First landing of the Qantas mail aeroplane in Dalby

Information was received on the morning of Wednesday 26 June 1929, that the Qantas aeroplane "Apollo", which was on the regular weekly air service between Brisbane and Charleville, would land at Dalby that morning to put down a passenger.

The news soon spread, and at 11 am, when the plane was due, there was quite a gathering of interested people at the aerodrome.

Soon the aeroplane became visible, and after landing, taxied its way to where the spectators were congregated. The pilot, Captain Moody, was greeted with hearty cheers. The disembarking passenger was Mr. H. E. Baker, of Gowrie Station, Charleville, and he and Captain Moody, were cordially welcomed by the Mayor (Alderman Victor Drury), Mr. J. A. J. Hunter, MP., & Alderman Thomas Jack.

After a brief inspection of the aeroplane, the Mayor addressed the gathering, saying that he was sure all would agree that the day was a momentous one for Dalby, having the air mail service connecting Dalby with the capital and western towns of Queensland. Capt. Moody returned thanks on behalf of Qantas for the kindly remarks and good wishes expressed.

The "Apollo", which was carrying another passenger for Blackall, also brought a parcel to Dalby for Messrs. Thomas Jack and Co., Ltd.

After an official photograph had been taken, Captain Moody farewelled the gathering, and soon had the aeroplane back in the air.