War from a carpenter’s perspective

A Royal Australian Air Force carpenter who served in the Pacific Theatre during WWII is the subject of a unique photographic exhibition currently running at the Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre.

CAPTION: This photo of Corporal George Beardow (right) and his mates features in the George Beardow’s War in the Pacific exhibition at the Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre. Story Flight Lieutenant Karyn Markwell

The temporary exhibition George Beardow’s War in the Pacific was compiled by Queensland psychologist and researcher Juanita Muller.

On display since 3 May and running for a year, the exhibition depicts the experiences of Corporal George Beardow, who enlisted in the Air Force in 1942 at the age of 46 and served as carpenter general with 30SQN (Bristol Beaufighters).

Dr Muller said the photos provided a different perspective on the war.

“Most people think of infantry soldiers, pilots and battle when they envisage the war, but there were many other important roles,’ Dr Muller said.

‘‘What clearly comes through is the camaraderie of George and his mates, despite the background of war.”

The heritage centre is a fitting location for the exhibition because Corporal Beardow served the remainder of his military service at RAAF Base Amberley after he returned from the Pacific.

The centre’s OIC Wing Commander Clive Wells said the exhibition linked to one of the centre’s larger displays in the WWII hangar.

“This display outlines the RAAF’s involvement in the Pacific Theatre, in particular, Milne Bay and Goodenough Island,” Wing Commander Wells said.

George Beardow’s War in the Pacific is expected to be on display at the centre for a year.

To register to attend the Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre, including the George Beardow’s War in the Pacific exhibition, visit: raafamberleyheritage.gov.au.

For information about Juanita Muller, visit: juanitamuller.com.au

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