2010 has been a big year for the Temora Aviation Museum. In July we received awards at the Inland NSW Tourism awards, winning Best in Heritage and Cultural Tourism for the third year in a row and entered the Hall of Fame.

In November the 2010 NSW Tourism awards were held with the Museum taking out the Gold award for the Heritage and Cultural Tourism category and the Festivals and Events Category. We also received a Silver award for the Tourist Attractions category recognizing the success of the Museum as a destination.

The change in format from Flying Weekends to Aircraft Showcase Days twice a month has been a huge success and we have enjoyed many visiting aircraft which participated in our flying program. We were fortunate to have Birddogs, Harvards, Trojans, Kittyhawk, Auster, Gipsy Moth, Royal Australian Navy’s Huey helicopter, Royal Australian Air Force’s Hawks, HARS Catalina, plus many others. We thank those who participated in our historic flying displays and look forward to seeing them again in 2011.

Aircraft from the Museum have taken part in many outside activities during the year, including appearances at several airshows, open days, ANZAC Day fly-bys and special events.

The Staff, Volunteers and Crew from the Temora Aviation Museum would like to thank everyone that visited the Museum throughout the year. Your patronage helps us to keep our aircraft flying.

Our opening hours throughout the holiday period remain 10 am to 4 pm daily, except for closure on New Years Day (Saturday 1 January 2011). Make your way to the Riverina during the holiday season and visit the Temora Aviation Museum Aircraft Collection. Our team of dedicated volunteers will be here and happy to show visitors through, offering information on the aircraft and the Museum.

We are already in full preparation for our next Aircraft Showcase Day which will be January 15th. The theme of the day will be Vietnam and the aircraft featured will be the Birddog, Cessna A-37B Dragonfly and the Royal Australian Navy Historic Flight Huey. We have a special program planned which you won’t want to miss. We look forward to seeing you there!

The Temora Aviation Museum would like to wish all our newsletter subscribers a very safe and happy new year.

This weekend Temora Aviation Museum is presenting a Pacific Theatre theme for the last Aircraft Showcase of 2010. On the flying program are the Lockheed Hudson, Spitfire Mk VIII and Allan Arthur’s P-40 Kittyhawk.

The Lockheed Hudson is the only twin engine World War II bomber flying in Australia. This aircraft was one of 247 Hudsons which served with the RAAF during and after the war. In addition to the traditional bombing role the Hudson proved to be a versatile aircraft and was used for multiple roles including troop transport, VIP transport and coastal patrol which included air/sea rescue where a lifeboat was carried under the fuselage. At the completion of its RAAF service, our Hudson was owned by East West Airlines as a passenger carrying airliner and then Adastra Aerial Surveys where it was used in the role of high altitude photographic survey. In 1976 Malcolm Long purchased the aircraft and began a restoration process which saw the aircraft returned to airworthy condition and operated in memory of all the Australians that served in bomber crews during WWII. The Hudson became part of our collection in 2004 and is flown on a regular basis during Aircraft Showcase events and Airshows around Australia.

The Museum’s Mk VIII Spitfire is also flying this Saturday. Powered by the Rolls Royce’s V-12 Merlin which is harnessed to a propeller which swings four large wood blades, the Spitfire is an aircraft that sounds as beautiful as it looks. Painted in RAAF 457 Squadron colors, the Mk VIII carries the markings of Wing Commander R.H. (Bobby) Gibbes AM WG CMR DSO DFC*.

Allan Arthur is bringing his beautiful 1943 P-40N1 Kittyhawk to Saturday’s Aircraft Showcase. Powered by an Allison 1710 V-12 engine which is rated at 1400 horsepower, it was retrieved as a wreck from a fire dump in New Zealand. It has been completely restored and painted to represent GAQ from RAF 112 Shark Squadron, which fought in the Middle East against Rommel. The rebuild process took more then six years and was completed in 2006. Since then the aircraft has flown more then 130 hours. In addition to Allan, three other pilots regularly fly the P-40, Steve Death, Doug Hamilton and Scott Taberner.

Temora Aviation Museum’s Aircraft Showcase is an opportunity to get up close to the aircraft and see them where they are meant to be – in the air! After the flying there is time for a tour through the Engineering Hangar to see what projects our Engineering Team is working on. They have prepared many things to show this weekend and will also share with you their knowledge on non destructive inspection techniques, the theory and construction of gas turbine engines and the principles of operation of radial engines. We also screen a film in the Display Hangar and the pilots are available to chat with our visitors as well. The weather for Saturday will be brilliant for flying with clear skies predicted and a top temperature of 25 degrees.

