Aircraft Showcase
After arriving home from the Australian International Airshow in Victoria, all of us here at the Museum have turned our focus to our Aircraft Showcase program coming up this weekend which will feature the Spitfire and the Museum’s trainers, Ryan and Tiger Moth.

The current high pressure system over this region has been producing some glorious weather and this Saturday will be no exception. It is sure to be a perfect day for flying in these open cockpit trainers and the Supermarine Spitfire.
Gates open at 10am.

 Avalon
The Temora Aviation Museum would like to thank everyone involved in ensuring a successful campaign for the Australian International Airshow 2013. The Museum’s Meteor, Hudson, Spitfire Mk VIII, Boomerang and the RAAF Sabre all took part in this extraordinary bi-annual airshow which was held on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd of March attracting over 180,000 visitors.

Our Warbirds were a popular attraction both on the ground and in the air as they performed some of the most incredible formation flying ever seen in this country. Avalon 2013 provided a great opportunity for the Museum to showcase the historically significant collection of aircraft as well as promoting to aviation enthusiasts the benefits of a visit to the Museum.

If you were at the Airshow and visited our promotions trailer, you may have been lucky enough to enter your name in the draw for free tickets to the Warbirds Downunder 2013 which is to be held on the 2nd November here at Temora. The winners of these general admission tickets were Michael Basins, Jayden Boyde, Tony Brook, Andrew Bevan, Reg Hough, Frank Robinson, Kevin Schramm, Mike Schaffer, Mark Tyzzer and Jesse Oweng. Congratulations to you all. We will be in contact with you soon with all of the details and we look forward to seeing you on 2nd November.

Warbirds Downunder 2013
Now is the time to mark the 2nd November in your calendar and plan your trip for Warbirds Downunder 2013. Plans are well underway for an action packed flying program as well as displays on the ground. It is hoped the flying program will be even bigger than 2011 when over 50 sorties were flown during this single day airshow.

Squadron Tent City
Accommodation in Temora during Airshows can be difficult to get – so this year we are trialling another option for those who would like to stay at the airfield and avoid the traffic when arriving and leaving the Airshow on the day.

New in 2013, the Squadron Tent Barracks is a temporary on-site accommodation facility consisting of cabin style tents tall enough to stand up in. Each tent will be set up before you arrive and feature an awning, internal lighting, carpet on the floor, camp style beds and roll up screened windows – all you need to bring is your linen (sleeping bag and pillow), towels, camping chairs and personal items!

The beds are camp style stretcher beds that come complete with a mattress which will ensure both a good night’s rest, and adequate storage room under your bed for your camping essentials. For more details and bookings **Click Here**

Upcoming Dates

Have you ever dreamt of being in an aerial dog fight, piloting a P-40 and shooting down other aircraft or being shot at? This weekend you will have the opportunity to be get up close and personnel with three of TAM’s infamous fighter aircraft, as they take to the sky you can get a feel for what it might have been like. See our Spitfire MK XVI, CAC Boomerang and RAAF CAC Sabre in full flight this this Saturday (March 17th) from 10am. Making a special guest appearance will be Allan Arthurs P-40, a ferocious fighter!

The Boomerang was Australia’s answer to a desperate need for fighter aircraft during WWII and in a hurry, going from drawing board to full flight in just over 16 weeks. Despite it’s short gestation period it served us well. The Boomerang was flown by R.A.A.F. Squadron’s No’s  4, 5, 83 and 85 defending the mainland, undertaking escort duties for shipping convoys and air to air operations against the Japanese. The Boomerang still remains the only fully Australian designed and built fighter aircraft to see ever production. 

The infamous Spitfire was made famous through its involvement in the Battle of Britain and has become synonymous as the aircraft of WWII. See our Mk XVI in action and hear the story of it’s armed reconnaissance mission in the Utrecht/Hague/Leiden area during WWII. Painted in the markings that it wore when flown with RAAF 453 Squadron, this combat veteran is well known to enthusiasts around the world  having spent many years in New Zealand as part of Sir Tim Wallis’ Alpine Fighter Collection before coming to Temora Aviation Museum (TAM).

