Hudson Fysh

Introduction to Hudson Fysh

Hudson Fysh was an Australian aviator and businessman. Fysh was popularly known as the founder of Australian Airline, Qantas.

Early Life and Family Background

Hudson Fysh was born in the city of Launceston in Tasmania, Australia, on 7 January 1895. His parents were Frederick Wilmot Fysh, a merchant, and Mary Fysh, the daughter of a famous landowner.

Challenges in Childhood

Fysh was the oldest child of his parents. His childhood was marred by the failure of his parents’ marriage and the downfall of his father’s business.

Moving Between Parents

After the failure of his parents’ marriage, Fysh initially tried staying with his father but couldn’t bear the situation. He often ran away to live with his mother.

Education

Fysh attended Launceston and Geelong grammar schools. Later, in 1971, he received an honorary degree of Doctor of Engineering (EngD) during a commemoration ceremony from the University of Tasmania.

Early Career

Fysh began his career by working as a jackaroo and woolclasser after graduating from high school.

World War I Service

During World War I, Fysh served as a light horseman and later as a pilot in the Australian Flying Corps. He engaged in daring missions in Egypt and Palestine, earning the prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross for his courageous acts.

The Journey Through the Outback

In 1920, Fysh and his companion Paul McGinness were enlisted by the Queensland government to assess potential landing sites along the route from Charleville to Darwin.
They embarked on a challenging journey through the outback, encountering numerous hardships and risks.

Founding of Qantas

This experience led them to recognize the pressing need for a reliable air service to connect Australia’s vast and remote regions. In 1921, Fysh and McGinness partnered with Fergus McMaster, a wealthy grazier and entrepreneur, to establish Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services Limited, known as Qantas.

Role in Qantas

Fysh assumed the role of the company’s first manager and chief pilot. With a small fleet and staff, Qantas was launched in 1922.

Expansion of Qantas

Fysh played a vital role in the growth and expansion of Qantas. He set up regular flights to various locations in Queensland and the Northern Territory.
Additionally, he pioneered the establishment of new routes that connected Australia with Europe and America, crossing both the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.

Personal Life

Fysh married Elizabeth Eleanor Dove in 1923. The couple had two children together.

Death and Legacy

Hudson Fysh passed away in 1974 at the age of 79, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a visionary in Australian aviation.