The Dutch aircraft manufacturer Fokker has maintained a significant presence in Australian aviation history, from pioneering flights in the early 20th century to modern-day operations. This article explores the evolution of Fokker’s involvement in Australia, highlighting key milestones and the current status of Fokker aircraft in the country. See also Read more…
The Uiver Memorial Community Trust – a not-for-profit organisation – is devoted to restoring Albury’s Uiver Memorial DC-2 aircraft. In 1934 the MacRobertson Air Race proclaimed itself as the greatest international air race devised, and history has confirmed that bold claim. The aircrews that completed the journey from England to Read more…
In 1920, several major Dutch shipping companies joined forces to create the Vereenigde Nederlandsche Scheepvaartmaatschappij (United Netherlands Shipping Company), known by its initials VNS. Their aim was to streamline operations and strengthen global maritime links — including important routes to Australia. Over the following decades, the member lines of the Read more…
A major maritime discovery has brought to light a remarkable episode in Dutch-Australian history. In March 2025, after more than 160 years hidden beneath the shifting sands of Long Beach near Robe, South Australia, the wreck of the Koning Willem de Tweede was found. The Dutch merchant ship had sunk Read more…
In the immediate aftermath of World War II, the Netherlands faced a monumental challenge. While its homeland lay in ruins after years of occupation, it also had to grapple with re-establishing authority and humanitarian order in its colony, the Netherlands East Indies (NEI), which had been under brutal Japanese occupation Read more…
The long-standing relationship between the Netherlands and Australia has taken on a new dimension through shipbuilding. Dutch shipbuilding giant Damen, one of Europe’s premier maritime engineering companies, is playing a growing role in Australia’s naval and civilian maritime sectors. Founded in 1927, Damen Shipyards Group has become one of the Read more…
We are trying to get information and foto’s on the Zuiderzee (or Zuider Zee) Restaurant that was situated on Ferny Ave in Surfers Paradise. Unconfirmed information indicates it was established in the 1950 possibly by the van Egmond Family. After it stopped operating as a restaurant it became the clubhouse Read more…
The MacRobertson Trophy Air Race (also known as the London to Melbourne Air Race) took place in October 1934 as part of the Melbourne Centenary celebrations. The race was devised by the Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Sir Harold Gengoult Smith, and the prize money of £15,000 was provided by Sir Read more…
John Rothwell, who anglicised his Dutch name, is the co-founder and chairman of Austal Limited. Rothwell’s leadership and vision were instrumental in transforming Austal into a global leader in shipbuilding. In 1990, John Rothwell penned a strategic paper that would shape the future of Austal. In this document, Rothwell outlined Read more…
Sailors Boesidien and Samanuddin were members of the Netherlands Merchant Navy during World War II and are interred at Toowong Cemetery in Brisbane. Their service highlights the significant role of Dutch merchant vessels in the Allied efforts in the Pacific. Boesidien (1909–1942): Born in Bengkalan, Java, Boesidien served aboard the Read more…