MESS HALL
The Museum’s Mess Hall will be open for business on Saturday with a menu that would certainly out do the original Mess Hall from WWII. Steak and sausage sandwiches and a selection of cut sandwiches plus hot and cold drinks and ice creams are all available for purchase. This weekend our Mess Hall will be operated by the Temora Quota Club. Quota International, founded in 1919, is an international service organization that links members of all ages, occupations, and nationalities in a worldwide network of service and friendship. With a motto of “we share,” Quotarians are known especially for their service to deaf, hard-of-hearing, and speech-impaired individuals and disadvantaged women and children. Quota members share the values of serving and encouraging others, developing friendships, and promoting international understanding. Recently the Museum introduced a new streamlined method of payment at the Mess Hall which means you will be served faster and you can pay for your food using EFTPOS.

SPECIAL SHOPPING OFFER
Its only ten days until Christmas and our Gift Shop here in Temora is well stocked for the season. We have a range of aviation gift items to suit men, women and children of all ages. If you are unable to visit us in person you can still purchase those last minute gift items using our online giftshop at www.aviationmuseum.com.au/shop. If you looking for ideas why not get a limited edition polo shirt featuring the RAAF Sabre or some airplane earrings available in either gold or silver. Don’t forget our Christmas Special. We are offering a special gift for all orders made between today and Christmas Day. If you spend $50 or more on merchandise from our online shop, we will give you a FREE ANNUAL PASS to the Temora Aviation Museum (including Showcase Days) valued at $50.

Two RAAF Hawk’s will add to Saturday’s Aircraft Showcase- Jet Fighters impressive line up of aircraft. The Cessna A37 Dragonfly will not by flying as per the original program but has been replaced by the ever popular Spitfire Mk VIII, Wirraway and two visiting Harvard’s. The Meteor and Sabre will complete the flying program for what will be a huge day for the second last Aircraft Showcase for 2010. One of the RAAF Hawks will be on static display and the other will take to the skies and perform a high energy low level aerobatic display.

It has been some time since the RAAF Hawks have made an appearance at Temora so be sure to come out and experience Aircraft Showcase-Fighters and see them in detail. The Royal Australian Air Force Hawk 127 is primarily used for initial or lead-in fighter training to prepare aircrew for operational conversion to the F/A-18 Hornet fighter. It is operated by No 76 Squadron at RAAF Base Williamtown, near Newcastle, and No 79 Squadron at RAAF Base Pearce, near Perth.

The Hawk 127 is a low-wing all-metal aircraft, fitted with an integrated navigation and attack system, and powered by a single Adour Mk 871 turbofan engine. The avionics system is integrated via a 1553 multiplex database. The principle components are two display and mission computers (DMCs), which co-ordinate, process and command the display of information from the communications, navigation and attack sub-systems. Each cockpit has hands-on-throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) controls.

The head-up display (HUD) in the front cockpit and three colour multi-function displays (MFD) in each cockpit present a range of flight information, ranging from aircraft performance and attitude through to equipment status reports. Mission-specific data can be pre-programmed by the pilot and downloaded into the system. Equipment performance, aircraft fatigue and engine life data is monitored and recorded by a health and usage monitoring system (HUMS).

The Hawk 127 armament system provides for the carriage, aiming and release or firing of practice and Mk 82 bombs, AIM-9M Sidewinder missiles and a 30mm cannon. The stores are carried on two wingtip missile stations or pylon-mounted on four underwing and one centreline hardpoints. A 30mm Aden cannon carried in a gun pod can be installed on the centreline station in place of the pylon. Stores are controlled by the integrated stores management system (SMS).

Click on the link top see a video clip on the RAAF Hawk courtesy of Air Force’s YouTube Channel http://www.youtube.com/user/AirForceHQ?gl=AU&hl=en-GB#p/u/43/BARsxKM57O8

Aircraft Showcase gives you a more detailed experience from the pilots perspective but also includes insights from our engineers with the Engineering Hangar Tour becoming one of the most popular parts of the day. The Engineering Hangar Tour encourages our visitors to talk one-on-one with our experienced team as they give detailed demonstrations and talks on the various aspects and operations of our aircraft.

For this Saturdays Engineering Tour some interesting demonstrations are planned. David Finch, our jet engine specialist, has a Rolls Royce Avon jet engine stripped down so you can see the internal workings, and he will be showing an animated video of how a jet engine functions. The Sabres, gas operated, Aden cannon will be on display with our engineers showing you how they work as well as a Pratt & Whitney R1340 cut-away engine showing the amazing internal workings as it is rotated.

So with the RAAF Hawks making an appearance, six other warbird aircraft and an array of interesting engineering demonstrations planned there has never been better opportunity to come and experience Aircraft Showcase.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING – SPECIAL OFFER
With Christmas fast approaching, you can purchase a gift from our wide range of merchandise at our online giftshop. We have something for everyone, toys, books, DVD’s, Homewares, Clothing and Caps. Our range this Christmas includes a variety of camouflage items including shower caps, aprons, oven mitts, tea towels and cosmetic bags.

We are offering a special Christmas promotion for all orders made between today and Christmas Day. If you spend $50 or more on merchandise from our online shop, we will give you a FREE ANNUAL PASS to the Temora Aviation Museum (including Showcase Days) valued at $50.

