In 1913, Francis Aldritt designed an aero plane, making the propeller and engine, and John Conroy made the frame of the engine. The first trial was in the Parish Priest’s field (now the C.B.S. sports field). The first trial was a failure but Frank Aldritt persevered, redesigning the engine in July 1914. The remodeling aero plane was brought by Francis Aldritt and John O’ Conner to the great Heath of Maryborough. The plane piloted by Francis Aldritt flew several feet into the air before landing again.

Owing to the outbreak of war, the government banned further test flights and purchased the patent.