With good credentials from BMW I applied for a job at Trans-Australia Airlines, based at Essendon Airport in May 1960. 

I entered employment as an Aircraft Mechanic on 23/5/1960. My job was to drive a special vehicle around the tarmac several times a day. I would collect aircraft wheels and take them back to the workshop for inspection and maintenance. My first weekly wage was about 11 Australian Pounds.

The workshop hangar was directly opposite the passenger terminal. My foreman was Mr. Fillingham.

I met James Arthur Loveden from Kent, England. Jimmy was ex Australian Navy and specialised in aircraft undercarriages. He became my friend for life but passed away a few years ago.

I remember watching a King from a European Nation arriving one day, being welcomed with a bouquet of flowers.

I left TAA in February 1961.