Jump ahead almost 20 years and allow yourself to soar as you hear the Sabre’s magnificent Rolls-Royce/CAC RA.7 Avon Mk.26 axial flow turbojet engine start up. TAM’s RAAF Sabre saw service with the RAAF on the Australian mainland and then later with the Royal Malaysian Air Force.

Allan Arthur is bringing his P-40 Kittyhawk to the Museum to complement the Aircraft Showcase – Fighter theme. Built in 1943 his P-40N1 Kittyhawk is powered by an Allison 1710 V-12 engine which is rated at 1400 horsepower. The aircraft was retrieved as a wreck from a fire dump in New Zealand before being completely restored and painted to represent GAQ from RAF 112 Shark Squadron which fought in the Middle East against Rommel before moving on to Sicily and Italy. Allan spent more then six years rebuilding the aircraft and since returning it to the skies he has flown it more then 140 hours enabling thousands of people to see this magnificent machine!

Beat the Mothers Day Rush!

With Mothers Day just around the corner why not pop into our Gift Shop whilst at our showcase this Saturday. We have a lovely range of gifts for our Aviation loving mums. Perhaps she would enjoy 14k gold Airplane post earings, always a conversation starter, or glam up shower time with a pink camouflage showercap!
For those who are unable to make it here befor Mothers Day you are still able to purchase from our wide range of merchandise. Just CLICK HERE to head to our online shop more inspiration!

Upcoming Showcase Dates

Aircraft Showcase including Scale Models

TheTemoraAviationMuseumis proud to be hosting the Temora Invitational Scale Classic 2010 on Saturday 5th November here at the Museum. The Scale Model competition will be incorporated into the Aircraft Showcase – Scale Model event we are scheduled to hold. This combined event will take place on Saturday the 5th November with the Scale Models also flying on Friday 4th and Sunday 6th.

There will be a few very interesting model aircraft on display from WWI and WWII including multi-engine aircraft and modern day military jets. 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 Saturday, you must come to Temora Aviation Museum to witness a full sized Tiger Moth, Hudson, Boomerang and Sabre along with dozens of meticulously built scale model aircraft in the air. So grab a chair and your sunscreen and come on out to theTemoraAviationMuseum 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.

The Inaugural Warbirds Downunder Countdown Has Begun

The Temora Aviation Museum is now able to confirm that Australia’s frontline fighter, the F/A-18 Hornet, will fly as part of the Warbirds Downunder Airshow at Temora Aviation Museum on November 19^th, 2011.

 The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) will fly an F/A-18 Hornet fighter aircraft toTemoraAviationMuseumto take part in the Warbirds Downunder Airshow. The F/A-18 Hornet is a multi-role fighter designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. It is capable of air interception, air combat, close air support of ground troops, and interdiction of enemy supply lines including shipping. The Hornet was developed for the US Navy and Marine Corps and has been a very successful aircraft for the RAAF and many other Air Forces includingCanada,Finland,Kuwait,Malaysia,SpainandSwitzerland.

The Hornet is powered by two turbofan engines which provide 7,258kgs of thrust each. The aircraft has a top speed of Mach 1.8 (2,200km/h), a maximum all up weight of 20,412kg and boasts a combat radius of 740kms.

The Warbirds Downunder Airshow will take place on November 19^th, 2011 and will feature theTemoraAviationMuseum’s aircraft collection including the Spitfires,Hudson, Meteor and RAAF Sabre plus a number of visiting antique and warbird aircraft including a Mustang, Harvards, and the Connie. The RAAF Roulettes are also attending and will fly their six ship formation aerobatic routine. TheTemoraAviationMuseum aims to provide the complete airshow experience for all spectators with plenty of activities on the ground to entertain all ages from jumping castles for the children through to classic, vintage car and ex-military vehicle displays for those bigger kids. The RAAF Hot Air Balloon will be providing free tethered rides (weather permitting) for those who arrive early enough and Defence Force Recruiting will be on site to provide information for anyone interested in joining the Australian Defence Force. In addition to all of this the popular Kapooka Army Band will be providing entertainment throughout the morning.

