Smithy

Smithy recreates the dramatic life of Australia's world renowned aviation hero Sir Charles Kingsford Smith. Affectionately known as "Smithy", he astonished the world in 1928 with his pioneering Trans Pacific flight from America to Australia. He went on to establish Australian National Airways and set air distance and endurance records. Director Ken G. Hall's last feature film is a gripping and inspiring tribute to a national hero and his fellow pioneers. Contributing to the stunning aerial shots Smithy's famous plane, the Southern Cross, appears in what was to be its last flight. Some key figures play themselves - Prime Minister Billy Hughes, radio operator John Stannage, and co-pilot PG Taylor. Composer Alfred Hill created a memorable music score, superbly performed by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Released in 1946, the film was a smash hit and achieved worldwide recognition. (National Film & Sound Archive of Australia)