Check out the shop now!

http://www.aviationmuseum.com.au/shop/

On Friday night at the NSW Tourism Awards, the Temora Aviation Museum was fortunate to win awards in three categories.

This annual awards function is an opportunity for tourism based businesses in NSW to be recognised for their hard work and achievements. Going into the night we were finalists in three categories and were hoping for a great outcome.

In the Tourist Attraction category we received the Silver Award this year an improvement on last years Bronze.

In the Festivals and Events category we submitted for judging the Launch of the Sabre in September 2009 and were honoured to receive the Gold Award for this event.

Our third category was Heritage and Cultural tourism which we have won for the past two years. We were delighted to receive Gold again this year and as a result the Museum has been inducted into the Tourism Hall of Fame.

Category winners from each state are now judged against each other with National winners to be announced in March 2011 at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Perth.

Of course, winning these awards would not be possible without the tremendous effort that has been put in by every member of our team. We also want to thank our visitors for their ongoing support of the Museum and continued interest in preserving Australia’s Military Aviation Heritage. Temora Aviation Museum President, David Lowy, said “This is a great moment for the Museum and I am very proud of what the team has achieved. I congratulate everyone for their efforts.”

Pictures

http://www.aviationmuseum.com.au/news/PictureGallery2010.cfm

The weekend is rapidly approaching and the Museum staff are getting ready for Aircraft Showcase – Forward Air Control. The Museum’s Cessna O-2A and A-37B Dragonfly will be joined by visiting aircraft which include two Cessna Birddogs, owned by Gordon Glynn, The Royal Australian Navy Historic Flight’s UH-1 Huey and Steve Death’s T-28 Trojan. The Iroquois UH1B helicopter is graced with the iconic helicopter shape and the classic “wokka wokka” chopper sound. The UH-1 was used extensively in Vietnam throughout the 1960′s, was assigned to 135th Assault Helicopter Company (part of US 214th Combat Aviation Battalion) and now has a home with Nowra’s Historic Flight.

The Museum’s Cessna O-2A and both Birddogs are Forward Air Control veterans with records showing that the O-2A has logged more the 4,100 hours in combat. Gordon’s grey Birddog logged in excess of 10,000 combat flying hours, was shot down twice and had a mid air collision with a fighter which cut off several feet of one wing. The pilot Lt Col Richard Brown, who was a veteran of WWII and Korea, managed to land safely. This aircraft now carries the markings of the Royal Thai Air Force. The green ‘Dog was used as a FAC and served with Air America including some time with the Ravens. At one stage of its life it had twin M-60 machine guns mounted under the wings.

The flying will include a combination of individual sequences and some formation flying mixed with interviews from the pilots. When the flying is complete our visitors are invited to check out the Engineering Hangar where demonstrations will be taking place. Currently the Spitfire Mk VIII is undergoing an annual inspection and you will see the aircraft with all its panels removed. The Spitfire will be up on jacks and the engineering team will show you how the landing gear retracts as they put it through several cycles using a hydraulic power supply.

ACROSS OZ
Two adventure motorbike riders are on the journey of a lifetime, crossing Australia from East to West before returning home via the southern coastline. Damian Milo and Bruce Potts, will be completing a passion that has been in the planning for years, inspired by other great adventure motorcycling tales from around the globe and their own deep driven instincts for adventure and living life to the full.In conjunction with Fountainhead Retreat and the Anti Depression Association of Australia, the riders are promoting the awareness of depressive related illnesses across the country in an effort to send out the message that there are indeed answers to control this debilitating illness and to offer direction for sufferers on where to seek help. Covering six weeks and some 12,000 kilometers, the journey is coming close to the end and it wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Temora Aviation Museum. This Saturday the team comes to the Museum and will spend some time sharing their experiences with our visitors before heading north towards home. www.acrossoz.net

NEW DATES RELEASED
May 7th 2011 Aircraft Showcase – Forward Air Control O-1, O-2, A-37B, Sabre
May 21st, 2011 Aircraft Showcase – Pacific Theatre Hudson, Spitfire, Wirraway
Jun 4th 2011 Aircraft Showcase Korea – Meteor, Sabre, Mustang
Jun 18th 2011 Aircraft Showcase – World War II Tiger Moth, Ryan, Spitfire, Harvard

And the date you have all been waiting for….

Temora Aviation Museum will be holding a Big Flying Event in 2011 on November 19th.

SPECIAL CHRISTMAS OFFER FOR ONLINE SHOP…
Christmas is just around the corner with just over a month before Santa packs the sleigh. The Museum Gift Shop is well stocked with everything the aviation enthusiast in your life could wish for. Visit the Gift Shop while you are here this weekend or click on the link below to take you to easy online shopping.

Visit our online shop to check out our great variety of DVDs, books, caps, clothing, and giftware. New items have been added which include travel mugs, cups, hip flasks, and more. There are only a few limited edition Sabre hats left, and they make the perfect gift.

