The splendid success which attended the public presentation of the films, which I called Pearls and Savages, the picture records of my last expedition to Torres Strait … and Papua … has encouraged me to make another visit to this latter colony. My object primarily is to explore Western Papua – that unknown stretch lying west of the Kikori River to the Dutch boundary and extending from the coast to the old German boundary. … It is also my desire to further augment Pearls and Savages by eliminating scenic sections and replacing them with sensational and unique matter. My object in so doing being to exploit the films throughout the world and by thus doing, secure sufficient capital as will enable me to equip and set out on expeditions to various places without either government or private subsidy. This at once places my operations and movements beyond public criticism, and sets me entirely free to prosecute any programme I might feel inclined to embark upon. …

Owing to the impenetrable nature of jungles, swamps, mountains and rivers, the characteristic topography of Western Papua, I decided to undertake and carry out my work of survey chiefly from the air. … My opinion is that exploration of such a land can only be effectively and practically undertaken by aeroplane or seaplane. I placed my plans before Mr Lebbeus Hordern of Sydney and of whom I can only speak in eulogy.