43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
25NOV43	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-O.
22MAR45	Landed at Gove with a blown tyre. The port undercarriage collapsed and the aircraft ground looped.
23APR45	Received at 14ARD for repair.
16JUN45	6CU ORB states; "AOC's Beaufort force landed at Tennant Creek on return from Melbourne. AOC and party rescued by Ventura next day." Neither aircraft is identified. See 17DEC45. Status Card identifies the AOC's Beaufort as A9-98 allotted 6CU on 10APR45.
16JUL45	Allotted to 11CU. Seats to be fitted at 5RSU Morotai from aircraft selected as replacement. (see below)
28AUG45	Allotment to 11CU cancelled.
	Reported to have used the radio call-sign VHRGP.
08SEP45	Received at 12ARD ex 14ARD.
17DEC45	Issued to 6CU for use by AOC in lieu A59-57. Note: 6CU disbanded at Darwin approx two weeks later on 30DEC45. The only mention of a Ventura in the 6CU ORB appears under 16JUN45 (see above).
04FEB46	Allotted 2AD ex 6CU for storage.
05MAR46	Received at 2AD Storage ex 6CU.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
24JUN48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
	NOTE: It is also reported that this aircraft was left with the NEIAF in Morotai. (Source: unknown)
A59-61	237-5882	PV-1	34992	VHRGQ
20DEC43	Departed Honolulu.
22DEC43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
20JAN44	Received at 13SQ. Fitted with dual controls. Coded SF-X and SF-U.
07MAR44	Crashed on landing, damaging the starboard mainplane.
08MAR44	Allotted 3AD for starboard mainplane change to be effected at Coffs Harbour.
15MAR44	Above allotment cancelled. Main plane change to be effected by 13SQ. 2AD to arrange to forward serviceable starboard mainplane ex A59-58 to Coffs Harbour for fitment.
25APR44	Stalled while landing during night circuits. Apparently the aircraft was undamaged as the next allotment was for a 240 hourly inspection at 4RSU in OCT44.
04JUN45	Received at 1AD Test & Ferry SQ to replace A59-89.
	Used call-sign VHRGQ.
24SEP45	Approval given for conversion to components.
22DEC45	Issued to 1CRD ex 1AD for conversion to components. Possibly the Ventura Ambulance
A59-62	237-5884	PV-1	34994	-
18DEC43	Departed Honolulu.
22DEC43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
26DEC43	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-T and SF-U.
02JUL45	Received at 2AD Ferry Flight.
12MAR46	Received at 2AD Storage.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-63	237-5885	PV-1	34995	VHRGR
20DEC43	Departed Honolulu.
22DEC43	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
26DEC43	Received at 13SQ.
27JUN45	Received at 2AD Ferry Flight.
09JUL45	Received at 1AD Test & Ferry SQ.
	Converted to transport. Used call-sign VHRGR.
09AUG45	Received at 7AD
26NOV45	Received at 1AD Test & Ferry SQ.
22MAY46	Issued to 1AD for storage.
13APR48	Approval granted for free issue to DCA for training purposes.
15OCT48	Departed Laverton by road with A59-90. See the Monegeetta Monster
10NOV48	Struck off charge.
A59-64	237-5985	PV-1	48749	-
11JAN44	Departed Honolulu.
14JAN44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
28JAN44	Issued to 14RSU ex 2AD for 40 hourly inspection.
30JAN44	Force landed near Mt Gambier, SA due engine failure.
10FEB44	Received at 2AP ex 14RSU.
12APR44	Received at 32SQ ex 2AD.
16APR44	Received at 13SQ ex 32SQ. Coded SF-H.
07FEB46	Received at 2AD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-65	237-5984	PV-1	48748	-
12JAN44	Departed Honolulu.
16JAN44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
21JAN44	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-R and SF-Z
06JAN46	Received at 2AD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-66	237-5986	PV-1	48750	-
12JAN44	Departed Honolulu.
16JAN44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
11MAR44	Received at 2AP for escort duty.
29MAR44	Received at 13SQ.
21AUG44	Damaged beyond repair at Camden, NSW when undercarriage collapsed on landing.
24AUG44	Received at 2AD.
24OCT44	Approval given to convert to components.
08NOV44	Received at 2CRD for conversion.
A59-67	237-6090	PV-1	48854	-
02FEB44	Departed Honolulu.
06FEB44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
24FEB44	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-F, SF-O and SF-K.
18JAN46	Received at 2AD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-67#2	237-5378	PV-1	33369	-
Extant Aircraft - see VH-SFF
A59-68	237-6091	PV-1	48855	-
08FEB44	Departed Honolulu.
10FEB44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
17MAR44	Received at 1OTU ex 2AD.
12APR44	Received at 32SQ ex 1OTU.
28APR44	Received at 2AP ex 32SQ for storage.
02JUN44	Received at 7SQ ex 2AP.
03JUL44	Received at 13ARD Reserve Pool ex 7SQ as reserve aircraft for 13SQ.
03JAN45	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-L.
06JAN46	Received at 2AD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-69	237-6135	PV-1	48899	-
29JAN44	Departed USA West Coast.
09FEB44	At Honolulu.
13FEB44	Departed Honolulu.
17FEB44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
14MAR44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
29APR44	Received at 13SQ ex 2AP. Coded SF-G and SF-W.
18JAN46	Received at 2AD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed. (Refer A59-70)
A59-70	237-6137	PV-1	48901	-
30JAN44	Departed USA West Coast.
09FEB44	At Honolulu
17FEB44	Departed Honolulu.
22FEB44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
14MAR44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
03JUN44	Received at 7SQ ex 2AP.
26JUN44	Received at 13ARD ex 7SQ as reserve aircraft for 13SQ.
01SEP44	Received at 13SQ ex 13ARDRP. Coded SF-Y.
15JAN45	Flown by Flying Officer A.G. Goudie, the aircraft was struck by gunfire during a low level attack on enemy shipping in Bima Harbour. The starboard engine was shut down and guns and ammunition were jettisoned. With careful fuel management, the aircraft returned safely to Gove. The navigator was E.G. Whitlam, later Prime Minister of Australia.
17DEC45	The 13SQ ORB states: "A59-69 unserviceable at Balikpapan. Permission granted for Flt Lt Geshke and crew to return 18 December. Leave aircraft." At this time 13SQ was within weeks of disbandment. It is likely that this entry should have referred to A59-70 at Koepang. At this time there was no mention of destroying the aircraft.
22DEC45	The 13SQ ORB states that Flt Lt Geshke proceeded south with A59-71 on this date.
08JAN46	A59-70 allotted to 2AD for storage.
16JAN46	The 13SQ Personnel Occurrence Report of 16JAN46 states that Flt Lt Geshke departed on 16JAN46 on posting to No 1 Personnel Depot. This was the last POR issued by 13SQ before disbandment. (Source: NAA, Series A10605)
09APR46	"Aircraft was flown into Koepang after developing engine trouble by Flt. Lt C.N. Geschke (sic) who had to leave the aircraft at Koepang on becoming ill. It has been decided not to return this aircraft to Australia and authority has been granted for its destruction." (Source: Status Card for A59-70) Evidently the aircraft had been forgotten and this is a post-war clean-up action. A similar entry under this date on the Status Card for A59-95 discusses its destruction at Singapore.
03JUN46	Confirmation that aircraft has been destroyed by NEI forces as instructed by RAAF HQ.
A59-71	237-6134	PV-1	48898	-
29JAN44	Departed USA West Coast.
11FEB44	At Honolulu.
24FEB44	Departed Honolulu.
27FEB44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
27APR44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
09MAY45	Received at 7SQ ex 2AP.
26JUN44	Received at 13ARD as reserve aircraft for 13SQ.
12OCT44	Received at 14ARDRP.
16OCT44	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-Q
31DEC44	Flown by Wg Cdr Keenan, operated the first armed reconnaissance over Ambon by a Ventura.
06JAN46	Received at 2AD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-72	237-6136	PV-1	48900	-
30JAN44	Departed USA West Coast.
09FEB44	At Honolulu.
26FEB44	Departed Honolulu.
29FEB44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
23APR44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
06MAY44	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-T and SF-F. Named Southern Job.
25NOV45	During take-off at Balikpapan ran off the strip into a drain and damaged beyond repair. No injuries.
18DEC45	Approval given to convert to components.
A59-73	237-6142	PV-1	48906	-
Extant Aircraft - see A59-73
A59-74	237-6198	PV-1	49382	-
22FEB44	Departed USA West Coast.
03MAR44	At Honolulu
11MAR44	Departed Honolulu.
14MAR44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
08JUN44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
29JAN45	Received at 2AD Care & Maintenance Section, Evans Head for storage.
09FEB45	Received at 1AOS, Evans Head for storage.
31MAR45	Damaged in a storm at Evans Head.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
06FEB48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex CMU, Evans Head, NSW.
25MAR49	Disposal action completed.
A59-75	237-6199	PV-1	49383	-
22FEB44	Departed USA West Coast.
03MAR44	At Honolulu
20MAR44	Departed Honolulu.
26MAR44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
26MAY44	Issued 7SQ ex 2AP.
01JUN44	Allotted 13ARD ex 7SQ for repairs. (Damage not specified)
13JUL44	Received 13ARDRP ex 13ARD.
06SEP44	Received 14ARDRP ex 13ARDRP
26SEP44	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-Q, SF-P and SF-U.
02OCT44	Landed at Gove, NT with undercarriage retracted.
05DEC44	Received at 4RSU after temporary repairs at 13SQ.
24FEB45	Received at 13SQ ex 14RSU.
04JUN45	Received at 14ARD for 240 hourly inspection.
05SEP45	Still at 14ARD. Parts from A59-73 being used.
03OCT45	Received at 2AD ex 14RSU for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-76	237-6200	PV-1	49384	-
24FEB44	Departed USA West Coast.
28FEB44	At Honolulu.
06MAR44	Departed Honolulu.
09MAR44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
12APR44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
01MAY44	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-E.
45	To Tokyo to work with the 1st Tactical Air Force (RAAF).
08NOV45	Damaged beyond repair when aircraft swung on take-off at Labuan. No injuries.
16NOV45	Received at 1RSU ex 13SQ.
18DEC45	Approval given to convert to components.
A59-77	237-6201	PV-1	49385	-
24FEB44	Departed USA West Coast.