Warbirds Dowunder will be a fantastic event with hot and cold food and beverages available and many activities to keep everyone entertained.  To avoid the queues on the day, now is the time to purchase your tickets at http://www.aviationmuseum.com.au/  Gates will open at 8.30am and the flying displays will commence at 11am.

 Unique Travel Options for Warbirds Downunder 2011

If you are looking for a unique way to get to the Warbirds Downunder Airshow, how about taking the train. The Lachlan Valley Railway are bringing one of their historic trains from Wagga Wagga to Temora. This historic train trip is able to pick up passengers in Junee, Cootamundra and Stockinbingal. For more information visit http://www.lvr.com.au/.

Aircraft Showcase – CAC

Win a ride in the Ryan

Saturday September 3rd will be a great day to be here at the TemoraAviationMuseum. With Father’s Day the following day, Temora Aviation Museum is offering all fathers that visit the Museum for Aircraft Showcase, a chance to receive an early Father’s Day present.

One lucky dad, who attends the Museum on September 3rd, will win a ride in the beautiful Ryan STM s2 after the flying program finishes. When they arrive at the Museum all dad’s will receive a ticket and the winner will be drawn at the end of the flying program. The special dad will then be able to suit up for what will be a spectacular 15 minute spring time flight over Temora and surrounding areas. The father taking the ride must be over 18yrs of age and sign a waiver.

Aircraft Showcase – Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation

Aircraft Showcase – Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation will take to the skies above Temora on Saturday September 3rd. The Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation was an Australian aircraft manufacturer during Word War II and the post war era. The company began as a private corporation founded by Lawrence Wackett who had been a Captain with the Australian Flying Corps and known for his engineering ingenuity. After World War I, Wackett had begun manufacturing and designing Civil Aircraft.

In the 1930′s CAC took up the license for the North American NA-16 which ultimately became the CAC Wirraway. CAC designed the Wackett and then the Boomerang fighter which was the only indigenous designed and built aircraft to see combat in WWII. The factory had a good working relationship with North American and also produced the Mustang in later years.

During WWII CAC produced two interesting prototypes which unfortunately never made it into production. The Woomera which was a three seater medium bomber that had remotely operated turrets in the rear engine nacelles and an interceptor, the CA-15 or Kangaroo, a 721 km/h fighter with a range of 4000 km’s. After the war CAC produced the CA-25 Winjeel and the CA-27 Sabre.

To celebrate and remember the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation’s contribution toAustralia’s Military Aviation we will be flying the CA-16 Wirraway,  CA-13 Boomerang and the RAAF CA-27 Sabre. Some visiting aircraft will also be joining us for the day including some CA-25 Winjeel’s. 

Fathers Day Special

The 4th of September 2011 marks Fathers Day this year and for those of you who want to find that perfect gift for your special Dad – look no further than our online merchandise. 

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 dad.

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

Name Our Newsletter Competition

Thank you to the hundreds of you who have sent in an entry for the Name our Newsletter competition. Entries are now closed and our judges are busy sifting through the many creative suggestions you have given us. Stay tuned to future newsletters for the announcement of the new name and also the name of the lucky person who will be going for a ride in our Tiger Moth.

Warbirds Downunder 2011

Don’t forget the upcoming Warbirds Downunder Airshow which will be held at the Museum on Saturday November 19th, 2011. 

There will be plenty of aerial action for you to enjoy with most of the Museum’s aircraft collection taking to the skies as well as plenty of visiting aircraft including the RAAF Roulettes, RAAF Hot Air Balloon, Allan Arthurs P-40 Kittyhawk, RAAF Museum CAC Mustang, Southern Knights Aerobatic Team. Aircraft from Judy Pay’s collection and may more of our friends. The visiting aircraft which have confirmed have been listed on our website – but we are still working on others. As they confirm we will add them to the website also.

Apart from the flying program there will be other exhibits for you to see and enjoy. The children will be occupied with Kids Korner, Jumping Castles and other activities. A wide variety of food vendors will be here on the day to ensure you are provided with a vast food selection and if you are a classic / vintage car and military vehicle fan, you can enjoy perusing the many vehicles on display for the event.