We are offering a special Christmas promotion for all orders made between today and Christmas Day. If you spend $50 or more on merchandise from our online shop, we will give you a FREE ANNUAL PASS to the Temora Aviation Museum (including Showcase Days) valued at $50.

Check out the shop now!
http://www.aviationmuseum.com.au/shop/

The Temora Aviation Museum is proud be hosting the Temora Invitational Scale Classic 2010 on Saturday 6th November here at the Museum. The Scale Model competition will be incorporated into the Aircraft Showcase – Piston Fighters event we are scheduled to hold. This combined event will take place on Saturday the 6th November with the Scale Models also flying on Friday 5th and Sunday 7th.

When asked about the event, John Rolfe, organiser of the scale classic, had this to say: “Well once again the year has rolled around to one of the best Scale model competitions in Australia and to top this event off we have the Temora Aviation Museums Showcase on the Saturday. This year we have a few very interesting aircraft on display from WWI and WWII including multi engine aircraft and modern day military jets. There will be people on hand to explain to the visitors how these aircraft operate. Each flying routine will consist of 10 manoeuvres of the pilot’s choice and two compulsory ones. All aircraft will compete in four rounds over the three days of competition as well as static judging to see how close the aircraft detail is to a full sized version. With at least two aircraft in the air all the times it will be very exciting for those watching, visitors will also have the chance to get up close to the aircraft throughout the day.”

This weekend, you must come to Temora Aviation Museum to witness a full sized Spitfire, Kittyhawk and Wirraway along with dozens of meticulously built scale model aircraft in the air. So grab a chair and your sunscreen and come on out to the Temora Aviation Museum this weekend. Food and beverages will be available on all three days, with normal admission applying both Friday and Sunday and on Saturday Aircraft Showcase Day admission applies, see www.aviationmuseum.com.au

A couple of exciting additions have been incorporated into this Saturdays Aircraft Showcase – Korea. 2010 marks the 60th Anniversary of the Korean War and the RAAF Sabre and Meteor are being showcased along with the CAC Mustang from the RAAF Museum at Point Cook. The Mustang is a welcome addition to our popular Aircraft Showcase. This is the first time the RAAF Museum Mustang has been able to make the journey to Temora, so this is definitely an opportunity not to be missed. http://www.airforce.gov.au/raafmuseum/exhibitions/interactive/mustang.htm

With his aircraft fresh of the ship after finishing the Red Bull Air Race season, pilot Matt Hall will display his skills during the Aircraft Showcase this Saturday. Seeing Matt perform his tight turns, loops and rolls is something which must be seen to be believed. Matt is an experienced pilot and his logbook includes time in the F/A-18 Hornet as well as many Warbird and civilian types. When he last flew at the Museum it was in a WWII Mustang but this time he will amaze our visitors with an aerobatic routine in his Red Bull race machine. http://matthallracing.com/

Aircraft Showcase allows the you to get up close to the aircraft, talk with the pilots and gain a insight into how we keep these aircraft flying and what it is like to fly these old warbirds – which only a handful of pilots have the privilege to do.

One of the most popular aspects of Aircraft Showcase is the informative talks and demonstrations given by the Museum’s Engineering team. This Saturday, Engine builder David Finch will be on hand to demonstrate the operation of the Rolls Royce Derwent engine which powers the Gloster Meteor while Ben Muller will be helping you to understand the complex hydraulic system which is a critical part of the RAAF Sabre. Andrew Bishop with be available to answer any questions regarding the powerful V12 Merlin Engine and we will also have an assortment of instruments and gauges demonstrating their internal workings. The engineering tour takes place after the flying display with all engineers and pilots on hand to answer your questions.

We are also planning an informative discussion on ejection seat use and operation which will be presented by Alan Clements. Alan is a Group Captain in the RAAF and currently flys the Museum’s Meteor F.8. Assisting Alan with the discussion will be Sabre pilot Squadron Leader Paul Simmons. This will take place in the Display Hangar immediately following the morning movie.

Bomber Attack is the theme for Saturday’s Aircraft Showcase and leading the charge will be the Hudson Bomber piloted by a regular here at Temora, Doug Hamilton. Pete Pring-Shambler will be assisting Doug as co-pilot while they demonstrate the graceful manoeuvrers which this big bomber is renowned for. The T-28 Trojan will then perform before we close out the flying with an action packed display by President and Founder of the Temora Aviation Museum David Lowy in the Cessna A-37B Dragonfly. For those of you who have not witnessed this display, it is something which should not be missed. The Cessna A-37B Dragonfly is an all-metal, retractable gear, low wing twin turbojet powered aircraft and is one of the most powerful aircraft in the Museums collection when considering power to weight ratio. This aircraft weighs in at just 2,843 kg empty is capable of speeds of up to 778 km/h enabling David to demonstrate the aircraft in such a way that it is a must see for anyone with an interest in aviation. All three of the aircraft being flown during the Showcase are combat veterans with the Hudson serving during WWII and the T-28 and A-37 serving in Vietnam.

