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FOR PRESS: P. M. No. 72/ 1969
V IS IT BYAPOLLO_ 11 ASTRONAUTS
Statement by the Prime Minister, Mr. John Gorton
The Apollo 11 astronauts Neil Armstrong, Edwin
Aldrin and Michael Collins will visit Sydney on Saturday, 1 November
in the course of their world tour embracing over 20 countries.
The astronauts, accompanied by their wives, will reach
Sydney from Bangkok late on Friday night ( 31 October) and will leave
for Guam early on the Sunday morning.
It is unfortunate they cannot spend more time in Australia
and visit more than one city, but the United States has advised us that
this programme must be adhered to because of their heavy world
itinerary. Except for occasional rest days, their entire tour consists
of one-day visits.
Saturday, explorers I am sure those Australians who can be in Sydney on
1 November will give a warm welcome to these space-age
whose exploits caught the imagination of the world.
It would be my intention as Prime Minister to welcome
them on their arrival, and the Commonwealth Government will give a
Luncheon for them in Sydney on the Saturday. Other arrangements for
their stay will be discussed with the New South W~ ales Government.
CANBERRA September 1969
Background: The Prime Minister invited the astronauts to visit
Australia in a congratulatory cable that was awaiting
them when they were taken on board by U. S. S. " Hornet"
following their recovery in the Pacific.
Gorton, John
Period of Service: 10/01/1968 - 10/03/1971
Find more information on Gorton, John on the:
Release Date:
20/09/1969
Release Type:
Media Release
Transcript ID:
2113
Document:
00002113.pdf
1 Page(s)
Released by:
- Gorton, John Grey
FOR PRESS: P.M. NO. 72/1969 - VISIT BY APOLLO 11 ASTRONAUTS - STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER, MR. JOHN GORTON
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