For the first time we are selling two types of tickets. General admission tickets as well as Gold pass tickets. For details on the inclusions associated with both, take a look at our website. We want to encourage everyone to purchase their tickets online well before the event so you can avoid the queues on the day. Remember, Gold Passes are limited and will not be available at the gate!

UPDATE: Gold Passes are selling fast and are limited. Get yours today to avoid the disappointment of missing out.

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.

Temora will escape the wet weather that has settled on coastal parts of NSW this weekend, which means, Temora is THE place to be part of the action and excitement as Warbird aircraft take to the skies for the October 24th and 25th Flying Days. The RAAF Sabre will be flying, providing you with a great opportunity to witness the joint achievements of the Temora Aviation Museum and the RAAF in completing the restoration of the RAAF CA-27 Sabre. It is the perfect time to pack up the car, grab a hat and sunscreen for the family and make tracks to Temora. Check out the following link http://www.weather.com.au/nsw/temora for a full comprehensive weather forecast for this weekend. Temora Fire Brigade Captain Greg Matthews and his Team will be cooking in the Museum’s Mess Hall so there is no need to pack the picnic basket. All the profits from the Mess Hall are donated to local charities.

A spectacular lineup is planned for this weekend, including visiting aircraft such as the Mustang, a second Boomerang, an Auster, and T-28 Trojan. The flying program which is planned for your enjoyment includes:

SATURDAY
Tiger Moth, Ryan, Auster, Wirraway, Harvards, Spitfires (Mk VIII & Mk XVI), Cessna O-1, Cessna O-2A, Dragonfly, Boomerangs, Vampire, Meteor, Canberra, Sabre, Mustang.

SUNDAY
Harvards, Tiger Moth, Auster, Mustang, Spitfire Mk VIII, Boomerang, Cessna O-1, Trojan, Dragonfly, Vampire, Canberra, Meteor, Hudson, Boomerang, Sabre.

See Red Bull Air Race World Series third place winner, Matt Hall, who will be flying his WWII era Mustang. Also don’t miss the RAAF Sabre, which is scheduled to be flown both Saturday and Sunday by Temora Historic Flight Club pilot Darren Crabb, and RAAF Squadron Leader Paul Simmons. This is the best time of year for flying activity as the temperatures are mild and the bright blue skies make perfect conditions for taking excellent photos of the aircraft.

It will be a great weekend! We will see you here!

SABRE – HORNET FLYING WEEKEND

The public debut of the RAAF Sabre fighter jet will take place this weekend at Temora Aviation Museum and to mark this historic occasion two RAAF F/A-18 Hornet fighters will join the flying displays.

The RAAF Sabre, which carries the markings of RAAF 75 Squadron, has been undergoing restoration at the Museum for more than three years and is now complete. This Sabre, A94-983, was originally built in 1957 and has a distinguished service history with both the Royal Australian Air Force and the Royal Malaysian Air Force.

The Royal Australian Air Force F/A-18 Hornet is a multi-role fighter designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. It is capable of air interception, air combat, close air support of ground troops, and interdiction of enemy supply lines including shipping. One aircraft will be in RAAF 75 Squadron markings and will take to the skies and demonstrate its operational capability by conducting a low level, high energy aerobatic display. The second Hornet will be placed in the Aircraft Display Hangar so that our visitors can get up close to this magnificent, frontline strike fighter.

In addition to the Hornet and Sabre this Museum Flying Weekend will offer a unique opportunity for visitors to observe the Museum’s collection of historic airworthy aircraft take to the skies. The Museum anticipates a huge weekend with the inclusion of a Cessna Birddog, Harvard and a P-40 Kittyhawk. Visitors can also expect to see the Museum collection airborne including the Spitfire, Tiger Moth, Ryan, Wirraway, Boomerang, Canberra, Vampire, Meteor and Dragonfly.

This weekend is going to be a spectacular event that will entertain visitors of all ages. Come along and bring the family to Temora Aviation Museum’s special flying weekend on the 5th and 6th of September 2009. The Museum will be open from 10.00 am, flying begins at 11.00 am. Don’t forget that it is Fathers Day this weekend and the Museum is a perfect place to bring your Dad.