28FEB44	At Honolulu.
06MAR44	Departed Honolulu.
13MAR44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
12APR44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
16MAY44	Received at 13SQ ex 2AP. Coded SF-D and SF-M.
18JAN46	Received at 2AD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-78	237-6244	PV-1	49428	-
19MAR44	Departed USA West Coast.
25MAR44	At Honolulu.
28MAR44	Departed Honolulu.
01APR44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
11MAY44	Received at 13SQ ex 2AP. Coded SF-J.
02JUN45	This aircraft required for conversion course for four Ventura crews prior departure for 1TAF.
28JUN45	Received at 14ARD ex 13SQ for 480 hourly inspection and double engine change.
19SEP45	Received at 13SQ ex 14ARD.
31DEC45	13SQ request allotment to 12ARD for repair (unspecified).
13JAN46	Received at 12ARD.
25FEB46	Received at 2AD ex 12ARD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for disposal.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-79	237-6245	PV-1	49429	-
19MAR44	Departed USA West Coast.
25MAR44	At Honolulu.
04APR44	Departed Honolulu.
07APR44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
23APR44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
18MAY44	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-B and SF-F.
24JUN45	Crashed on take-off at Gove.
11JUL45	Received at 14ARD ex 13SQ for repair.
09OCT45	Received at 2AD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-80	237-6246	PV-1	49430	VHRGS
12APR44	Departed USA West Coast.
20APR44	At Honolulu.
27APR44	Departed Honolulu.
01MAY44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
24JUL44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
21DEC44	Received at 2AD Evans Head for storage.
09FEB45	Received at 1AOS Evans Head for storage.
20MAR45	Received at 2AD.
22MAR45	Fitted with seats ex Lodestar A67-7 for personnel transport. Used call-sign VHRGS.
17APR45	Received at 11CU.
19APR45	Morotai-Hollandia-Lae-Torokina-Mareeba-Brisbane flown by F/L Patrick with BRIG Rogers. (Source: 11CU ORB)
01MAY45	Arrived 3AD for 40 hourly inspection. Cleaning tray caught fire and caused minor damage to aircraft resulting in a delay of only 48 hours.
07MAY45	Morotai-Leyte flown by F/O M. Boyd with W/C Thompson. (Source: 11CU ORB)
11MAY45	Allocated for use by Army.
08JUN45	Hollandia-Morotai flown by F/L N.I. McCahon with Army Survey Company. Accompanied by A59-52. (Source: 11CU ORB)
20JUN45	Morotai-Manila flown by F/L N.I. McCahon with BRIG Burham and Col. Booker. Manila-Morotai with Col. Wilson. (Source: 11CU ORB)
03AUG45	Morotai-Lae flown by F/L N.I. McCahon with Army officers. (Source: 11CU ORB)
23JUL45	Morotai-Manila flown by F/L N.I. McCahon with BRIG McCallum and Col. Morrow. (Source: 11CU ORB)
02OCT45	Morotai-Balikpapan flown by F/L J. Delany with GEN Northcote. (Source: 11CU ORB)
24OCT45	Morotai-Oakey flown by F/L J. Delany escorting 12 Spitfires. (Source: 11CU ORB)
31OCT45	Withdrawn from service.
05MAR46	Issued to 2AD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-81	237-6247	PV-1	49431	-
19MAR44	Departed USA West Coast.
25MAR44	At Honolulu.
04APR44	Departed Honolulu.
07APR44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
24APR44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
25MAY44	Received at 13SQ ex 2AP to replace A59-68. Coded SF-D. Named Wiff-Oh.
08OCT45	Slid off trestles during maintenance at Labuan. Damaged beyond repair.
16OCT45	Received at 1RSU ex 13SQ.
03DEC45	Approval given to convert to components.
A59-82	237-6248	PV-1	49432	VHRGT
19MAR44	Departed USA West Coast.
25MAR44	At Honolulu.
11APR44	Departed Honolulu.
14APR44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
26APR44	Received at 2AP Bankstown.
08MAY44	Damaged at 2AP when aircraft slipped off cradle during inspection.
23JUN44	Received at 2AD for repair ex 2AP.
12OCT44	Received at 2AP for storage.
20NOV44	Allotted 2AD Care & Maintenance Section, Evans Head ex 2AP.
05DEC44	Authority granted for use in collection of urgently required WT sets ex 6 Stores Depot for 452 SQ Spitfire Mk VIII.
06DEC44	Authority granted for use on escort duties for seven days in view unserviceability of B-34 aircraft.
03JAN45	Allocated to 2AD Ferry Flight for escorting P-40 to 75SQ ex 22RSURP.
29JAN45	Allotted to Pacific Echelon ex 2AD.
31JAN45	To be delivered to Leyte to check with 7TMO detachment Hollandia en route.
11MAR45	Issued to 11CU ex 2AD. Used call-sign VHRGT.
03APR45	Received at 11CU ex 2AD.
APR45	Detached to Manila for AOC Pacific Echelon. (Source: 11CU ORB)
08JUL45	Received 7AD ex 11CU for double engine change.
26AUG45	Issued to 11CU ex 7AD.
03SEP45	Received at 7AD ex 11CU for removal of equipment and installation of chairs.
01OCT45	Received at 11CU ex 7AD.
28NOV45	Morotai-Sydney flown by F/L J. Rowell with W/C Rose. (Source: 11CU ORB)
10JAN46	Morotai-Makassar flown by F/L J. Rowell with Army officers. No mention of return flight. (Source: 11CU ORB)
16JAN46	Morotai-Lae with Army officers. No mention of return flight. (Source: 11CU ORB)
04FEB46	Morotai-Melbourne flown by F/L J. Rowell with GEN Milford. Last recorded movement with 11CU. (Source: 11CU ORB)
13MAR46	Received at 2AD ex 11CU for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-83	237-6249	PV-1	49433	-
19MAR44	Departed USA West Coast.
25MAR44	At Honolulu.
11APR44	Departed Honolulu.
14APR44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
27APR44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD for storage.
26MAY44	Allotted to 7SQ.
03JUN44	Aircraft being fitted with dual controls.
09JUN44	Allotment to 7SQ cancelled. Re-allotted to 13SQ "may be issued if fitted with dual controls".
27JUL44	Received at 13SQ.
19OCT44	Ditched off West Island en route Gove to Higgins after double engine failure. Crew survived.
28OCT44	Approval for write-off. NEA to take necessary action to destroy aircraft.
13NOV44	Received at 1RSU ex 13SQ.
A59-84	237-6250	PV-1	49434	-
12APR44	Departed USA West Coast.
20APR44	At Honolulu
23APR44	Departed Honolulu.
12MAY44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
26JUN44	Issued temporarily to 2AP for P-40 escort duty.
26JUL44	Issued 2AP Ferry Flight.
29AUG44	"Now in storage" at 2AP.
25OCT44	Received at 13SQ ex 14ARDRP. Coded SF-N.
27JAN45	Crashed and burned on approach to Gould airstrip near Batchelor. All six crew killed.
31JAN45	Issued to 8CRD ex 13SQ.
23MAR45	Approval for write-off.
A59-85	237-6251	PV-1	49435	-
12APR44	Departed USA West Coast.
20APR44	At Honolulu.
27APR44	Departed Honolulu.
01MAY44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
29JUN44	Received at 2AP for storage.
24OCT44	Received at 14ARDRP ex 2AP.
25OCT44	Received at 13SQ ex 14ARDRP. Coded SF-R. Named Reluctant Dragon.
27NOV45	Tailwheel broken while taxying at Labuan.
04DEC45	Received at 1RSU for repair.
10JAN46	Received at 84OBU ex 1RSU.
30JAN46	Received at 2AD ex 84OBU for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-86	237-6252	PV-1	49436	VHRGU
12APR44	Departed USA West Coast.
20APR44	At Honolulu.
23APR44	Departed Honolulu.
12MAY44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
15AUG44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD for storage.
04NOV44	Received at 2AD ex 2AP.
13FEB45	Issued to 14ARDRP ex 2AD.
18FEB45	Received at 13SQ ex 14ARDRP. Coded SF-G and SF-C.
07MAR45	Gove-Townsville-Archerfield flown by F/O Dargie. Also flew a local test flight (40 min) at Townsville. (Source: 4CU ORB)
	Used the radio call-sign VHRGU but it is uncertain when this came into use.
15MAR45	Archerfield-Eagle Farm (30 min) flown by F/O Davies and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
15MAR45	Eagle Farm-Gove-Morotai-Leyte flown by F/O Davies with G/C Grant and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
17MAR45	Leyte-Morotai flown by F/O Dargie with G/C Grant and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
18MAR45	Morotai-Gove-Archerfield flown by F/O Dargie with G/C Grant and W/C Glasscock. (Source: 4CU ORB)
19MAR45	Local test flight Archerfield (30 min) flown by F/O Dargie. (Source: 4CU ORB)
19MAR45	Archerfield-Amberley-Archerfield-Eagle Farm-Darwin flown by F/O Dargie with AVM Bostock, G/C Candy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
21MAR45	Darwin-Morotai flown by F/O Davies with AVM Bostock, G/C Candy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
24MAR45	Morotai-Madang-Lae flown by F/O Dargie with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
25MAR45	Lae-Higgins-Archerfield flown by F/O Dargie with AVM Bostock and party (arrived 26MAR). (Source: 4CU ORB)
02APR45	Local test flight Archerfield (30 min) flown by F/O Dargie and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
05APR45	Archerfield-Eagle Farm test flight and ferry by F/O Dargie and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
05APR45	Eagle Farm-Gove flown by F/O Dargie with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
06APR45	Gove-Morotai flown by F/O Dargie with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
07APR45	Morotai-Leyte flown by F/O Dargie with G/C Thompson and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
08APR45	Leyte-Morotai flown by F/O Dargie with G/C Thompson and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
13APR45	Morotai-Coomalie-Darwin flown by F/O Dargie with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
14APR45	Darwin-Charleville-Archerfield flown by F/O Dargie with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
16APR45	Test flight at Archerfield and ferry to Eagle Farm flown by F/O Dargie and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
16APR45	Eagle Farm-Gove flown by F/O Dargie with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
17APR45	Gove-Morotai flown by F/O Dargie with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
18APR45	Morotai-Leyte-Morotai flown by F/O Dargie with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
20APR45	"Presently attached to 4CU for use by RAAF Command". (Source: Status Card)
23APR45	Morotai-Leyte-Morotai flown by F/O Dargie with G/C Munroe and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
27APR45	Morotai-Gove flown by F/O Dargie with G/C Grant and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
28APR45	Gove-Archerfield flown by F/O Dargie with G/C Grant and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
