Save Historic Victoria Police Helicopter VH-PVF

*As of Wednesday 9th of September 2021, ownership has now been transferred to the museum. Thank you to those who supported us.*

This Aerospatiele AS-365C1 Dauphine Helicopter, registered VH-PVF was the very first helicopter put into service by Victoria Police in the early 1980’s, and was affectionally known to Victorians as ‘Daphne’. 

Most would agree, Daphne is the most iconic and historically important helicopter in Australia. Daphne faithfully served the Victorian public for over 20 years in Police, Ambulance and Search and Rescue roles. She saved lives in the deadly Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race (1998) and evacuated people to safety during the Ash Wednesday bush fires (1983); The list of her admirable service is endless.

Many Victorians would remember the distinctive sound Daphne made as she flew overhead, on the way to save someone in danger, or out patrolling the streets late at night. 

Daphne was decommissioned in 2001 and was lost to the public until she was located and purchased by me once being positively identified. Sadly, Daphne will never fly again, so my intention is to see her donated to the Moorabbin Aviation Museum where she will be restored for static display for future generations. 

I am seeking to recover my acquisition costs. Once repaid, I will donate Daphne along with sourced major components to the museum.

Any money over the costs of repaying the debts will be donated directly to the Museum to assist in her restoration.

It would be a great shame to see this valuable piece of Australian and Victorian aviation history lost forever.

Thank you to everyone who takes part in helping restore Daphne.  Please get on board for her final journey.

I would like to express my sincere thanks for the support of a special team of ex-Aircrew and Maintenance personnel/colleagues who believe in this project. I also want to thank a lifelong mate for helping me store her while we try to get this done.




(As she was when located and identified)


(At her current resting place)


(Out on operations)


(Out on operations)