1950s “Flying Plank” Glider at Moorabbin Airport – Fred Hoinville with Reg Todhunter Design – Press Event Photograph

This original vintage press photograph captures a unique aviation moment at Moorabbin Airport, Melbourne, as Australian pilot and “skywriter” Fred Hoinville prepares his unusual “Flying Plank” glider for testing under the watchful eyes of press and television cameramen. Built in Sydney by Reg Todhunter to an innovative American design, the Flying Plank represented a bold experiment in simple, low-cost soaring aircraft construction.

Entirely built using K.B.C. power tools, the design was intended for ease of assembly, allowing aviation enthusiasts to construct a working glider in their own backyard. This experimental plank-wing style aircraft, noted for its minimal fuselage and tailless configuration, was part of a broader push to make recreational gliding more accessible in post-war Australia.

The image shows the glider being wheeled from its hangar while photographers perch on the roof of a sedan to capture the event—an evocative snapshot of 1950s aviation culture and innovation.

Stamped and captioned on the reverse by Laurie Richards Press Agency, with original typed press release detailing the glider’s history and purpose.

Condition: Very good, with minimal edge wear and excellent contrast.
Dimensions: Approx. 8" x 10" (20 x 25 cm)
Date: Circa 1950s
Provenance: Australian press archive