28MAY45	Force landed at Maryborough due weather. (Source: 4CU ORB)
29MAY45	Archerfield-Eagle Farm ferry flight by F/L Brannigan and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
30MAY45	Eagle Farm-Morotai flown by F/L Brannigan with A/C Candy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
01JUN45	Leyte-Morotai-Manila flown by F/L Brannigan with G/C Munro and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
02JUN45	Manila-Morotai flown by F/L Brannigan with G/C Munro and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
04JUN45	Morotai-Manila flown by F/L Brannigan with G/C Munro and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
05JUN45	Manila-Leyte-Morotai flown by F/L Brannigan with G/C Munro and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
08JUN45	Morotai-Leyte flown by F/L Brannigan with S/L Kennedy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
09JUN45	Leyte-Manila flown by F/L Brannigan with S/L Kennedy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
10JUN45	Manila-Morotai flown by F/L Brannigan with S/L Kennedy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
11JUN45	Morotai-Leyte-Gove flown by F/L Brannigan with S/L Kennedy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
12JUN45	Gove-Cloncurry-Archerfield flown by F/L Brannigan with S/L Kennedy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
13JUN45	Archerfield-Mascot flown by F/O Dargie with W/C Black and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
14JUN45	Mascot-Benalla-Archerfield flown by F/O Dargie with S/L Kennedy. (Source: 4CU ORB)
16JUN45	Local test flight Archerfield (25 min) flown by F/O Dargie and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
18JUN45	Archerfield-Maryborough flown by F/O Dargie and crew on a Radar Test with Sgt Richardson. (Source: 4CU ORB)
19JUN45	Maryborough-Archerfield-Cloncurry flown by F/O Dargie and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
05JUL45	Local fuel test flight (30 min) at Morotai by F/O Dargie and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
05JUL45	Morotai-Gove-Archerfield (arrived 07JUL) flown by F/O Dargie with A/C Candy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
08JUL45	Local test flight Archerfield (30 min) flown by F/O Davies and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
08JUL45	Archerfield-Eagle Farm-Gove-Morotai (arrived 10JUL) flown by F/O Dargie with A/C Candy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
17JUL45	Local test flight (15 min) Morotai flown by F/O Dargie and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
22JUL45	Morotai-Gove-Archerfield (arrived 23JUL) flown by F/O Dargie with A/C Candy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
03AUG45	Morotai-Samar-Morotai flown by F/O Dargie with G/C Armstrong and party. Previous arrival at Morotai is not recorded. (Source: 4CU ORB)
06AUG45	Morotai-Samar-Morotai flown by F/O Dargie to collect RAAF Command personnel but returned with nil pax. (Source: 4CU ORB)
07AUG45	Morotai-Darwin-Cloncurry-Archerfield (arrived 08AUG) flown by F/O Dargie with A/C Candy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
11AUG45	Archerfield-Eagle Farm-Gove-Morotai (arrived 12AUG) flown by F/O Dargie with RAAF Command personnel and LT COL Findlay. (Source: 4CU ORB)
13AUG45	Morotai-Gove-Archerfield (arrived 14AUG) flown by F/O Dargie with G/C Grant and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
16AUG45	"PEACE DAY celebrations. NIL flying." (Source: 4CU ORB)
20AUG45	Local test flight Archerfield (20 min) flown by F/O Dargie and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
28AUG45	Archerfield-Morotai with RAAF Command personnel. Nil other details. (Source: 4CU ORB)
03SEP45	Morotai-Labuan flown by F/O Dargie with G/C Grant and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
04SEP45	Labuan-Tawi Tawi-Morotai flown by F/O Dargie with G/C Grant and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
06SEP45	Morotai-Gove-Archerfield (arrived 07SEP) flown by F/O Dargie with G/C Grant and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
11SEP45	Archerfield-Eagle Farm-Townsville-Merauke-Morotai (arrived 12SEP) flown by F/O Dargie with personnel to Townsville en route Morotai to evacuate personnel. (Source: 4CU ORB)
13SEP45	Morotai-Samar-Morotai flown by F/O Dargie with RAAF Command personnel. (Source: 4CU ORB)
14SEP45	"Unit is 3 years old." (Source: 4CU ORB)
15SEP45	Morotai-Iron Range-Townsville-Archerfield (arrived 16SEP) flown by F/O Dargie with RAAF Command personnel. (Source: 4CU ORB)
18SEP45	Archerfield-Melbourne with A/C Candy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
25SEP45	Melbourne-Archerfield with G/C Cohen. (Source: 4CU ORB)
03OCT45	Archerfield-Amberley flown by F/O Dargie and crew for inspection at 3AD. (Source: 4CU ORB)
22NOV45	Amberley-Archerfield flown by F/O Dargie and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
23NOV45	Archerfield-Mascot-Laverton flown by F/O Dargie with 10 pax. (Source: 4CU ORB)
24NOV45	Laverton-Essendon-Archerfield flown by F/O Dargie. (Source: 4CU ORB)
27NOV45	Archerfield local (15 min) flown by F/O Dargie. Conversion of CO S/L Newstead. (Source: 4CU ORB)
29NOV45	Archerfield-Amberley-Archerfield flown by S/L Newstead with W/O Schilleman the only other crew plus 3 LACs as pax. (Source: 4CU ORB)
30NOV45	Archerfield-Amberley-Archerfield flown by S/L Newstead with W/O Schilleman the only other crew plus 3 LACs as pax. (Source: 4CU ORB)
03DEC45	Archerfield-Essendon flown by S/L Newstead plus 2 crew with personnel. (Source: 4CU ORB)
06DEC45	Essendon-Richmond flown by S/L Newstead plus 2 crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
10DEC45	Richmond-Archerfield flown by S/L Newstead and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
12DEC45	Archerfield-Kingaroy flown by S/L Newstead plus three crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
13DEC45	Kingaroy-Archerfield flown by S/L Newstead plus three crew and LTDonaldson as pax. (Source: 4CU ORB)
19DEC45	Archerfield-Amberley-Archerfield flown by S/L Newstead plus two crew (including F/L Albrecht). Local flying (40 min). (Source: 4CU ORB)
19DEC45	Allotted 2AD for storage.
03JAN46	Archerfield-Bundaberg-Archerfield flown by S/L Newstead and three crew plus two nurses to collect a medical case. (Source: 4CU ORB)
10JAN46	Archerfield-Oakey-Archerfield flown by S/L Newstead and three crew plus two nurses to navigate 4CU Kittyhawk A29-369 to 6AD Oakey and return pilot to Archerfield. (Source: 4CU ORB)
10JAN46	Local flying Archerfield (55 min) flown by F/O Paterson and three crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
15JAN46	Advice received that A59-86 is not to be delivered to 2AD until allotted B-25s arrive at 4CU ex 3AD. (Source: 4CU ORB)
23JAN46	Advice received from RAAF HQ that 4CU is to disband forthwith. (Source: 4CU ORB)
25JAN46	Local test flight (45 min) Archerfield flown by S/L Newstead plus four crew and four LACs as pax. (Source: 4CU ORB)
30JAN46	Archerfield-Bundaberg-Archerfield flown by F/L Albrecht plus two crew. "Duty" otherwise unspecified. Aircraft crashed during a forced landing with engine failure at Maryborough on the return flight. (Source: 4CU ORB)
	It would appear that F/L Albrecht was endorsed on the Ventura by S/L Newstead on 19DEC45. Although he had flown Beaufreighter and Beaufighter and other 4CU aircraft, it would appear that this was his first Ventura flight after being endorsed on the aeroplane.
26MAR46	Approval given to convert to components.
28MAR46	"Ventura A59-86 delivered to 3AD." (Source: 4CU ORB)
01APR46	Issued to 3AD Amberley ex 4CU for conversion to components. (Source: Status Card)
	There are reports that the airframe was buried at Maryborough.
16APR46	4CU disbanded. (Source: 4CU ORB)
A59-87	237-6253	PV-1	49437	-
19MAR44	Departed USA West Coast.
25MAR44	At Honolulu.
28MAR44	Departed Honolulu.
01APR44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
30MAY44	Starboard wheel collapsed while taxying after conversion flight and radio test. Repairable at 2AD.
01NOV44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD for storage.
03JAN45	Received at 2AD Care & Maintenance Evans Head for storage.
09FEB45	Received at 1AOS Evans Head for storage.
16APR45	Received at 1APU ex 1AOS for prototype fitment TR5043.
21JUN45	Following fuel system failure, both engines failed and the aircraft was landed wheels up at Kangaroo Valley, NSW while en route Laverton-Nowra-Williamtown. No injuries.
03JUL45	Received at 2CRD ex 1APU.
24JUL45	2CRD recommend aircraft be converted to components.
A59-88	237-6254	PV-1	49438	VHRGV
12APR44	Departed USA West Coast.
20APR44	At Honolulu.
27APR44	Departed Honolulu.
01MAY44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
26JUL44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD for storage.
20NOV44	Allotted 2AD Care & Maintenance Section Evans Head for storage.
15DEC44	Allocated to 2AP to escort eight Mk VIII Spitfires from 3AD to 457SQ pending availability of B-34 A59-12.
31DEC44	Received at 2AD Care & Maintenance Section Evans Head.
09FEB45	Received at 1AOS Evans Head for storage.
16MAR45	Received at 2AD ex 1AOS for conversion to transport.
22MAR45	Aircraft to proceed from 2AD to 11CU for fitment of chairs ex Lodestar.
17APR45	Received at 11CU. Used call-sign VHRGV.
11MAY45	For use by AOC First TAF.
20MAY45	Melbourne-Morotai flown by F/L F.N. Guthrie with the AOC. (Source: 11CU ORB)
15JUN45	Morotai-Manila flown by F/L F.N. Guthrie with W/C Nicholl and Sanga Sanga to Morotai with the AOC. (Source: 11CU ORB)
19JUN45	Morotai-Labuan flown by F/L F.N. Guthrie with the AOC. (Source: 11CU ORB)
02AUG45	Morotai-Melbourne flown by F/L F.N. Guthrie with G/C Murdoch. (Source: 11CU ORB)
24SEP45	Issued to 22RSU ex 11CU for 13SQ use by AOC 81WG.
OCT45	Used in Japan by a team led by Air Commodore Scherger to evaluate airfields suitable for use by the British Commonwealth Occupation Force.
06OCT45	Received at 2AD ex 13SQ.
08APR46	Received at 2AD Ferry Flight.
27AUG46	Received at 2AD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-89	237-6255	PV-1	49439	-
12APR44	Departed USA West Coast.
20APR44	At Honolulu.
09MAY44	Departed Honolulu.
12MAY44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
