Aussie Nuclear test site mustangs

[agent86]

Many years ago,When "Air Classics"was still worth buying(1970's-early 80's)I read an article about The author of the story finding a number of complete P-51's that had been used as targets at the Aussie Nuclear test site called Maralinga in the way,way Outback.The blasts were part of Operation Buffalo ,they blew up lots of gooodies but the planes were relatively unhurt.he described the stroking and jerking he had to go thru to get salvage rights and they major job moving them by truck from the bush.He even described bringing a battery,some gas,and actually firing up one of the Mustangs.After it had been sittig for something like 17 yrs!One of the greatist recovery stories of all time and one of my favorites.My old copy of Air Classics is long gone and I have been searching the net trying to find a book or article or whatever.Does Anybody have any suggestions where I might find this? Thanks,Tim
I also remember that the author planned on keeping one plane for himself .However,at the time there was no Warbird Movement in Australia and civilian ownership/flying of Ex-military fighters wasnt allowed.after much time spent trying to get permission to fly he gave up and had to sell it.What a let down from an unbelievable find.!most are flying today.

[Randy Haskin]

I have a copy of the article in one of the research binders for my Cavalier Mustangs book. Unfortunately, all of that is still on board a shipping container headed for the UK. I'm still living out of a suitcase, so I don't have access to any of my research materials at the present. The good news is that it's scheduled to be delivered this week.

If nobody has replied with the info by the time I unpack my sugar (hopefully later this week), I'll post the info. I might also be able to get you a scan if you need it.

[PeterA]

Here is a shot given to me and taken by Langdon Badger.

Just passing in the Mooney.

PeterA

[sabredriver]

Been a aussie, i found these tests by the british as a insult, for these tests were ment to be SAFE and yet they didnt do them in UK? why was this?
What was so wrong in seeing the tests in upper scotland if they were so safe as they said at time? but nope the radiation legancy will haunt us for thousands of years...

Ive viewed Maralinga from Google and its a massive area WIPED clean in recent years to clean up the massive fallout locally from the tests... the nuclear tests were insignifcant .

What stuffed it was the tests minors... RATS, TIMS, etc for effects and disperals of the componets.. espeically the uranium/plutonium releases...

I agree EMU and Maralinga are the most amazing sites.. i have info that Lincolin RAAF bombers crews flew thru the radioactive cloud in no protection what so ever... shorts, shirts, headset and shell all right mate attitude. The film badges for exposure were thrown away...

British still have alot to answer for in my respect...