Taxi Trials - Bringing Winnie Back to Life on Bunbury Soil

There’s a special kind of excitement that only aviation can create - the kind that builds slowly, moment by moment, until it finally bursts into life. That’s exactly what we felt during Winnie’s first taxi trials here in Bunbury.

After nearly a year of restoration, engineering checks, and endless paperwork, watching our 1941 Boeing Stearman move under her own power on Australian soil for the first time was unforgettable. Her radial engine roared to life, her yellow wings caught the sunlight, and for a moment, Bunbury Airport felt like it had stepped back in time.

These taxi trials weren’t just a technical milestone; they were emotional ones too. Seeing Winnie rolling down the taxi way - confidently and full of character - reminded us exactly why we started this journey. Vintage aviation isn’t just history. It’s heart, soul, and adventure.

Behind the scenes, Johan ran through system checks, control movements, engine responses, and braking while Hayley filmed with equal parts excitement and disbelief. The grin on Johan’s face said it all: “She’s ready.”

The support from the Bunbury community has been incredible, and we can’t wait to share each chapter with you. With taxi trials complete, we moved one huge step closer to bringing vintage open-air flights to the South West.

Winnie’s story is just beginning - and so is Bunbury’s golden age of adventure.

By Hayley Coulson

Photo credit @toncret_aviation