06JUL44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD for storage.
30OCT44	Received at CFS Point Cook.
22FEB45	Allotted to 1AD for modifications for escort duties.
02MAR45	Received at 1AD Test & Ferry SQ ex CFS.
11APR45	Received at 1AD ex 1AD Test & Ferry SQ. Tailwheel damaged in pot hole while taxying.
14MAY45	Allotted to 13SQ ex 1AD. Aircraft is to be fully operational with front and rear bomb bay tanks and CO2 cylinders.
23JUN45	Received at 13SQ. Coded SF-V.
11JUL45	Received at 14ARD ex 13SQ for repairs to damage caused during gun practice.
09AUG45	Received at 13SQ ex 14ARD.
08JAN46	Received at 2AD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-90	237-6256	PV-1	49440	-
12APR44	Departed USA West Coast.
20APR44	At Honolulu.
09MAY44	Departed Honolulu.
12MAY44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
27JUL44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
21DEC44	Received at 2AD Storage Evans Head.
19FEB45	Issued 1AD Test & Ferry SQ temporarily for escort P-40 1TAF RAAF.
30APR45	Undercarriage collapsed on take-off at Laverton.
03MAY45	Received at 1AD ex 1AD Test & Ferry SQ.
25SEP45	Force landed at Laverton.
17APR46	Issued to 1AD Storage.
13APR48	Approval granted for free issue to DCA for training purposes. See the Monegeetta Monster
15OCT48	Departed Laverton by road with A59-63.
10NOV48	Struck off charge.
A59-91	237-6257	PV-1	49441	-
12APR44	Departed USA West Coast.
20APR44	At Honolulu.
12MAY44	Departed Honolulu.
15MAY44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
02JUL44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
05AUG44	Allocated ex 2AP to escort duty for Ansons of 71SQ and 73SQ. To be stored when A59-11 is serviceable.
07AUG44	Returned to storage at 2AP.
10AUG44	Both engines caught fire on landing at Amberley.
11AUG44	Allotted 3AD for repair.
14AUG44	Received at 2AP ex 3AD.
21DEC44	Received at 2AD Storage Evans Head.
09FEB45	Received at 1AOS Evans Head for storage.
01MAR45	Received at 1AD ex 1AOS for mods for test and ferry escort duties.
09APR45	Received at 2AD Ferry Flight ex 1AD.
12MAR46	Received at 2AD Storage ex 2ADFF.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-92	237-6258	PV-1	49442	-
12APR44	Departed USA West Coast.
20APR44	At Honolulu
12MAY44	Departed Honolulu.
15MAY44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
30JUN44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
07AUG44	With 2AP. "a/c now en route NWA escorting (10) Spitfires."
03JAN45	Received at 2AD Care & Maintenance Evans Head for storage.
09FEB45	Received at 1AOS Evans Head for storage.
14MAY45	Allotted to 2AD for operational fitment. Ensure aircraft fitted with bomb bay tanks and CO2 cylinders.
31MAR45	Aircraft damaged in a storm at Evans Head.
17AUG45	Allotment to 2AD cancelled.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
06FEB48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex CMU, Evans Head, NSW.
25MAR49	Disposal action completed.
A59-93	237-6361	PV-1	49545	-
19MAY44	Departed USA West Coast.
24MAY44	At Honolulu.
29MAY44	Departed Honolulu.
31MAY44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
10OCT44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
01DEC44	Received at 2AD Care & Maintenance Section Evans Head for storage.
09FEB45	Received at 1AOS Evans Head for storage.
14MAY45	Allotted to 2AD for operational fitment.
17AUG45	Allotment to 2AD cancelled.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
16FEB48	Passed to DAP for disposal ex CMU, Evans Head, NSW.
25MAR49	Disposal action completed.
A59-94	237-6362	PV-1	49546	-
19MAY44	Departed USA West Coast.
31MAY44	Departed Honolulu.
02JUN44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
15SEP44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
01DEC44	Received at 2AD Storage Evans Head.
09FEB45	Received at 1AOS Evans Head for storage.
01MAR45	Received at 1AD for mods for test and ferry escort duties.
09APR45	Received at 2AD Ferry Flight.
06AUG45	Received at 2AD ex 2ADFF.
26NOV45	Received at 1AD Ferry Flight ex 2AD to escort aircraft to 6AD Oakey.
03DEC45	Received at 2AD.
30JUL46	Received at 2AD for storage.
01OCT46	Aircraft to be stored.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-95	237-6368	PV-1	49552	-
19MAY44	Departed USA West Coast.
31MAY44	Departed Honolulu.
02JUN44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
02AUG44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
04NOV44	Received at 2AD ex 2AP for operational fitment.
29DEC44	Received at 1AD ex 2AD for fitment of LORAN.
20JAN45	Received at 24SQ ex 1AD for use by LORAN Tactical Development Flight. At that time 24SQ were operating B-24 Liberators from Fenton, NT.
06APR45	Received at 13SQ ex 4RSU. Coded SF-S and SF-Y.
08JAN46	Allotted 2AD ex 13SQ for storage.
11MAR46	Unserviceable at Kallang, Singapore.
09APR46	Approved for destruction as not practicable to repair and return to Australia.
16APR46	Aircraft allocated to 39OMU RAF Seletar for breakdown. (See also A59-70)
A59-96	237-6371	PV-1	49555	-
Extant Aircraft - see A59-96
A59-97	237-6370	PV-1	49554	-
19MAY44	Departed USA West Coast
31MAY44	At Honolulu.
02JUN44	Departed Honolulu.
04JUN44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
23JUL44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
21DEC44	Received at 2AD Storage Evans Head.
09FEB45	Received at 1AOS Evans Head for storage.
09MAR45	Received at 2AD ex 2AP.
22MAR45	Taxying accident.
25MAR45	Allotted 26RSU for field repairs.
09APR45	Back at 2ADFF by this time.
11MAY45	Received at 2AD ex 2ADFF for operational fitment.
18OCT45	To be made available to 1AD Ferry Flight to escort aircraft to 6AD.
01APR46	Issued to 2AD Ferry Flight ex 2AD.
30JUL46	Received at 2AD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-98	237-6372	PV-1	49556	-
19MAY44	Departed USA West Coast.
31MAY44	At Honolulu.
02JUN44	Departed Honolulu.
04JUN44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
29JUL44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
22DEC44	Received at 2AD Care & Maintenance Section for storage Evans Head.
04APR45	Issued to 14ARDRP ex 2AD
06APR45	Received at 13SQ ex 14ARDRP. Coded SF-T.
06NOV45	Received at 1RSU ex 13SQ for repairs (unspecified).
27NOV45	S/L Barton departed Labuan in A59-98 for 2AD Richmond. (Source: 13SQ ORB)
29NOV45	Received at 2AD ex 1RSU for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-99	237-6364	PV-1	49548	-
19MAY44	Departed USA West Coast.
24MAY44	At Honolulu.
17JUN44	Departed Honolulu.
20JUN44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
20JUL44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
04NOV44	Received at 2AD ex 2AP for operational fitment.
14FEB45	Issued to 14ARDRP ex 2AD.
20FEB45	Received at 13SQ ex 14ARDRP. Coded SF-M and SF-K.
06SEP45	Crashed and burned on take-off from Balikpapan. All crew and seven passengers escaped without injury.
20SEP45	Received at 6RSU ex 13SQ.
07NOV45	Approval given to convert to componenets.
A59-100	237-6366	PV-1	49550	-
19MAY44	Departed USA West Coast.
24MAY44	At Honolulu.
17JUN44	Departed Honolulu.
21JUN44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
24JUL44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
16NOV44	Allocated to 2AP Ferry Flight for temporary escort duty until B-34 aircraft return.
22DEC44	Received at 2AD Storage.
16JUL45	Received at 13SQ ex 2AD.
10OCT45	Received at 2AD ex 13SQ. To be fitted with "gear" (presumably seats) ex A59-88.
02DEC45	Received at 81WG ex 2AD for use by Air Officer Commanding.
21MAY46	Received at 2AD ex 81WG for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-101	237-6363	PV-1	49547	-
19MAY44	Departed USA West Coast.
24MAY44	At Honolulu.
18JUN44	Departed Honolulu.
21JUN44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
24JUL44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
23DEC44	Received at 2AD ex 2AP for fitment Ventura Order No. 27 (Propeller governor control cable shield).
21MAY45	Received at 13SQ ex 2AD. Coded SF-B.
06JAN46	Received at 2AD ex 13SQ for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-102	237-6369	PV-1	49553	VHRGW
19MAY44	Departed USA West Coast.
16JUN44	Departed Honolulu.
21JUN44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
01NOV44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD.
28NOV44	Received at 4CU ex 2AP for use by AOC RAAF Command. To be fitted with seats ex Hudson A16-55. Used call-sign VHRGW. (4CU AOB states 29NOV44)
24DEC44	Archerfield-Evans Head with W/C Glasscock. (Source: 4CU ORB)
01JAN45	Local test flight Archerfield (30 min) flown by F/L Hawthorne and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
05JAN45	Archerfield-Essendon-Archerfield flown by S/L Marshall with G/C Candy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
06JAN45	Archerfield-Essendon (4hr 10min) flown by S/L Marshall with S/L Cox and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
08JAN45	Essendon-Mascot-Archerfield flown by S/L Marshall with S/L Byrnes and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
18JAN45	Local test flight Archerfield (1hr 30min) flown by S/L Marshall and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
19JAN45	Archerfield-Mascot-Bankstown-Mascot-Archerfield flown by S/L Marshall with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
23JAN45	Archerfield-Cloncurry-Darwin-Noemfoor-Morotai flown by S/L Marshall with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
25JAN45	Morotai-Leyte flown by S/L Marshall with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
25JAN45	Local test flight Leyte (15min) flown by S/L Marshall and crew only. (Source: 4CU ORB)
26JAN45	Leyte-Noemfoor-Tadji-Lae flown by S/L Marshall with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
27JAN45	Lae-Dobodura-Piva-Townsville-Archerfield (arrived 28JAN) flown by S/L Marshall with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
31JAN45	Circuits Archerfield and Lowood returning Archerfield. Flown by F/L Hawthorne and crew.
02FEB45	Archerfield-Leyburn-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne to inspect strips and deliver safe hand. (Source: 4CU ORB)
02FEB45	Local test flight Archerfield and night flying by F/L Hawthorne and crew (1hr 30min). (Source: 4CU ORB)
03FEB45	Local test flight Archerfield by F/L Hawthorne and crew (20min). (Source: 4CU ORB)