Ensure you arrive when the gates open at 10am to capture the entire experience of Aircraft Showcase which begins with the feature film of the day. This will be simulcast in the Display Hangar and Theatre. At the completion of the movie its time to find your place on the flight line as the pilots and engineers will commence the pre-flight checks; the pilot will also give you the closest experience possible of what is required in flight preparation. Each pilot will talk you through his pre-flight checks and highlight some of the intricacies involved with these warbirds.

In keeping with the Showcase theme, engineers Justin Anderson and Martin Lancaster will have on hand two cut-a-way engines. One example is the General Electric J85-17A axial flow turbojet which powers the Cessna A-37B Dragonfly. The other cut-a-way engine is similar to the one in the Hudson and shows the unique construction techniques which radial engines utilise. Visitors will be able to see the engines working and witness the internal working of a radial piston engine and an axial flow turbojet engine.

The weather forecast is for mild temperatures around 20 degrees. The Museum’s Mess Hall will have the BBQ running so you don’t have to worry about packing the picnic basket.

This weekend at Temora will be an extra busy Aircraft Showcase. In addition to the Museum’s Tiger Moth and Wirraway taking part in Aircraft Showcase, the Jet Flyers Association will be conducting their annual event with up to 75 radio controlled aircraft on display and taking to the skies to compete for their top awards across multiple categories. Friday is a practice day and the competition is in full swing on Saturday and Sunday with categories for speed, best scale model and best sports model providing motivation for these pilots. Model Jet action from previous years at Temora has included BAe Hawks, F-4 Phantom, Eurofighters, MiG 15s, F/A-18’s, F/A-15’s, F-86 Sabre, and a Vampire.

The Model aircraft will take a break on Saturday while the Museum’s Tiger Moth and Wirraway take center stage for Aircraft Showcase – Trainers. Pilots Lars Larson and Rod Luke will be displaying these historic aircraft and demonstrating some of the maneuvers that RAAF pilots learned at Temora and other training bases during World War II. Aircraft Showcase also includes a film which will be screened in the Display Hangar and Theatre and a tour of our Engineering Hangar.

The Museum will open at 10am and the Mess Hall will be open so there is no need to pack a picnic basket. The weather is forecast to be clear skies with cool temperatures which makes for perfect flying weather.

Five Museum aircraft are headed to Williamtown NSW to take part in the Australian Defence Force’s annual airshow this Saturday and Sunday. The Museum’s Spitfire Mk VIII, Gloster Meteor, Lockheed Hudson, Cessna O-2A and the RAAF Sabre are all departing Temora for Williamtown. If you are planning to attend the show, be sure to check for transportation information and parking instructions and make plans to come by and say hello to our team.

For a complete list of what is happening at Williamtown check out the RAAF’s website
http://www.airforce.gov.au/AirShows/

Vietnam is the theme for this Saturday’s Showcase – 21st August. The Forward Air Control Cessna O-2A will lead the way and mark the targets for Pilot Darren Crabb to attack in the fast and maneuverable Cessna A-37B Dragonfly performing maneuvers which are sure to amaze and entertain those present. The Royal Australian Navy Historic Flight are bringing their Huey Helicopter to support this day and those who have seen its display previously are well aware of the impressive capability of this versatile machine. To round out this already impressive line-up of aircraft is the RAAF Sabre, the most recent addition to the Museum’s collection of aircraft. Paul Simmons will be the pilot in the hot seat as he practices his flying display for the up coming RAAF Air Show in Williamtown next month. Come to Temora this Saturday not only to see this significant line-up of displaying aircraft but also the entire Museum collection, pilots and engineers.

The Museum will open its doors at 10am with a film about Forward Air Control commencing at 10.45am simulcast in both the Display Hangar and the Theatre. After the flying program, come into the Engineering Hangar to see what we are currently working on. Aircraft Engineer David Finch, the Museum’s jet engine expert, will be giving a presentation on the workings of the J-85, the A-37 Dragonfly jet engine. Visitors can also see the Hudson and Tiger Moth in the final stages of their annual inspections in the Engineering Hangar with engineers on hand to answer any questions.

Australia’s Favourite Event
The Temora Aviation Museum is proud to have been nominated for “Australia’s Favourite Event”. This is an award for all types of events including music festivals, sporting events, community events, cultural and commemorative events that are eligible to compete for public votes with the winner announced at the Australian Event Awards presentation in October. So if you have been to the Museum on either a flying or non flying day or you are yet to come but have heard good reports please visit http://austfavevent.shadedsolutions.com.au/cgi-bin/vote.cgi?eventcode=showcase and vote for the Museum as many times as you can and forward this link to everyone that can cast a vote.

Fathers Day Special
The 5th of September 2010 marks Fathers Day this year and for those of you who want to get a head start on finding that perfect gift for your special Dad – look no further than our online merchandise. We are offering a special bonus which will make your gift something Dad will remember for a lifetime.

