Aviation museum takes off

CRAIG WINTER

DURING WWII, Maryborough was chosen as a base for a Wireless Air Gunner School and Air Navigation School under the Empire Air Training Scheme.

Over 120 military buildings were constructed there in the early 1940s.

President of the Maryborough Military Aviation Museum Association Jenny Elliot says that the airport’s history didn’t stop there.

“In May 1945, the Royal Navy formed MONAB for training crew and the assembly of aircraft.” she said.

“HMS Nabstock arrived at RAAF Station Maryborough on 1 June 1945.

“Nine Royal Navy Air Squadrons were based at Maryborough and at its peak there were 127 buildings on site.

“The six remaining buildings and Bellman Hangar are on the Queensland Heritage Register.”

On Sunday 18 September, the MMAMA is partnering with the Maryborough Aero Club for a fly-in and sod turning to officially launch the Museum.

“The museum collection is continually growing, and we currently have over 270 items including genuine Wackett and Tiger Moth aircraft that are being restored to serve as static displays.”

The Museum is now at the investment ready stage, and the Association is searching for funding and sponsorship to construct a world class museum complex.

The Maryborough Aero Club will host a fly-in for recreational aviation enthusiasts over the weekend to celebrate 75 years of occupancy in the heritage listed former RAAF Station Maryborough Flight Office building.

The Club boasts up to 100 local pilots who regularly make use of the Maryborough Airport and it’s facilities.