05FEB45	Archerfield-Leyburn-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with Sir Leslie Wilson, Governor of Queensland, AVM Bostock and Colonel Stark. (Source: 4CU ORB)
06FEB45	Local night Radar test flight Archerfield by F/L Hawthorne and crew (2hr 15min). (Source: 4CU ORB)
07FEB45	Local test flight Archerfield ("Astra and gun") by F/L Hawthorne and crew (1hr). (Source: 4CU ORB)
15FEB45	Archerfield-Forest Hill (Wagga Wagga)-Essendon-Laverton flown by F/L Hawthorne and crew with 9 pax. (Source: 4CU ORB)
16FEB45	Laverton-Essendon-Mascot flown by F/L Hawthorne and crew with 6 pax. (Source: 4CU ORB)
18FEB45	Mascot-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne and crew with 5 pax. (Source: 4CU ORB)
19FEB45	Archerfield-New Guinea with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
25FEB45	New Guinea-Archerfield with AOC RAAF Command. (Source: 4CU ORB)
01MAR45	Local test flight Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne and crew (10min). (Source: 4CU ORB)
05MAR45	Archerfield-Essendon flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
07MAR45	Essendon-Canberra-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock. (Source: 4CU ORB)
09MAR45	Archerfield-Kingaroy-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with MAJ de Havilland. (Source: 4CU ORB)
12MAR45	Archerfield-Essendon flown by F/L Hawthorne with W/C Glasscock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
13MAR45	Essendon-Archerfield with W/C Glasscock. (Source: 4CU ORB)
16MAR45	Received at 3AD Amberley ex 4CU.
17APR45	Amberley-Archerfield ferry flight by F/L Hawthorne and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
19APR45	Archerfield-Essendon-Richmond flown by F/L Hawthorne with F/L Hill and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
21APR45	Richmond-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne and crew returning to base. (Source: 4CU ORB)
22APR45	Archerfield-Morotai with G/C Cohen and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
07MAY45	Morotai-Gove-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
09MAY45	Archerfield-Eagle Farm ferry flight by F/L Hawthorne and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
09MAY45	Eagle Farm-Gove flown by F/L Hawthorne and crew with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
10MAY45	Gove-Morotai flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
11MAY45	Morotai-Gove-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with A/C Candy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
14MAY45	Archerfield-Eagle Farm ferry flight by F/L Hawthorne and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
14MAY45	Eagle Farm-Gove flown by F/L Hawthorne and crew with A/C Candy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
14MAY45	Gove-Morotai flown by F/L Hawthorne with A/C Candy and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
16MAY45	Morotai-Cloncurry-Archerfield (arrived 17MAY) flown by F/L Hawthorne with G/C Munro and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
20MAY45	Archerfield-Cloncurry-Gove-Morotai flown by F/L Hawthorne with G/C Munro and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
22MAY45	Morotai-Gove flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
24MAY45	Gove-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
01JUN45	Archerfield-Essendon-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
02JUN45	Archerfield-Eagle Farm ferry flight by F/L Hawthorne and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
02JUN45	Eagle Farm-Morotai flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
09JUN45	Morotai-Sanga flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
12JUN45	Sanga-Morotai flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
13JUN45	Morotai-Sanga-Morotai flown by F/L Hawthorne with G/C McLaughlin and party plus GEN Morsehead on return flight. (Source: 4CU ORB)
15JUN45	Morotai-Leyte-Morotai flown by F/L Hawthorne with G/C Candy. (Source: 4CU ORB)
20JUN45	Morotai-Gove-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne (arrived 21JUN) with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
23JUN45	Archerfield-Eagle Farm-Morotai flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
12JUL45	Morotai-Gove-Archerfield (arrived 13JUL45) flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. Evidently the aircraft was in Morotai from 24JUN to 12JUL as no movements are recorded in this period. (Source: 4CU ORB)
16JUL45	Archerfield-Essendon flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
17JUL45	Essendon-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
19JUL45	Archerfield-Maryborough Radar test flight by F/L Hawthorne with Matron Franklin as pax. (Source: 4CU ORB)
20JUL45	Maryborough-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with Matron Franklin as pax. (Source: 4CU ORB)
01AUG45	Morotai-Gove-Archerfield (arrived 02AUG) flown by F/L Hawthorne with S/L Milbourn and party. Previous arrival at Morotai is not recorded. (Source: 4CU ORB)
06AUG45	Local test flight Archerfield (20 min) flown by F/L Hawthorne and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
16AUG45	"PEACE DAY celebrations. NIL flying." (Source: 4CU ORB)
19AUG45	Archerfield-Eagle Farm-Gove flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
20AUG45	Gove-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
23AUG45	Eagle Farm-Gove-Morotai-Manila-Okinawa (arrived 25AUG) flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
04SEP45	Okinawa-Manila-Morotai-Gove-Archerfield (arrived 05SEP) flown by F/L Hawthorne with AVM Bostock and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
07SEP45	Local test flight (15 min) Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne and crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
07SEP45	Archerfield-Eagle Farm-Gove en route Morotai for evacuations flown by F/L Hawthorne. (Source: 4CU ORB)
09SEP45	Gove-Morotai-Gove flown by F/L Hawthorne with RAAF Command personnel. (Source: 4CU ORB)
10SEP45	Gove-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with RAAF Command personnel. (Source: 4CU ORB)
12SEP45	Archerfield-Gove-Morotai (arrived 13SEP) flown by F/L Hawthorne to evacuate LT GEN Morshead. (Source: 4CU ORB)
14SEP45	"Unit is 3 years old." (Source: 4CU ORB)
15SEP45	Morotai-Darwin flown by F/L Hawthorne with LT GEN Morshead and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
17SEP45	Darwin-Cloncurry-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with LT GEN Morshead and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
18SEP45	Archerfield-Mascot-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with LT GEN Morshead and party to Mascot. (Source: 4CU ORB)
20SEP45	Archerfield-Richmond flown by F/L Hawthorne for 360 hourly inspection also carried personnel. (Source: 4CU ORB)
24SEP45	Received at 2AD for 360 hourly and double engine change and to remove armour, guns, turret and radar. Bulkhead to be fitted and compartment to be sound-proofed. LORAN to be fitted.
09NOV45	Richmond-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with personnel. (Source: 4CU ORB)
12NOV45	Archerfield-Breddan flown by F/L Hawthorne with the Governor of Queensland, Sir Leslie Wilson and party to Charleville. (Source: 4CU ORB)
14NOV45	Breddan-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with the Governor of Queensland, Sir Leslie Wilson and party from Charleville. (Source: 4CU ORB)
16NOV45	Archerfield-Mascot flown by F/L Hawthorne. No other details recorded. (Source: 4CU ORB)
	The status card suggests that the aircraft went to 2AD at Richmond for a 120 hourly inspection.
04DEC45	Local test flight (30 min) at Richmond flown by S/L Shields. (Source: 4CU ORB)
04DEC45	Richmond-Archerfield-Rockhampton flown by F/L Hawthorne plus two crew and one pax to Archerfield. (Source: 4CU ORB)
05DEC45	Rockhampton-Mascot flown by F/L Hawthorne with Minister for Defence Mr Forde and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
06DEC45	Mascot-Essendon flown by F/L Hawthorne with Minister for Defence Mr Forde and party. (Source: 4CU ORB)
10DEC45	Essendon-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne with four pax. (Source: 4CU ORB)
17DEC45	Archerfield-Rockhampton-Oakey-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne and three crew navigating Mustangs from Rockhampton to Oakey. (Source: 4CU ORB)
18DEC45	Archerfield-Oakey-Archerfield flown by F/L Hawthorne plus two crew to collect medical case.
15JAN46	Allotted to 1CU for VIP duties. (Source: 4CU ORB)
23JAN46	Advice received from RAAF HQ that 4CU is to disband forthwith. (Source: 4CU ORB)
05FEB46	Test flight at Archerfield (40 min) flown by F/L Hawthorne plus three crew. (Source: 4CU ORB)
07FEB46	Ferried Archerfield-Mascot (2 hr 30 min) flown by F/L Hawthorne plus four crew. F/L H.D. Hawthorne and F/O Carran proceeded to 1CU on VIP flying duties. (Source: 4CU ORB)
19FEB46	First operation with 1CU. Essendon-Canberra with Capt Pelgarth R.N. (Source: 1CU ORB)
11MAR46	Departed Essendon for New Guinea with BRIG Binns but returned with engine trouble. (Source: 1CU ORB)
	The 1CU ORB records only two operations with Ventura A59-102. (Source: 1CU ORB)
03JUN46	Aircraft to be stored at 1CU.
31JUL46	To be transferred to DCA at Essendon, Vic.
17DEC46	Written off.
05JUN47	Disposed of by DAP to DCA, Essendon. There is no evidence of further use by DCA and the aircraft was probably broken up at Essendon.
A59-103	237-6365	PV-1	49549	-
19MAY44	Departed USA West Coast.
24MAY44	At Honolulu.
28JUN44	Departed Honolulu.
02JUL44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
18AUG44	Received at 2AP ex 2AD for storage.
13NOV44	Received at 2AD ex 2AP for operational fitment.
29JAN45	Issued 14ARDRP ex 2AD.
31JAN45	Received at 13SQ ex 14ARDRP. Coded SF-U and SF-A.
23JAN46	Received at 2AD ex 13SQ for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.
A59-104	237-6367	PV-1	49551	-
04JUN44	Departed USA West Coast.
13JUN44	At Honolulu.
28JUN44	Departed Honolulu.
02JUL44	Received at 2AD, Richmond.
09AUG44	Received 2AP ex 2AD for storage.
11NOV44	Received 2AD ex 2AP for operational fitment.
28MAR45	Received at 14ARDRP ex 2AD.
06APR45	Received at 13SQ ex 14ARDRP. Coded SF-S.
06JAN46	Received at 2AD for storage.
19NOV46	Authorised for write-off.
03SEP48	Issued to DAP for disposal ex 2AD.
06SEP49	Disposal action completed.