REPATRIATION RAMP CEREMONY

The lives of Australia’s last two servicemen missing in action from the Vietnam War were celebrated with a ramp ceremony at Richmond Air Force Base on Monday 31st August attended by family members and former comrades. Flying Officer Michael Herbert and Pilot Officer Robert Carver were lost during a mission in their Canberra bomber on the 3rd November 1970. Their remains were found near Vietnam’s border with Laos last month.

The Temora Aviation Museum was honoured to take our Canberra bomber to Richmond for the ceremony. The Canberra provided a fitting tribute to the two airmen and an impressive backdrop to the entire ceremony. Museum Founder & President David Lowy AM, Chief Executive Kenny Love, Chief Engineer Peter Pring-Shambler and Temora Historic Flight Club pilot Rod Luke all attended the ceremony representing the Museum.

Father’s Day is fast approaching – the 6th of September in fact! It falls on the Sunday of our Flying Weekend! Bring your dad along for an exciting day out to watch our spectacular rare, ex-military aircraft come to life as they perform brilliant flying and handling displays for our visitors. It will be a special time for your dad, as he will witness the first public flight of the newly restored RAAF Sabre in 16 years!

Along with this, the Museum is very excited once again to host the visit of two RAAF Hornets! They are amazing tactical fighter aircraft, which feature technical capabilities such as a look-down radar with shoot-down capability, as well as an inertial navigation system and head-up display. Powered by two 7258kg (16,000lb) thrust General Electric F404 Turbo fan engines the Hornet can reach amazing speeds of 1915 km/hr and boast a combat range of 740kms! One F/A-18 Hornet will be on static display in the hangar, with a flight of stairs up to the cockpit so all visitors to can get a closer look. Don’t miss them!

ABC TV NEWS STORY

ABC TV veteran Journalist, Paul Lockyer visited the Museum to record a news story on the RAAF Sabre returning to the skies and RAAF Squadron Leader Paul Simmons completing his Sabre endorsement.

We have been advised by ABC that the news segment will go to air this weekend on ABC News.

Click on the link to view some photos of Paul Lockyer and the ABC team during their visit to Temora.

http://www.aviationmuseum.com.au/news/PictureGallery2009.cfm

FATHERS DAY GIFTS AND FREE ANNUAL PASS

Due to the success of our Fathers Day Special we have decided to offer that if you spend $50 on ANYTHING in the online shop between now and September 6th, and you will get 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 attend all Flying Weekends for a year! We have many items available on the online shop, including popular items such as books, caps, DVDs, and clothing. So have a look online today! http://www.aviationmuseum.com.au/shop/

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.

RAAF SABRE

Last week the Temora Aviation Museum was a hive of activity as it edged closer to completing the pilot endorsement flights on the RAAF Sabre A94-983. The completion of these flights will allow the Sabre to perform its first public flight in over 16 years in the skies over Temora Aviation Museum on the 5th and 6th of September. A total of ten flights have now been successfully completed accrediting five flights each to Darren Crabb, Temora Historic Flight Club Director of Flying Operations and Paul Simmons, RAAF Squadron Leader.

Darren “Buster” Crabb had the honour of piloting the Sabre through his first practice display routine, and for those who were privileged enough to witness this it was certainly a sight to behold. With a little more time in the cockpit from both Darren and Paul, you can guarantee a memorable display is assured for visitors to the Museum on September 5th and 6th.

Upon concluding last week’s flying operations, Paul Simmons was elated to have completed his 5th flight and commented about the highly anticipated flight in September, “As a current serving member of the Australian Defence Force it is an honour and privilege to be able to demonstrate such a historically significant military aircraft. The displays will allow veterans and families, who have had an association with the Sabre, the opportunity to relive fantastic memories and, for those who have not seen the aircraft, to experience it in its natural element”. He went on to say,” It is also my desire that this fighter aircraft will inspire the next generation with a desire to serve their country and give a renewed appreciation for those veterans that have served their country in times passed”.

