BATTLE OF BRITAIN ‘LACE’
After a period away from public display, the iconic Avro Lancaster bomber “G for George” has returned to pride of place as the centrepiece of the Australian War Memorial’s new exhibition highlighting the significant contribution of Australian airmen to Bomber Command during World War II.
The revamped display, titled Australians in Bomber Command, features a wide range of exhibits designed to illustrate the critical role played by Australian personnel in the Allied bombing campaign over Europe. Organisers say the exhibition underscores the extraordinary bravery and resilience shown by the thousands of Australian aircrew who operated in the dangerous skies above wartime Germany and occupied Europe.
Members of the Bomber Command Association Australia (BCAA) were given an exclusive sneak preview of the new galleries on Monday 23 March, ahead of their public opening in April. The visit took place during a narrow window between ongoing construction works, requiring attendees to don high-visibility vests for safety.
The group was guided by Chris Widenbar, Deputy Project Director at the Australian War Memorial, and escorted by Patrick Thomas. The tour began near the F-111 aircraft and progressed through three newly developed areas covering Australia’s military involvement in Afghanistan, the Middle East conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. Each section provides a comprehensive overview of the respective campaigns, supported by an extensive collection of artefacts and exhibits.
Visitors then passed through a temporary doorway to enter the Australians in Bomber Command gallery, where “G for George” once again dominates the space—though now integrated as part of a much broader and richer narrative of Australian service, rather than standing largely alone as in its previous display.
A highlight of the private tour was the opportunity to hear directly from the curators responsible for the research and development of the new exhibitions. Dr Lachlan Grant, Shane Casey, and Emily Hyles shared insights into the extensive work undertaken to ensure historical accuracy and depth. Emily Hyles is well known to BCAA members for her earlier presentation on war brides at the association’s Christmas luncheon.
Attendees expressed gratitude for the special access and voiced excitement about returning once the displays are fully completed, particularly to explore the interactive elements, videos, and multimedia features that will complement the static exhibits.
The BCAA described the soft opening as a memorable and valuable experience. One member who travelled from Adelaide was particularly moved when he discovered his father’s name featured on one of the displays.