A85-438 now VH-IOX was acquired by me from Commonwealth disposals in July 1979. It was rebuilt in Townsville and first flew in March 1981. It was the second Winjeel to fly in civil ownership being beaten by A85-436. Because we had no problems achieving the 25 hours required for issue of the full "permit to fly" it was the first Winjeel to achieve that permit and only the second permit to fly in Australia being beaten by a Melbourne based Harvard. It was also the first aircraft approved by the then Department of Transport and the RAAF to continue to fly in full-service markings with smaller civil registration markings on the fuselage.

Eventually the Department of Aviation relented and allowed Winjeels to perform aerobatic manoeuvres and for many years I flew low level aerobatics at air shows in this aircraft. The engine runs as smoothly when inverted as it does when upright

I have enjoyed ownership of A85-438 for over 41 years and flying it for 40 years however I accept that old age is going to catch up with me sooner or later. I am 79 and while still holding a valid licence, medical and instructor rating, it will all come to a stop one day. None of my children or grandchildren are aviation orientated so I would like it to go to another enthusiast.

All of the original RAAF logbooks are included as well as civil logbooks.

The engine "on condition" was based on civil life 1200 hrs. RAAF life was 1400 hrs

The aircraft is hangered at Redcliffe Aerodrome, QLD. (YRED)

Engine Pratt and Whitney R985, 1278 hrs SMOH (on condition) supercharged 450HP.

Prop Hamilton Standard 2D30-237. 154hrs SMOH. 846 hrs to run

VHF ICOM200 (with intercom)

Spare- Elevators, Ailerons, Rudder. (These will be supplied as spares and all require some repair or recovering)

Spare Mainwheel with new tyre and bearings. Tailwheel tyre. Towbar

Canopy moulds. (These moulds have been used to produce a number of canopies for other Winjeels)