Jon Johanson
'Record Breaking Australian Pilot, Jon Johanson, offers his Vans RV4 aircraft to the SA Aviation Museum Inc for preservation.
Even though the aircraft has been on display at the Museum since September 2009 a sponsorship launch event was held on site on Friday 2nd July 2010.
Jon signs copies of his book.
Jon Johanson has offered the aircraft at a price of $55,000 to reimburse those who funded the RV4 when it was built.
Guest Speakers were:
The Mayor of the City of Port Adelaide/Enfield Mr Gary Johanson who spoke of the importance of the aircraft to S.A. aviation history and what Jon had achieved. He highlighted the Aviation Museum's significant place in the museums precinct in Port Adelaide.
Mayor of Port Adelaide, Gary Johanson
Mr Langdon Badger, a noted SA Pilot and owner of the Supermarine Spitfire EE853 which is on display at the Museum, highlighted Jon Johanson's flying records and achievements in those long solo flights around the world over both the north and south poles. The people of South Australia need to support this appeal. The appeal is for $55,000 with $50,000 for the cost of the aircraft and $5,000 to cover related fundraising expenses. On the retail market the Smithsonian Institute in the U.S.A. would take the aircraft at a price of at least $110,000. This Vans RV4 needs to be preserved so future generations can see what South Australian's can do.
Langdon Badger
Jon Johanson spoke on his background and stressed that we all can do anything we set our minds to. 'If I can do it, so can you'. Have a go so you have no regrets'. Jon gave summaries of his record breaking flights and how he felt at the end of each sector. He answered many questions from the invited audience.
Jon Johanson
The Federal Parliamentary Member for Port Adelaide, The Hon. Mark Butler, officially launched the fundraising campaign and highlighted the need for the aircraft to be preserved in Port Adelaide.
Member for Port Adelaide. Hon. Mark Butler
The fundraising launch was witnessed by around 150 invited guests who were asked to give monetary support. Jon Johanson had copies of his life story book for sale and also posed for photographs.
Jon Johanson talks with guests.
Prior to the launch approximately $20,000 had been raised and the Smith Family Trust has pledged $15,000 when the total reaches $40,000'.
Nigel Daw (Secretary, SAAM) and Paul Daw (Curator, SAAM)
with Jon Johanson's book "Aiming High"
(Photo: Lasting Impression Photographics)
Aviation Enthusiasts from the West Beach Aviation Group attended the presentation.
(Photo: Lasting Impression Photographics)
Jon Johanson and the Australian Air League
(Photo: Lasting Impression Photographics)
Donations
Please consider making a donation to assist SAAM towards the purchase of Jon Johansen's RV-4. Should you wish to make a contribution, please contact SAAM on 08 8240 1230 or email treasurer@saam.org.au your donation will be gratefully received.
