Now boarding – Mount Gambier’s new Aviation Museum is getting ready for takeoff

Calling all plane enthusiasts. South Australia is about to get a brand new aviation museum.

Now boarding – the Mount Gambier Aviation Museum is officially under development as the committee begins bringing their long-awaited plans into fruition. IMAGE: Mount Gambier Aviation Museum Strategic Plan

A new attraction will soon be landing in SA’s southeast with the new Mount Gambier Aviation Museum set to be established at the city’s airport in the coming months.

According to the museum’s chairman, Chris Holden, a dedicated group of volunteers have been “chipping away” at getting the Mount Gambier Aviation Museum off the ground for a few years now.

“The Limestone Coast has a very deep and rich aviation history and we are excited to bring the story of that history to life,” Mr Holden said.

“Our goal is to create a space where visitors can explore, learn, and be inspired by the incredible legacy of aviation in our community.”

Phase one of the museum is already underdevelopment and is set to be accessible to the public over the next three months.

This first phase will consist of three exhibits: a captivating photo board featuring old photos related to the airport’s history, showcasing its evolution and significance, three articles highlighting aspects of the airport’s history published in local publications and/or on the museum’s website, and the establishment of a historical walking trail around the airport that showcases remnants of Mount Gambier’s aviation history.

Phase one of the museum's development involves the establishment of a historical walking trail around the airport that showcases remnants of Mount Gambier's aviation history. IMAGE: Mount Gambier Aviation Museum Strategic Plan

Following the establishment of these initial exhibits, works will then progress to developing other displays which will located on the museum’s site at the Mount Gambier Regional Airport.

“Our aim is to develop something more than a static museum,” Mr Holden said.

“We want to have immersive features and attractions that will get locals, tourists and aviation enthusiasts excited about the museum.

“We will have fly-in days, airshows, hands-on exhibits, cockpit tours, engine displays, flight simulators and an aviation themed playground – overall we plan to have a lot of fun stuff that’ll be very engaging and draw people in.”

Mr Holden said plans for the museum, including the aviation playground, are in the process of being drawn-up and will be revealed to the public in the coming months.

“Having just recently secured the proper governance through the Incorporation of the Mount Gambier Aviation Museum. Inc., and funding from the Grant Council, we feel now was a good time to announce the project to the community,” he said.

Now boarding – the Mount Gambier Aviation Museum is officially under development as the committee begins bringing their long-awaited plans into fruition. IMAGE: Mount Gambier Aviation Museum Strategic Plan

“We invite people to consider any assistance they could offer in the provision, collection, assembly of any memorabilia or historic contribution and/or volunteering and to get excited about the museum’s eventual opening.”

The museum’s establishment is expected to have a significant and positive impact on Mount Gambier and the surrounding areas, positioning it as a top tourist destination and cultural drawcard for visitors from near and far.

Mr Holden said the museum hopes to attract a diverse range of visitors including locals and tourists, families, individuals and also appeal to groups/organisations such as schools and other local groups.

“We believe the museum will not only celebrate our aviation heritage but also contribute to the economic and cultural vitality of our region,” Mr Holden said.

People wishing to learn more about the museum and/or get involved with the project can do so by visiting the museum’s Facebook page and website.