MSN TO RAAF SERIAL CROSS REFERENCE

MSN	RAAF
4707	A59-1
4710	A59-2
4713	A59-11
4715	A59-3
4716	A59-4
4718	A59-12
4720	A59-13
4721	A59-14
4722	A59-15
4723	A59-5
4725	A59-16
4735	A59-6
4741	A59-7
4742	A59-8
4747	A59-17
4764	A59-9
4777	A59-10
4781	A59-18
4786	A59-19
4828	A59-20
5325	A59-51
5330	A59-50
5378	A59-67 (#2)
5453	A59-52
5455	A59-53
5541	A59-55
5542	A59-54
5644	A59-56
5645	A59-57
5748	A59-58
5749	A59-60
5750	A59-59
5882	A59-61
5884	A59-62
5885	A59-63
5984	A59-65
5985	A59-64
5986	A59-66
6090	A59-67
6091	A59-68
6134	A59-71
6135	A59-69
6136	A59-72
6137	A59-70
6142	A59-73
6198	A59-74
6199	A59-75
6200	A59-76
6201	A59-77
6244	A59-78
6245	A59-79
6246	A59-80
6247	A59-81
6248	A59-82
6249	A59-83
6250	A59-84
6251	A59-85
6252	A59-86
6253	A59-87
6254	A59-88
6255	A59-89
6256	A59-90
6257	A59-91
6258	A59-92
6361	A59-93
6362	A59-94
6363	A59-101
6364	A59-99
6365	A59-103
6366	A59-100
6367	A59-104
6368	A59-95
6369	A59-102
6370	A59-97
6371	A59-96
6372	A59-98

RAAF VENTURA NON-COMBAT USAGE

MENTIONED IN CONNECTION WITH ESCORT DUTY

A59-3, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14, 66, 82, 84, 88, 90, 91, 92, 94, 96, 97, 100

OPERATED BY FERRY FLIGHTS (NOT INCLUDED ABOVE)

A59-2, 8, 50, 53, 59, 62, 63

OPERATED BY COMMUNICATIONS UNITS (1, 4, 6 & 11)

A59-51, 52, 60, 80, 82, 86, 88, 102

MISC VIP OPERATIONS

A59-100

STORED AT EVANS HEAD

A59-74, 80, 82, 87, 88, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 96, 97, 98

It should be noted that after the end of hostilities, 13 Squadron Venturas were stripped of armament and used to repatriate service personnel and prisoners of war.