RAAF F/A-18 HORNETS

The Temora Aviation Museum is excited, and pleased to officially announce, that two RAAF F/A-18 Hornets will be participating in our flying program on September 5th and 6th; one Hornet will remain on static display inside the Display Hangar while the other will be flying on both Saturday and Sunday. Visitors will be able to witness a formation flight of the Sabre and Hornet which has not been seen in Australia for over sixteen years, and of course the F/A-18 Hornet will exhibit its capabilities with a spectacular individual demonstration which must be seen to be believed.

PRE-PURCHASE TICKETS

If you are planning to be a part of this momentous Flying Weekend, avoid delays through the admission booths by pre-purchasing your tickets online. This can be done simply by following the links on our website

Flying day prices are as follows:
ONE DAY PASS:
Adult: $20.00
Adult over 65 years: $15.00
Child 3-18 years: $7.50
Group Discount Available for 20 people or more, however the group must be booked in prior to the event and pay admissions as a group, not individually.

TWO DAY PASS:
Adult: $35.00
Adult over 65 years: $25.00
Child 3-18 years: $10.00

Two Day Passes are only valid on Flying Days and must be used on two consecutive days. No Group Discounts available on two day passes.

FATHERS DAY GIFTS AND FREE BONUS
As Fathers Days is on Sunday 6th September we have introduced a special offer which will make it a Father’s Day to remember, so if you were thinking about attending our September flying weekend and are yet to purchase that Father’s Day gift you have been searching for, this incredible offer must be taken advantage of.

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. Our Spitfire Mk VIII cap featuring shark’s teeth have been very popular as has our Temora Aviation Museum Warbirds DVD.

Between today and September 6th 2009 if you purchase one of our Spitfire Mk XVI t-shirts in any size AND a Mk VIII Spitfire stubby cooler, you will receive a FREE ANNUAL PASS to the Museum valued at $50.

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.

Have a look at the Temora Aviation Museum online shop. We have that special gift you are looking for this Father’s Day and with the FREE ANNUAL PASS to the Museum valued at $50 for your father. What are you waiting for!

The newly restored RAAF Sabre will take to the air for Museum visitors at the September 5th & 6th Flying Weekend; make sure you don’t miss this historic event! The RAAF’s Sabre A94-983, which was originally built in Australia in 1957, has been undergoing an extensive restoration over the past three years at the Temora Aviation Museum. The restoration for this aircraft began a short time after an Agreement was signed between the Royal Australian Air Force and the Temora Aviation Museum on 26 November 2005. The Agreement enabled the aircraft to be loaned to the Museum, so that it could be restored back to its former glory, to regularly take part in Museum Flying Days and selected Defence Force airshows.

In recent weeks the restoration process has finally been completed, with the first check flight of the RAAF Sabre having taken place on 16 July 2009 with Darren “Buster” Crabb in the cockpit. The public has not heard the Sabre’s magnificent roar in 16 years and we have a very special weekend planned, so mark your calendars for the Museum’s September 5th & 6th Flying Weekend. Keep watching our website for exciting Flying Weekend updates.

Sabres were one of the most successful fighter aircraft ever built. Worldwide nearly 10,000 were produced, including the Australian variant the CA-27, built by the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation in the late 1950s. Today there are less than ten airworthy Sabres remaining around the world, with Temora home to the only Australian built, Rolls Royce Avon powered Sabre.

Temora Historic Flight Club Director of Flying Operations Darren Crabb, remarks on his first Sabre experience, “It was an exciting honour for me to be the first to fly the Sabre, returning her to Australian skies. She’s a fantastic aircraft that performed flawlessly, which is a testament to the thorough effort that the Temora Aviation Museum Engineering Staff put into her restoration. It was a wonderful feeling to raise the landing gear and flaps after lift off and feel the acceleration of the Avon engine. The hydraulically assisted flight controls were light to the touch, making the Sabre very agile through all phases of flight. Squadron Leader Paul Simmons and I are looking forward to demonstrating this beautiful and historically significant aircraft to the public, commencing September 2009.”

As you start planning for the next Flying Weekend in September, remember that you can now pre-purchase your entry ticket online which will get you into the Museum much quicker. Visit our website for more information on our ticketing system.

