Luke speaks with Paul Spottiswood, Former pilot with Ansett Australia for 20 years, who has an outstanding knowledge of the history of Australia’s skies and knows all the great yarns including one that has a 45th anniversary this weekend – the disappearance of Frederick Valentich twenty years ago.

Valentich, a 20-year-old with around 150 hours of flight experience and a class-four instrument rating, could fly at night under specific weather conditions but was rejected twice by the Royal Australian Air Force due to educational qualifications.

He aspired to an aviation career, studying part-time to become a commercial pilot, albeit with a less than stellar academic record. Just before his vanishing, he had failed three more commercial license subjects.

Valentich’s last flight was bound for King Island, though the purpose behind it remains a mystery. He initially claimed to be picking up friends and later stated it was for crayfish, both of which were found to be false. He also failed to notify King Island Airport of his landing plans, departing from standard procedures.

At 7:06 pm, Valentich contacted Melbourne Flight Service, reporting an unidentified aircraft tailing him at 4,500 feet. Officials indicated no known traffic at that level. He described a large, brightly lit, unknown aircraft orbiting above him with a shiny metal surface and a green light.

Valentich also reported engine problems, and when asked to identify the aircraft, he responded, “It’s not an aircraft.” Subsequently, metallic scraping sounds interrupted his transmission, leading to a loss of all contact.

UFO’s – A Remarkable Australian Story is presented by Paul Spottiswood Saturday 21st October at 2pm – 4.30pm

Relaxation Centre of Queensland
15 South Pine Road Alderley 4051
(between Alderley Avenue and Wakefield Street)
Tickets: $12 available through using the link below

https://www.relaxationcentreqld.org/programme/ufos-a-remarkable-australian-story/

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