Western Sydney International (WSI) Airport is proudly inspired by powerhouse women – you may already be aware that our new airport is named after ‘The Angel of the Outback’ Nancy Bird Walton. In another acknowledgement of pioneering women in aviation, Sydney Metro West (Western Sydney Airport line) has announced the naming of one of its Tunnel Boring Machines after Nancy’s long-time friend and co-pilot, Peggy Kelman.
At just 19, Nancy Bird Walton was the youngest woman to gain her commercial pilot's license. She put these skills to use when asked to set up a remote air ambulance service, and shortly after she began flying for the Royal Far West Children’s Health Scheme.
During World War II, Walton set up the Australian Women’s Air Training Corps before founding the Australian Women Pilots’ Association in 1950 and remained its president until 1990.
Nancy’s friend and co-pilot, Peggy Kelman was the seventh woman in Australia to receive her private pilot license in 1935, and the only woman to fly from England to Australia while pregnant!
Peggy was a member of the International Women Pilots Association; the Ninety-Nines, and later became Australian Governer of the organisation.
Nancy and Peggy’s burning passion to fly came with many obstacles, however, they managed to overcome them with their great determination and self-belief.
Peggy’s Aunt once said, “You are very selfish; as the only child of a widow, you should give up this flying before your poor mother has to grieve for you”.
Eileen Cammack also has a Tunnel Boring Machine named in her honour. Eileen established the first pathology service in Penrith in 1948 and she was appointed Government Medical Officer for the Nepean District in 1961. Later she became the first woman Mayor of Penrith for three terms from 1975-1978.
Tunnel Boring Machine Catherine, namesake; Catherine White, was a social justice and gender equality activist. A relentless advocate against violence against women. Catherine managed the Womens Activities and Self-Help House and was awarded the Blacktown Woman of the Year Award in 2012.
True to tunnelling tradition across the world, the Tunnel Boring Machines on the Metro West Project are named after women to bring luck to the workers who look to Saint Barbara for protection.
These women are beacons of inspiration for women everywhere, and their legacy will live on throughout this milestone project.