The Temora Aviation Museum’s online shop has a range of aviation related merchandise including books, clothing, caps, gift items, DVDs, and Museum merchandise that you can purchase as a gift for your father.

Between today and September 4th 2009 spend $50 on ANYTHING in our online shop and we will give you a FREE ANNUAL PASS to the Temora Aviation Museum which is valued at $50. This pass not only enables you to visit the Museum whenever you like, but also allows you to attend all Aircraft Showcase Days for a year!
Just remember when completing your order to enter the name of the recipient of the annual pass in the comments section under ‘additional details’.

All orders are shipped within 24 hours of receiving them and online payments are secure.

CountryLink Inland Tourism Awards
The Temora Aviation Museum was firmly in the spotlight on Saturday night July 24th as the host venue for the annual Inland Tourism Awards encompassing the Regional Tourism Organisations of New England North West, Central NSW, Riverina Tourism and Outback Tourism. A total of 42 Finalists converged on the Museum for the 1940’s/WWII themed awards night with a majority of those attending making the effort to be dressed in period costume. Australia’s Red Bull Air Race Pilot Matt Hall was Master of Ceremonies for the night and he took the opportunity to share with the audience some of his Air Race and elite Fighter Combat (Top Gun) Instructor experiences. During the evening two lucky people were chosen as best dressed for the night and the next morning found themselves climbing into the Extra with Matt Hall for a thrilling aerobatics ride. As thrilled as the winners were on Saturday night it is certain they were happy to have completed the intense ride and be back on the ground come Sunday morning.

Adding to such a great atmosphere was the entertainment provided by the official RAAF Band “Force 10”, who provided music throughout the night encouraging guests to let down their hair, have a dance and enjoy the special feeling of being transported back in time more then 65 years.

The awards however did not escape the grasp of The Temora Aviation Museum as we were announced the winner in the Heritage and Cultural Tourism category, the achievement of three consecutive years winning this category will place the Museum in the Inland Tourism Hall of Fame. In addition to this, the Museum also received an Award of Distinction in the category of Tourist Attraction.

The Chief Executive of the Museum Kenny Love was quoted as saying, “the Temora Aviation Museum is proud of its achievements and to be given the opportunity of hosting the awards in conjunction with the Temora Shire Council, allowing us to showcase the Museum, Temora and the Riverina to so many people directly involved in tourism within NSW is a big achievement for us.”

Aircraft Showcase – World War II
The Museum’s focus is now firmly set on the preparation required for the upcoming Aircraft Showcase Day on the 7th of August. With the theme of World War II, visitors will step back in time and witness the Museum’s Tiger Moth, Ryan and Spitfire Mk VIII, also accompanied by Doug Hamilton’s “Harold” the Harvard. Aircraft Showcase is an excellent opportunity to see in detail our aviation history come alive.

Aircraft Showcase is off to a great start with visitors commenting positively on our new initiatives. Our visitors have enjoyed not having to rush to the flightline to stake out the best positions. They like having some time throughout the day to peruse the Museum displays and they love having access into the Engineering Hangar. If you are planning to stay in Temora this weekend and still need to book your accommodation, contact the Temora Visitor Information Centre for assistance on 02 6977 1511.

Fathers Day Special
The 5th of September 2010 marks Fathers Day this year and for those of you who want to get a head start on finding that perfect gift for your special Dad – look no further than our online merchandise. We are offering a special bonus which will make your gift something Dad will remember for a lifetime.

The Temora Aviation Museum’s online shop has a range of aviation related merchandise including books, clothing, caps, gift items, DVDs, and Museum merchandise that you can purchase as a gift for your father.

Between today and September 4th 2009 spend $50 on ANYTHING in our online shop and we will give you a FREE ANNUAL PASS to the Temora Aviation Museum which is valued at $50. This pass not only enables you to visit the Museum whenever you like, but also allows you to attend all Aircraft Showcase Days for a year!
Just remember when completing your order to enter the name of the recipient of the annual pass in the comments section under ‘additional details’.

All orders are shipped within 24 hours of receiving them and online payments are secure.

This Saturday, July 17th, Temora Aviation Museum will present Aircraft Showcase – Jet Fighters. The Engineering Team has been very busy completing the Annual Inspection on both the Meteor and RAAF Sabre. There is still some work to finish, however, this morning the Sabre ejection seat was refitted after its service and tomorrow both aircraft will have their engines test run. This weekend will be the first time the Sabre has flown since April and it is an event you certainly won’t want to miss. Paul Simmons will be flying the Sabre and admitted that he is really looking forward to taking it back into the air for our visitors to see. The Meteor and the Cessna A-37 Dragonfly are also on the program which will round out our Jet Fighters theme. In our Engineering Hangar, turbine engine specialist David Finch is planning to show you the inner workings of a jet engine and will be free to answer any questions that you might have.

The Museum opens at 10am and the activities kick off soon after with a film screened in the theatre and the Display Hangar. The Mess Hall will be open for food and drinks and CanAssist, which provides assistance to cancer patients and their families, will be operating the BBQ.

