Can anyone identify this RAAF crane

[Col Tigwell]

Well by early January this crane was gone from Richmond at least.

Perhaps to disposals as all the Beaufighters were long gone, and Neptune engine changes were done using a Fawler.

A8-358 has a very mild history.

Was stored until 30/5/51
Then was converted to target towing and allotted to 30 Sqdn.

Undercarriage collapsed on landing at Richmond 14/11/55.

Aircraft sent to Tocumal 3/2/56 for storage and sold for scrap 28/657.

So we know that the crane existed on 14/11/55 and was gone by 8/1/57.

I suspect that these cranes were taken out of service, because they were not allowed to be driven by groundstaff. Where as the Fowlers could be driven by any approved driver.

Makes sense not to tie up a driver when doing an engine change.

Thank goodness for aircraft the RAAF kept and have retained good records.

Shame they had not done it with transport.

Regards

Col