No 1 Communication Unit Venturas

No 1 Communication Unit was formed at Laverton on 1 November 1939, moving to Essendon on 6 January 1943. 1CU began moving back to Laverton at the end of June 1946 and eventually disbanded on 22 July 1948. The Unit began operations with Demons and Bulldogs and operated a wide range of aircraft types up to and including the B-24 Liberator. The Unit operated only one Ventura, A59-102, which was allotted to 1CU on 15 January 1946 as 4CU began to disband. Two Ventura aircrew also transferred from 4CU with their aircraft. The aircraft's first recorded operation with 1CU was on 19 February 1946 when a Royal Navy officer was flown to Canberra. On 11 March 1946 the Ventura departed Essendon for New Guinea but turned back with engine trouble. This would appear to be its second and last operation with 1CU. The aircraft was stored on 3 June 1946 and subsequently handed over to the Department of Civil Aviation for unknown purposes.

No 4 Communication Unit Venturas

No 4 Communication Flight was formed at Archerfield, Brisbane on 7 September 1942. It was renamed No 4 Communication Unit on 25 November 1943. The Unit disbanded on 16 April 1946. Aircraft types operated were Anson, Tiger Moth, Norseman, Vengeance, Wirraway, Kittyhawk, Hudson, Ventura, Beaufort, Beaufreighter and Beaufighter. The Unit operated two Venturas, A59-86 and A59-102. Please refer to the table above for detailed histories of both aircraft.

No 6 Communication Unit Venturas

No 6 Communication Flight was formed at Manbulloo, NT on 8 December 1942, moving to Batchelor, NT in February 1943 and finally to Darwin in October 1945. The unit was renamed No 6 Communication Unit in November 1943. Aircraft operated include Tiger Moth, Dragon, Dragonfly, Anson, Walrus, Beaufort. and Lodestar. The status card for Ventura A59-60 states that the aircraft was allotted to 6CU on 17 December 1945 for use by the Air Officer Commanding. However, this writer can find only one reference to a Ventura in the 6CU ORB and that appears under 16 June 1945 where it states; "AOC's Beaufort (A9-98) force landed at Tennant Creek on return from Melbourne. AOC and party rescued by Ventura next day." The identity of the Beaufort was derived from the aircraft status card but the Ventura is not identified. If this Ventura was A59-60, its appearance at 6CU predates its allotment by six months. It is possible that the AOC had commandeered the aircraft earlier and it took the paperwork six months to catch up. No 6CU disbanded at Darwin on 30 December 1945.

No 11 Communication Unit Venturas

No 11 Communication Unit was formed at Morotai on 13 March 1945 with a mixture of Venturas and Beauforts. Only Ventura strength at the end of each month is shown.

APR45	A59-51, 52, 80, 82, 88
MAY45	A59-52, 80, 82, 88
JUN45	A59-51, 52, 80, 82, 88
JUL45	A59-51, 52, 80, 82, 88
AUG45	A59-51, 52, 80, 82, 88
SEP45	A59-51, 52, 80, 82, 88
OCT45	A59-51, 52, 80, 82
NOV45	A59-51, 52, 82
DEC45	A59-51, 82
JAN46	A59-51, 82
FEB46	A59-51, 82

During the period 4-15 October 1945, 11CU Venturas and Beauforts were engaged almost daily flying 82 Wing personnel from Balikpapan to Morotai. During December 1945, all technical musterings were posted out. This was evidently a prelude to disbandment although an actual date is not recorded. A59-82 departed Morotai for Melbourne on 4 February 1946, the last 11CU Ventura movement recorded. The final entry in the 11OCU ORB is 26 February 1946 when Beaufort A9-704 was ferried to Wagga. Please refer to the table above for detailed histories of 11CU Venturas.

No 1 Operational Training Unit Venturas

No 1 Operational Training Unit was formed at Nhill, Vic on 8 December 1941. The unit relocated to Bairnsdale in June 1942 pending the completion of their new base at East Sale which 1OTU eventually occupied from April 1943. The unit trained crews on many types including Battle, Anson, Oxford, Hudson and Beaufort. The unit also operated several Venturas but information on their use of the type is sparse. Indeed, the only reference in available 1OTU files is a mention of the crash of A59-9 on 23 February 1945 with the loss of all six crew. The 13SQ ORB records that in October 1943, the dual controls which had been fitted to A59-52 were returned to 1OTU via rail freight. This implies an earlier use of Venturas by 1OTU but it is likely that the Ventura and Hudson shared common dual controls. Status Cards show that the following Venturas served with 1OTU.

1OTU Chronology

Date	Aircraft	Event
17MAR44	A59-68	Received 1OTU ex 2AD
12APR44	A59-68	Issued to 32SQ
14APR44	A59-9	Received 1OTU ex 1AD
20MAY44	A59-16	Received 1OTU ex 1AD
23FEB45	A59-9	Crashed
18JUL45	A59-6	Received 1OTU ex 2AP
10JAN46	A59-6	Issued to 7AD Tocumwal
04APR46	A59-16	Issued to CMU Tocumwal

1OTU Venturas by Serial

Aircraft	Date	Event
A59-6	18JUL45	Received 1OTU ex 2AP
A59-6	10JAN46	Issued to 7AD Tocumwal

A59-9	14APR44	Received 1OTU ex 1AD
A59-9	23FEB45	Crashed

A59-16	20MAY44	Received 1OTU ex 1AD
A59-16	04APR46	Issued to CMU Tocumwal

A59-68	17MAR44	Received 1OTU ex 2AD
A59-68	12APR44	Issued to 32SQ

Almost Ventura Squadrons

In August 1943, RAAF Command issued a plan for the re-arrangement of units within the North-Eastern, Eastern and Southern Areas with the purpose of obtaining "greater economy of force". At this time, the only unit operating Venturas was No 13 Squadron based in Canberra with a mixture of Venturas and Beauforts but it was proposed that No 32 Squadron would also operate a mixed fleet of Venturas and Beauforts!

A subsequent letter from HQ RAAF Command dated 1 May 1944 signalled several changes to the original plan. It had been proposed that 13SQ would move to Lowood and Bundaberg, Qld but it emerged that Venturas could not operate from Bundaberg without extensive runway works. Therefore, it was proposed that the two Ventura squadrons would be located in the NEA to simplify maintenance and logistics. The letter from HQ RAAF Command further stated that; "No action has yet been taken to re-arm No 32 Squadron with PV-1s". Furthermore, it was decided that 32SQ would remain a Beaufort squadron to be based at Lowood and Bundaberg while 13SQ would relinquish its Beauforts to 32SQ and move to Cooktown, Qld as a Ventura squadron. The second Ventura squadron would now be 7SQ which was already located at Higgins on Cape York, Qld.

Although RAAF Command had decided not to proceed with re-arming 32SQ with Venturas, the wheels were already in motion and A59-64 along with A59-68 arrived at 32SQ at Camden on 12 April 1944. While the 32SQ ORB does not record any Venturas having been on strength, it does record that A59-68 arrived at the 32SQ detachment in Bundaberg on 23 April flown by Flt Lt Brown who flew the aeroplane back to Camden the following day. The exercise was repeated with the same aeroplane on 26/28 April but this time Flt Lt Brown was accompanied by the Commanding Officer, Squadron Leader C.A. Loneragan. These are the only Ventura movements recorded in the 32SQ ORB. The allotment of A59-64 to 32SQ was cancelled on 12 April, the same day that the aeroplane arrived at the squadron! Three days later, on 15 April, A59-64 was issued from 32SQ to 13SQ. A59-68 was received at 2AP Bankstown on 28 April, the same day that it returned from its second trip to Bundaberg. This brought down the curtain on 32 Squadron's brief flirtation with the Ventura.

32 Squadron Chronology

Date	Aircraft	Event
06MAR44	A59-64	Allotted 32SQ ex 2AP
22MAR44	A59-68	Allotted 32SQ ex 1OTU
12APR44	A59-64	Received 32SQ ex 2AP
12APR44	A59-68	Received 32SQ ex 1OTU
12APR44	A59-64	Allotment 32SQ cancelled. Allotted 13SQ.
13APR44	A59-68	Allotment 32SQ cancelled
15APR44	A59-64	Issued 13SQ ex 32SQ
19APR44	A59-68	Allotted 2AP ex 32SQ
28APR44	A59-68	Issued 2AP ex 32SQ

32 Squadron Venturas by Serial

Aircraft	Date	Event
A59-64	06MAR44	Allotted 32SQ ex 2AP
A59-64	12APR44	Received 32SQ ex 2AP
A59-64	12APR44	Allotment 32SQ cancelled. Allotted 13SQ.
A59-64	15APR44	Issued 13SQ ex 32SQ.

