GrainCorp Silos at Lake Boga - Victoria

The GrainCorp Silos at Lake Boga were painted by renowned silo artist Tim Bowtell in October 2023

Tim has created a masterpiece showcasing the towns history including the Catalina Flying Boat and its commanding officer George Urquhart.

George Urquhart Allan, known as "Scotty" Allan, had a remarkable career as an aviator with a rich history.

George Urquhart Allan was born in Bellshill (Forgandenny), Scotland. In 1917, at the age of 17, he joined the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) and served on the Western Front during World War I. His service included time with the 71 Squadron RFC and later with the Royal Air Force (RAF) in various squadrons, such as 11, 47, and 58 Squadrons.

After World War I, Allan continued his service with the RAF and was stationed in the Middle East.

In 1929, George Allan was recruited by Charles Ulm and emigrated to Australia to work for Charles Kingsford Smith and Ulm's Australian National Airways. He gained a reputation for his piloting skills, particularly flying the Avro X aircraft.

George Allan was part of several historic flights, including the first airmail flights from Sydney to Brisbane with Charles Kingsford-Smith and from Sydney to Melbourne with Pat Hall. Following the collapse of Australian National Airways in 1931, Allan acted as a co-pilot to both Kingsford Smith and Ulm on various long-distance flights.

In 1933, Allan flew with Charles Ulm and P.G. Taylor on the record-breaking flight from England to Australia in the aircraft "Faith in Australia." This achievement marked a significant milestone in aviation history.

In October 1934, George Allan joined QANTAS, where he was involved in the DH86 service between Brisbane and Singapore, flying DH86 aircraft.

Apart from his flying duties, Allan also worked as a flight instructor. He trained Dr. Lee Brown, a surgeon, and the husband of Ailsa Craig, an artist and aviator. Unfortunately, Dr. Brown lost his life in a plane crash in 1934.

In 1935, George Allan and Ailsa Craig, daughter of Dr. Lee Brown, got married. They lived in Brisbane for two years due to George's work commitments.

George Urquhart "Scotty" Allan's contributions to aviation, his involvement in record-breaking flights, and his work with renowned aviators like Charles Kingsford Smith and Charles Ulm make him a significant figure in the history of Australian aviation.

Don't forget when visiting Lake Boga to visit the Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum.

https://www.flyingboat.org.au/

Article Credit: Pittwater Online News https://www.pittwateronlinenews.com/george-scotty-allan-history.php