What happened
During a local flight in the south Sydney area, the single-engine aircraft experienced a loss of control. The machine spun between Prince Henry Hospital and Long Bay Gaol before crashing to the ground. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. The pilot, identified as Mrs. Betty Faux, was killed in the accident.
The involved aircraft, registered VH-AAQ, had a unique history rooted in wartime resourcefulness. It was originally constructed by the Aero Club of NSW at Mascot using components from a previous wreck. Specifically, the airframe was based on a Moth (registration VH-UHQ) that had been severely damaged by fire in a hangar at Wagga on 10 December 1939. Rebuilt during the war years when acquiring new aircraft was difficult, it was designated as a D.H.60GIII Moth Major with construction number 1. The rebuilt aircraft completed its test flight on 14 December 1943 and remained in service with the Royal Aero Club of New South Wales for approximately two years until this fatal incident.