A59-68	22MAR44	Allotted 32SQ ex 1OTU
A59-68	12APR44	Received 32SQ ex 1OTU
A59-68	13APR44	Allotment 32SQ cancelled
A59-68	19APR44	Allotted 2AP ex 32SQ
A59-68	28APR44	Issued 2AP ex 32SQ

Enter 7 Squadron

On 20 May 1944, RAAF Organisation Memorandum No. 492 ordered that No 7 Squadron would re-arm with Ventura PV-1 aircraft at an early date in lieu of No 32 Squadron. It was proposed to re-arm only one flight with ten aircraft, one of which would be fitted with dual controls, with an estimated completion date of 1 June 1944. The remainder of the squadron was to continue operating Beauforts until further Venturas arrived from overseas. The 7SQ ORB notes that the Beauforts would be known as "A" Flight and the Venturas would constitute "B" Flight.

On 10 June, advice was received from HQ NEA that equipping the Squadron with Venturas was now unlikely. This was confirmed by RAAF Organisation Memorandum No 511 dated 13 June 1944. On 17 June, the ORB noted that "Venturas were being reallotted from 7SQ indicating that the Squadron is to continue using Beauforts only". Although the ORB faithfully records all Beaufort operations, the Venturas were allowed to arrive and depart without acknowledgement! From the Status Cards it can be established that the following aircraft were involved. Aircraft that had been allotted to 7SQ were reallotted to 13ARD as spares for 13SQ.

7 Squadron Chronology

Date	Aircraft	Event
09MAY44	A59-71	Received 7SQ ex 2AP
26MAY44	A59-75	Issued 7SQ ex 2AP
26MAY44	A59-83	Allotted 7SQ ex 2AP with dual controls
01JUN44	A59-75	Allotted 13ARD ex 7SQ
02JUN44	A59-68	Received 7SQ ex 2AP. Prev with 32SQ.
03JUN44	A59-70	Received 7SQ ex 2AP
09JUN44	A59-83	Allotment to 7SQ cancelled
26JUN44	A59-71	Received 13ARD ex 7SQ
26JUN44	A59-70	Received 13ARD ex 7SQ
03JUL44	A59-68	Received 13ARD ex 7SQ

7 Squadron Venturas by Serial

Aircraft	Date	Event
A59-68	02JUN44	Received 7SQ ex 2AP
A59-68	03JUL44	Received 13ARD ex 7SQ

A59-70	03JUN44	Received 7SQ ex 2AP
A59-70	26JUN44	Received 13ARD ex 7SQ

A59-71	09MAY44	Received 7SQ ex 2AP
A59-71	26JUN44	Received 13ARD ex 7SQ

A59-75	26MAY44	Issued 7SQ ex 2AP
A59-75	01JUN44	Allotted 13ARD ex 7SQ

A59-83	26MAY44	Allotted 7SQ ex 2AP with dual controls
A59-83	09JUN44	Allotment to 7SQ cancelled

SUMMARY OF NO 13 SQUADRON VENTURA OPERATIONS

ABBREVIATIONS

A/C	Air Commodore
AD	Aircraft Depot
AOC	Air Officer Commanding
AOS	Air Observers' School
APU	Aircraft Performance Unit
ARD	Aircraft Repair Depot
AVM	Air Vice-Marshal
BRIG	Brigadier
CFS	Central Flying School, Point Cook
CMU	Care and Maintenance Unit
CO	Commanding Officer
CRD	Central Recovery Depot
CU	Communication Unit
DAP	Department of Aircraft Production
DCA	Department of Civil Aviation
F/L	Flight Lieutenant
F/O	Flying Officer
G/C	Group Captain
GEN	General
LAC	Leading Aircraftman
LT COL	Lieutenant Colonel
LT GEN	Lieutenant General
LORAN	Long Range Navigation
MSN	Manufacturer's Serial Number
NEA	North Eastern Area
NEIAF	Netherlands East Indies Air Force
NWA	North Western Area
OBU	Operational Base Unit
ORB	Operations Record Book
OTU	Operational Training Unit
RAF	Royal Air Force
RAAF	Royal Australian Air Force
RAN	Royal Australian Navy
RP	Reserve Pool
RPP	Reserve Pilot Pool
RSU	Repair and Salvage/Servicing Unit
SD	Stores Depot
SDF	Unknown. Believe associated with 1APU Laverton.
S/L	Squadron Leader
TAF	Tactical Air Force (RAAF)
USAAF	United States Army Air Force
USN	United States Navy
W/C	Wing Commander
WG	Wing
W/O	Warrant Officer

UNIT LOCATIONS

Bases are relevant to the above chronology

1AD	Laverton, Vic
2AD	Richmond, NSW
3AD	Amberley, Qld
5AD	Wagga Wagga, NSW
6AD	Oakey, Qld
7AD	Tocumwal, NSW
1AOS	Evans Head, NSW
2AP	Bankstown, NSW
1APU	Laverton, Vic
12ARD	Werribee, Vic. Moved to Darwin, NT AUG44.
13ARD	Breddan, Qld
14ARD	Ascot Vale, Vic. Moved to Gorrie, NT FEB43.
CFS	Point Cook, Vic
1CRD	Werribee, Vic
2CRD	Richmond, NSW
1CU	Essendon, Vic. Moved to Laverton, Vic JUN46.
4CU	Archerfield, Qld
6CU	Darwin, NT
11CU	Morotai, Dutch East Indies
1OTU	East Sale, Vic
1RSU	Labuan, Malaya
14RSU	Mt Druitt, NSW. Moved to Pell, NT in MAR44.
18RSU	Mt Druitt, NSW. Moved to Pell, NT in AUG44.
22RSU	Noemfoor, Dutch New Guinea
6SD	Dubbo, NSW
13SQ	13SQ Page

SOURCES
1	NAA: RAAF Form E/E.88 Airframe Record Card (aka Status Card). Series number A10297
2	NAA: RAAF Unit History sheets (Form A50) [Operations Record Book - Forms A50 and A51] Number 13 Squadron Jun 40 - Dec 45, Series number A9186.
3	RAAF Historical Section, Units of the Royal Australian Air Force, Vol. 3 Bomber Units, Vol. 4 Maritime and Transport Units.
4	NAA: RAAF Unit History sheets (Form A50) [Operations Record Book - Forms A50 and A51] Numbers 1, 2 and 3 Communication Unit Feb 40 - Feb 46, Series number A9186
5	NAA: RAAF Unit History sheets (Form A50) [Operations Record Book - Forms A50 and A51] Communication Unit Number 4 Sep 42 - Apr 46, Series number A9186
6	NAA: RAAF Unit History sheets (Form A50) [Operations Record Book - Forms A50 and A51] Communication Flights 5-13 Dec 42 - Oct 45, Series number A9186
7	NAA: RAAF Unit History sheets (Form A50) [Operations Record Book - Forms A50 and A51] Number 7 Squadron Jun 40 - Dec 45, Series number A9186
8	NAA: Formation Organisation and Movement No 7 (GR/B) Squadron, Series number A705
9	NAA: RAAF Unit History sheets (Form A50) [Operations Record Book - Forms A50 and A51] Number 32 Squadron Feb 42 - Sep 45, Series number A9186
10	NAA: HQ 1 OTU. Organization and Administration. Historical Record A50 - A51 [No.1 Operational Training Unit] Series number A12650
11	Jack McKillop http://www.microworks.net/pacific/aviation/pv_ventura.htm

Issue	Date	Remarks
14	22MAR24	Corrected the date of the incident involving A59-14 at Mackay from 23OCT44 to 20OCT44.
13	22SEP21	Added a new section Lockheed or Vega?
12	25NOV20	Created a new page on the Monegeetta Monster.
11	24NOV20	Moved the coverage of the Ventura Ambulance to a new page.
10	19JAN17	Added a section on the short-lived use of Venturas by 7SQ.
9	17JAN17	The Ventura pages have undergone a major update from sources shown. Aircraft histories are now shown in greater detail. Allotments for routine maintenance have been ignored.
8	24DEC16	Details of 13 Squadron Venturas have been updated from Source #2. The ORB for 13SQ records the arrival and departure of almost all of the Venturas so these dates have been used in preference to those shown on the Status Cards (Source #1).
7	14DEC16	Table completely reformatted to list aircraft in RAAF serial order. Previously aircraft were listed in MSN order. A table has been added to cross reference MSNs to RAAF serial numbers.
6	08SEP15	Table completely reformatted. Nil change to data.
5	25JUL06	Added departure dates ex West Coast and arrival Honolulu for Bu No 48898 to 49556 incl. Thanks to Gordon Birkett.
4	24JUN06	Added departure dates ex Honolulu thanks to Gordon Birkett. Also corrected the date A59-51 was received at 3AD. Also added the date A59-50 was received at 3AD (previously missing).
3	20JUN06	On the basis of new information received it would appear that the USAAF serials for A59-18 and A59-20 are correct as shown above. Thanks to Gordon Birkett.
2	12MAR06	Frank Bowden has advised that his father's log book records several flights in A59-54 in April 1944, hence it can't have been written off in late 1943 as indicated on the status card.
1	15JAN00	Original issue

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