Saturday’s weather will be clear and cool with a top of 13 degrees so dress warmly and head for Temora. If you still need accommodation the Temora Visitor Information Center has advised that there are a few rooms available for this weekend and they will be happy to help you make a booking if you call them on 02 6977 1511.

The CountryLink Inland NSW Tourism Awards Dinner is fast approaching and in keeping with the 1940’s WWII theme we are excited to announce that the Royal Australian Air Force Band will be providing the evening’s entertainment. The Air Force Band represents a group of talented and versatile musicians that are often required to perform a wide variety of music in an even wider range of settings and locations. On many occasions the Band is asked to perform music of a strictly commercial nature. This will involve music from the Rock, Pop, Latin, Swing and Funk idioms. When such tasks arise the Air Force Band relies on their show band, FORCE 10. In this area, they are the subject matter experts, and the group purposely formed to respond to these tasks.

Force 10 is a fifteen piece ensemble, consisting of two vocalists, a five piece rhythm section and an eight piece horn section consisting of brass and woodwind. It is also a flexible ensemble, capable of performing as a quartet or quintet, depending on what best suites the task at hand.

Force 10 is an ensemble in great demand, having performed at many festivals and functions throughout Australia. They have played at the Hunter Valley’s Jazz in the Vines, the Merimbula, Devonport and Paynesville Jazz Festivals, and have been a featured artist at the Melbourne International Festival of Brass.

To purchase tickets to the CountryLink Inland NSW Tourism Awards click on the following link www.temora.com.au

Aircraft Showcase – Pacific Theatre wrap up

The Museum’s Aircraft Showcase kicked off on Saturday with great success. Although we did have very cool weather it didn’t deter our visitors who came from every Australian state and even international. They were treated to the Museum’s Wirraway flown by Lars Larson, Lockheed Hudson with Doug Hamilton and Gordon Glynn and the Mk VIII Spitfire with Doug Hamilton. Temora Historic Flight Club Pilot Lars Larson said “Flying the Wirraway on Saturday was great fun and the cool temperatures enabled the Pratt and Whitney radial to give me plenty of horsepower which made Spitfire pilot Doug Hamilton envious!

Our Engineering Team had the workshop set up for our visitors and they took time to show them the progress on the Meteor and Sabre annual inspections. The Meteor was stripped down with the engine cowlings removed and one of the main fuel tanks out for repair. The Sabre was still on jacks and our visitors were able to see first hand the unique undercarriage retraction sequence as the team ran several cycles using the Museum’s external hydraulic power cart. A Rolls Royce Merlin which was recently removed from our Mk VIII was on display and Chief Engineer Peter Pring-Shambler removed a rocker cover which offered folks a chance to see the cam shaft and rocker assembly on this intricate V-12 engine. Gordon Glynn brought his Cessna O-1 Birddog up close and answered questions about the aircrafts design and construction and the important role it has played since it went into military service.

Temora Aviation Museum’s first Aircraft Showcase is now a part of our history as we turn our attention towards July 17th and Aircraft Showcase – Jet Fighters where the Sabre and Meteor will take to the skies again following their extensive annual inspections joined by the Cessna A-37B Dragonfly.

Check out this Aircraft Showcase video link and we look forward to seeing you in Temora. http://www.aviationmuseum.com.au

Matt Hall to be MC

Temora Aviation Museum is excited to announce that Red Bull Air Race competitor and former RAAF Top Gun fighter pilot Matt Hall will be the Master of Ceremonies for the Inland NSW Tourism Awards held at the Museum on July 24th. The Awards function will be a gala event taking place in the Museum’s Display Hangar surrounded by the Museum’s collection of historic aircraft. Chief Executive Kenny Love said “we knew that hosting the Awards at the Museum would be an amazing experience but to have a top gun, combat decorated fighter pilot who is currently competing in the Red Bull Air Race World Championship – that just puts the icing on the cake. Matt is an incredible pilot and a great guy and he is planning to share some of his experiences with us on the night.”
Following in the footsteps of his grandfather who flew in World War II, Matt is a former Royal Australian Air Force Fighter Pilot, with over 1800 F/A-18 Hornet hours. He was an elite Fighter Combat (Top Gun) Instructor, and in 2006 completed a tour as the chief instructor for this demanding course. He has received many awards along the way, including Dux of Pilot, Hornet and Fighter Combat Instructor courses, the 1997 Fighter Pilot of the Year and was awarded a Chief of Air Force commendation for his performance as the Chief Instructor of the 2006 FCI course. He spent three years in the USA on a USAF exchange program, flying over 500 hours in the F-15E Strike Eagle, including combat. For his efforts, he was awarded combat decorations by both the US and Australia. Matt resigned from the RAAF in 2009 to allow him to become a full time Race Pilot.
When asked about the upcoming awards Matt said “One of my favourite places to visit is Temora where the people are always so welcoming and fun to be around. I am honoured to be able to be part of the Inland NSW Tourism awards at the Temora Aviation Museum, a place that I always enjoy visiting.”

