VH-UVY  Tugan (Wackett) LJW.7A Gannet  (c/n TA.55)

                                  
 
                                Like the earlier "Codock" (VH-URP) the Gannet was an indigenous Australian light transport
                                designed by Lawrence J. Wackett.  It was originally produced by Tugan Aircraft, although this
                                concern was absorbed by the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation early in 1937 and its prod-
                                ucts were thereafter known as "Wackett" aircraft, after their famed designer.  Six new Gannets
                                were acquired by the RAAF the early days of WW II for ambulance duties.  VH-UVY was built
                                as a pure civilian machine but impressed  into service with the RAAF as A14-7 after being used
                                by CAC as a company "hack" for several years.   Most Gannets were powered by two 200 hp
                                D.H. Gipsy Six engines,  although in the event, VH-UVY had two 200 hp Menasco B6S motors.
                                The image below, courtesy of the State Library of New South Wales, shows the machine after a
                                slight prang at Gosford, NSW, date unknown.   It appears to be guarded by RAAF personnel so
                                perhaps it was after impressment, but before camouflage and serial had been applied.

                           


 





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