Military aviation museum a tribute to history and service
The Maryborough Military Aviation Museum Association is pursuing its mission to preserve the rich aviation heritage of the region by building a world-class museum complex at Maryborough Airport.
As part of its fundraising efforts, a social event will be held on Saturday 9 September, with special guest speaker RAAF representative Air Vice-Marshal David Dunlop (rtd) sharing stories from Maryborough’s aviation history.
Everyone is welcome at the special walk back in history, set against the backdrop of Gatakers Creative Space, at 311 Kent Street Maryborough. The event starts at 5:30pm and tickets are available through Eventbrite.
Earlier on the same day, Saturday 9 September, starting at 2:30pm, a special unveiling ceremony will be held at the Maryborough War Memorial and Cenotaph as a tribute to those who have served their country.
Supported by the DVA Saluting Their Service Grant Program, two bronze plaques will be installed at the War Memorial and Cenotaph. One of the plaques will pay homage to the RAAF Station that operated from the Maryborough Airport during the pivotal period of World War II. This tribute extends to all the individuals who donned the RAAF uniform, especially commemorating the 3,143 members who tragically lost their lives in service during the RAAF’s first century, and whose final resting places remain unknown.
The second plaque will serve as a reminder of the invaluable contributions made by Australian women in RAAF and RAN Medical Services. Their service during World War II, Korea, Malaya, and Vietnam will be celebrated, alongside a broader recognition of medical personnel from the Australian Army, Air Force, and Navy who selflessly served in various theatres of war.
Following the unveiling ceremony, a complimentary guided tour of the Gallipoli to Armistice Memorial will provide a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those who served.
Building a museum
The Maryborough Military Aviation Museum Association Inc is a not-for-profit community organisation formed to develop a military aviation museum complex at the Maryborough Airport.
The museum collection is continually growing, and has over 300 items including a Wackett and Tiger Moth aircraft that are being restored to serve as static displays.
Now at the construction stage, the museum will commemorate the considerable RAAF service in Maryborough during World War II, in particular No. 3 WAGS.
The Association has an ongoing campaign to raise funds for the complex and enquiries can be directed to mmamsecretary@gmail.com.
Caption: Museum volunteers and aviation enthusiasts at work.