Jim Whalley to Showcase CAC Boomerang and SIAI Marchetti S211
Photos courtesy of Neal Billett
In an inspiring display of aviation history and innovation, local aviation enthusiast and entrepreneur Jim Whalley is set to grace the skies at the upcoming Aldinga Airshow, showcasing his meticulously restored CAC Boomerang and the sleek SIAI Marchetti S211 Jet. The Airshow, scheduled for April 7th 2024, promises spectators a rare glimpse into the past and present of aviation excellence.
The base for Jim’s aircraft is at the nearby Goolwa Airport and Jim’s plan is to take off in the Boomerang from Goolwa and proceed directly to Aldinga Airport to perform the aerial display. The Boomerang has a very distinctive whistling sound so spectators might be able to hear it approaching over the hills. We expect Jim (a former F18 Pilot), to fly the circuit pattern at Aldinga at high speed showcasing the Boomerang’s full manoeuvring potential. It should be fantastic to witness.
Jim will then return to Goolwa where he will park the Boomerang and strap himself into the SIAI Marchetti S211 jet. Taking off a second time Jim will make the very quick trip back to join the circuit pattern at Aldinga with air-traffic control support provided by Patrick Normoyle. This flight will offer spectators a contrasting display of sight and sound.
The Historic Journey of Jim Whalley's CAC Boomerang
Jim’s aircraft collection features the CAC Boomerang, a legendary Australian fighter aircraft with a captivating history. Developed during World War II, the Boomerang holds a special place in Australia’s aviation narrative. The unique circumstances of the war prompted the need for a domestically-produced fighter, leading to the creation of Australia’s only fighter aircraft the Boomerang produced by the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation (CAC).
Jim’s Boomerang A46-63 (VH-XBL) has a close family history because Jim’s father, then Flight Lieutenant Alan Whalley, regularly flew A46-63 as part of No.84 Squadron stationed on Horn Island, Queensland in 1943.
In a rare circumstance, some 60 years later, Jim became the new owner and sponsored the restoration of A46-63. We can only imagine the feeling Jim must experience flying the same aircraft his late father flew in wartime.
With its robust construction, the Boomerang became an essential asset for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) during the war. It played a crucial role in defending Australian airspace and conducting reconnaissance missions, showcasing remarkable capabilities despite its limited resources.
After the war, many Boomerangs were retired, and only a handful survived. Jim Whalley’s dedication to aviation history led him to acquire the derelict Boomerang, its fuselage weathered by time and neglect. Jim’s team meticulously restored the aircraft to its former glory, paying homage to the skilled engineers and pilots who contributed to Australia’s defence during wartime.
CAC Boomerang Specifications
Engine: One 1,200 horsepower (890 kW) Pratt & Whitney R-1830-S3C4G 14-cylinder radial.
Weight: Empty 5,373 lbs (2,437 kg)
Max take-off weight: 8,249 lbs (3,742 kg)
Wing Span: 36ft 0in (10.97m)
Length: 25ft 9in (8.15m)
Height: 9ft 7in (2.92m)
CAC Boomerang Performance
Maximum Speed: 265 knots; 305mph; 491kph
Cruise Speed: 165 knots; 190mph; 305kph
Ceiling: 34,000ft (10,000m)
Range: 1600 miles (2,500 km)
Armament: two 20mm Hispano or CAC manufactured cannons, four 0.303 Browning machine guns.
Number built: 250
Number flying: 2
On the other end of the spectrum, is Jim’s SIAI Marchetti S211 is a sleek and modern jet trainer designed for advanced pilot training. The S211’s aerobatic capabilities and high-performance features promise an exhilarating display that contrasts with the nostalgia evoked by the Boomerang.
SIAI Marchetti S211 Specifications
Engine: One 11.1kN (2,500 lb/f) Pratt & Whitney JT15D-46
Weight: 1,850kgs (4,079lbs)
Max Take-off weight: 2,500kgs (5,512lbs)
Wing Span: 8.43m (27.7ft)
Length: 9.31m (30.5ft)
Height: 3.80m (12.5ft)
SIAI Marchetti S211 Performance
Maximum Speed: 667 kmh; 414 mph; 360 kts.
Ceiling: 12,802m (42,000ft)
Range: 2,848km (1,538NM 1,770 miles)
Armament: 5 hardpoints capable of carrying various ordinance: rocket dispensers for MK76, MK106 or 50/68mm rockets; bombs and practice bombs up to 250kg; rocket launchers from 50 to 100mm; gun pods for 7.62mm, 20mm, and 12.7mm guns and 74mm cartridge launchers.
Number Built: Approx 60
Number still airworthy: 32+
The Man Behind the Controls
Jim Whalley is one of those people who has proven that virtually anything is possible in life if you have unwavering determination and strong self-belief. Jim continues to push his own personal boundaries in everything he approaches. Jim is also very much a future-focused man. He knew flying front-line fighter aircraft like the F18 Hornet might come to an end one day so Jim set a personal mission to become Chief of the Airforce. Hence undertaking an MBA at Adelaide University. Jim thought he stood a good chance of succeeding in his mission. After all, how many F18 pilots have an MBA he thought.
One thing led to another and Jim’s focus shifted through the MBA program to establishing his own business. What started as a two-person business in the year 2000 is now Nova Systems with a global presence employing more than 850 staff and contractors with more than $300 million in annual revenue. On top of that Jim was invited to head up the Office of Chief Entrepreneur of South Australia by the previous Government.
Jim Whalley’s passion for aviation has seen him dedicate years to preserving and flying vintage aircraft, contributing significantly to Australia’s rich aviation heritage. The CAC Boomerang, a World War II-era fighter plane, and the SIAI Marchetti S211, a modern jet trainer, represent two ends of the aviation spectrum, capturing the evolution of flight over the decades.
Jim has many other aircraft in his collection but his choice to showcase the Boomerang and Marchetti at Aldinga is a unique contrast we eagerly anticipate. As spectators gather at the Aldinga Airshow, they will be treated to a unique and unforgettable experience, courtesy of Jim Whalley and his extraordinary aircraft.
