VH-DMV was built as a C-47A (c/n 14050). The aircraft saw service with the USAAF as 43-48234, having previously had the RAF identity KG818. It was acquired by DCA in Manila from the US government in March 1947 and refurbished as an airways survey aircraft by Butler Air Transport, Mascot. Following the change in DCA registration policy, the aircraft was re-registerered as VH-CAO in February 1951. VH-DMV was based at the DCA Flying Unit's Melbourne/Essendon headquarters throughout its career with the Department.

Although of poor quality, the photo above is of considerable interest due to the 'Department of Civil Aviation Australia' title on the fuselage above the windows, the barely-legible title 'Airways Survey Flight' under the windows, and the DCA badge on the fin. It was taken at Essendon in April 1949.

(Photo: John Hopton collection)