Matt Hall is bringing his two seat aerobatic aircraft, the Giles 202, to the Inland NSW Tourism Awards. The Giles is an unlimited aerobatic aircraft in which Matt has completed his competition aerobatics and Red Bull Air Race training. Two lucky guests at the Tourism Awards will win the opportunity of a lifetime to go flying with Matt as he demonstrates the three dimensional world that he lives in.

Matt said “I am sure this is going to be a night not to be missed. I know I can’t wait to be involved.” Tickets to the awards night can be purchased at: http://www.temora.com.au/accom_result1/2010-inland-tourism-awards/

The Temora Aviation Museum is a hive of activity on the eve of the first official Aircraft Showcase Day. This new and exiting format will give visitors a unique and in-depth insight into the Museum’s collection of aircraft and the Engineering facility which has rarely been accessible by visitors. Tomorrow those in attendance will experience Aircraft Showcase – Pacific Fighters which involves flights by the Hudson, Wirraway and Spitfire Mk VIII. Come and see them perform in the air and have the opportunity to interact with the pilot as he performs his pre-flight checks and chats with visitors after the flight. Doug Hamilton who will be at the controls of the Hudson and the Spitfire commented “I am excited and feel privileged to be flying in the first Aircraft Showcase held at the Temora Aviation Museum. This is a very different format from the Museum’s previous flying weekends but I believe that visitors will enjoy a more in-depth experience.”

At the completion of the flying program the Engineers will be on-hand in the Engineering Hangar to talk to you about their side of the operations at the Museum and what it takes to keep these Warbirds in the air and in mint condition. They will be demonstrating gear retraction testing on the RAAF Sabre, an informative presentation about ejection seats and the delicate procedures involved in their handling and informative discussions about the famous Merlin engine which powers the Museum’s Spitfire.

Hot and cold food is available at the Museum along with our regular barista providing hot beverages; the kids will be catered for with a colouring-in and paper aeroplane making area set up in the Display Hangar. So there will be plenty to see and do at the Temora Aviation Museum and for a sneak peak at how the Aircraft Showcase Day will look visit our website at http://www.aviationmuseum.com.au and click on the Showcase play button.

We want everyone to have the opportunity to see their favourite aircraft fly so to help you plan which day to attend, we have listed the aircraft we plan to fly at each of the Aircraft Showcase days for this year. These can be found at: http://www.aviationmuseum.com.au/news/FlyingDates.cfm

Aircraft Showcase – Pacific Theatre
The inaugural Aircraft Showcase is taking off at Temora Aviation Museum on July 3rd with preparation and planning in its final stages. Come and explore the Museum, scrutinize the aircraft preparation, observe the flying, inspect the engineering facility and interrogate the pilots. Gates open at 10am and the activities are planned to keep you captivated for the entire day. The aircraft that will be flying are the Spitfire, Hudson and Wirraway and food will be available for purchase. Tickets can be purchased online or are available at the gate.

Wheelies with Wings Presentation
The Temora Aviation Museum was pleased to host the presentation of certificates to the latest graduates from the Wheelies with Wings flying familarisation course in front of a large group of enthusiastic visitors. The Museum’s Canberra and Dragonfly aircraft made the perfect backdrop for this significant presentation. Temora Mayor Peter Speirs, and Museum President and Founder David Lowy presented the certificates recognising the graduate’s achievements and commented positively on the work of Wheelies with Wings. The latest graduates were Eddie Laycock, Nick Campbell and Christopher Tia. Nick, accompanied by his father Ian, drove from Perth to participate in 2 weeks of flying activity. They all said that the flying they experienced had added a new dimension to their lives.
Wheelies with Wings is a not for profit organisation whose purpose is to provide people with a physical disability the opportunity to experience freedom and achievement through flight. Wheelies with Wings are hoping to expand upon its current familarisation program by offering selected students the opportunity to achieve solo pilot status. Your donations can help them to enable these pilots achieve this much sought after goal.

ABC Talking Heads
At 6:30 pm on June 28th the ABC Television program Talking Heads will be presenting a story that we are sure will be of interest to everyone.
The story of Squadron Leader Tony Gaze OAM DFC*** Australian Spitfire Ace & Grand Prix Racing Car Driver. It reads like one of those ‘Boy’s Own’ adventure stories of days gone by, but the story of this remarkable Australian is fact, not fiction. Tony Gaze has a litany of incredible achievements to his credit resulting from his two careers: as a fighter pilot with the Royal Air Force during World War II and as a racing driver afterwards. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross three times, was the first Australian to fly jet aircraft operationally and after the war became Australia’s Formula One driver. This Talking Heads segment was filmed at historic RAAF Museum – Point Cook, Vic with the Temora Aviation Museum’s Mk VIII Spitfire as a backdrop. Australian author Stewart Wilson recently assisted Tony by publishing his exciting stories in a beautiful hardcover book.