The 95th anniversary of Australia's first major airline disaster has been marked with a commemorative visit to the Southern Cloud crash site in Kosciuszko National Park.
National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Rangers accompanied 94-year-old Tom Sonter, who discovered the wreckage in 1958, to the steep, densely forested site near Mount Jagumba where the aircraft came down.
The Southern Cloud, part of the Australian National Airways fleet, vanished en route from Sydney to Melbourne in 1931. The wreckage was not located for 27 years. All eight people on board lost their lives.
The visit served as a solemn tribute to those lost passengers and highlighted the diverse and often lesser-known history held within the park's alpine landscape.
The trek to the very remote site took close to 2 hours through dense Alpine Ash woodlands and along the way Mr Sonter reflected on the moment that changed his life decades ago.
A wreath was also laid at the site and a moment silence was held to show respect for those who lost their lives.
The crash site itself is remote and difficult to access. Visitors wishing to pay their respects are encouraged to visit the Southern Cloud Memorial Lookout on Tooma Road, which offers panoramic views across the ranges where the aircraft disappeared.
The disaster is also marked with a public memorial in Cooma and is recognised at the National Museum of Australia where parts of the wreckage are stored.
Quotes attributable to NPWS Ranger, Michelle Watson:
"It is such a privilege to accompany Mr Sonter back to this site. His discovery forms an important chapter in the cultural and aviation history of Kosciuszko National Park.
"It's a bittersweet experience, reflecting on such tragedy in a place of extraordinary natural beauty."
Quotes attributable to Tom Sonter, who discovered the wreck:
"Sixty-eight years ago, I was walking near Deep Creek when I noticed a small mound of earth that looked out of place.
"I went to investigate and saw a piece of steel protruding from the leaves. When I brushed it aside, I immediately recognised it as part of an aircraft tail section. It was a moment of absolute shock."
"Coming back now to pay my respects is deeply important to me. It's something I've never forgotten."
