The first Great Air Race between London and Australia got under way just over a century ago, reveals Robin Evans

Above: The crew with their unmodified Vimy: the gun racks were still fitted, propeller guards were yet to be installed on the centre cockpit and the registration G-EAOU was still to be applied. Bennett (second right) and Shiers (right) wear puttees and the distinctive Australian ‘slouch’ hats. As a wellbonded crew, their synergy would serve them well throughout.