Brisbane  

After flying from Los Angeles to Sydney, I had one day layover in Brisbane, Queensland. That first day was jam packed, meeting old and new friends, and visiting RAAF Amberly Base.

Phil Bradley
At the airport, I was met by Phil Bradley. Phil lived and worked in Papua New Guinea, and over the past year has been great contributor to the Pacific Wreck Database, including an interview with him and photo gallery of some of his excellent wreck photos. Viewers may also recognize his name from the discussion board, where he often answers questions.

A-20G "Hell'n Pelican II"
Walkaround tour of this famous victim of the Black Sunday mission, "Hell'n Pelican II" was recovered from Papua New Guinea in 1984. Restoration was completed in 1996.

Dennis Dogget
We were given a tour of the restoration hanger, and a chance to spend hours with the beautifully restored A-20 "Helln Pelican". Currently, Dennis is working on a PBY restoration.

Archerfield & Eagle Farm
Afterwards, Phil and I drove past Archerfield and Eagle Farm, two WWII era airfields that were important to both the USAAC and RAAF.

"Relatives" The Rawkins
That evening, I was able to link up with Tim and Amiee Rawkins, who are the grandchildren of the Australian family my grandfather, Carl R. Thien befriended during the year he was stationed at Rockhampton.

Pacific Ruby
Otto Wurth and Brian Hallam, captain of the beautiful Pacific Ruby, currently docked in Brisbane. Brian and Otto graciously had us aboard for the evening. We talked about WWII, wrecks, and New Guinea all night long.

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