For those that used our online pre-purchased tickets for the first time – drop us a note to give us some feedback about your experience.

The next Flying Weekend on 5th & 6th of September 2009 is fast approaching, so make sure you get in now to book your accommodation! There are thousands of accommodation rooms within a one hour drive of the Museum and our website has a list which includes motels, hotels, cabins, caravan parks, and B & Bs.

The Temora Shire Council also organises Home Stays which will give you the opportunity to stay with a Temora family. This can be arranged by Ann Pike at the Temora Visitor Information Centre by phoning: 02 6977 1511.

One of the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) most significant fighter jets, the CA-27 Sabre, made its first flight in 16 years today at the Temora Aviation Museum in regional NSW, after a period of more than three years’ restoration and servicing.

The aircraft was loaned to the Museum by the RAAF under an agreement made in 2005 by the Chief of Air Force in an effort to preserve historical military aircraft. The Sabre jet has been restored to flying condition by the Temora Aviation Museum Engineering team and will become a feature of the Museum’s regular Flying Weekends, which are open to the public, as well as select Australian Defence Force Airshows. Sabre A94-983 is owned by the RAAF Museum, loaned to the Temora Aviation Museum and operated by the Temora Historic Flight Club.

Museum Founder and President David Lowy AM said “This is an historic day and I’m extremely proud the Temora Aviation Museum has been able to partner with the RAAF in returning their Sabre to the skies.”

Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Mark Binskin AM said “This first flight of the Sabre aircraft marks a great day for Air Force by vividly reminding us where we have come from. It is a fantastic result for all involved and I would like to acknowledge the work of the entire team, including the strong partnership between Air Force and the Temora Aviation Museum, in achieving this milestone.”

David Gardner OAM, Director RAAF Museum said, “It was tremendous to see the Sabre take to the sky again. Temora Aviation Museum is to be congratulated on the huge professional effort they put into returning the aircraft to airworthiness status. This event is great for Australian Aviation Heritage and the RAAF.”

Temora Aviation Museum Engineering, Chief Engineer, Peter Pring-Shambler says “Our engineering team has done a great job over the past three years and I am very proud of what we have achieved today.”

The pilot of today’s post maintenance check flight was Darren Crabb. As an ex RAAF Qualified Flight Instructor, Darren flew F/A-18 Hornets and Macchi jets. He is a current corporate jet pilot and is type rated on 14 jet aircraft types. His flying experience includes the Cessna Dragonfly, Vampire, Meteor and Canberra vintage jet aircraft and he has a total of 5200 hours of flying time in jet aircraft. After the flight Darren Crabb said ”It was fantastic! The aircraft performed flawlessly and it was both a pleasure and a privilege for me to return the Sabre to the Australian skies.”

The Australian public will have its first chance to see the Sabre at the Temora Aviation Museum Flying Weekend on September 5th & 6th, 2009.

Video clips and photos of the Sabre have been uploaded to the photo gallery page. Click on ‘News and Calendar of Events’ and follow the links.

The RAAF Sabre is one step closer to going flying after completing high speed taxi trials on Monday afternoon. The Museum’s engineering team spent the day working through final inspections and preparing the aircraft for the runs. The main focus was to check aircraft handling at speed and to bed in the newly overhauled brakes.

Former RAAF Sabre pilot Group Captain Mike Nixon was at the controls and later commented, “the ground handling was a treat and all onboard systems functioned as well as new, at least as seen from the cockpit. Everything works as it should and all the numbers are in the zone.”

Mike was the last pilot to fly this aircraft 16 years ago, and when asked if he was tempted to go flying he said, “it took a great effort on my part to pull the throttle back and pop the speedbrakes at the end of the high-speed run, as the Sabre seemed eager to leap into the air. I’m sure the new pilots are going to fall in love with this magnificent old lady of the skies.”

Museum aircraft engineer Ben Muller has been involved with the Sabre project over the last three years and said, “watching it scream down the runway for the first time was a combination of excitement and nervousness. I can’t wait to see it go flying.”

Stay tuned as we keep you updated as the Sabre progresses towards its first flight.

Three video clips of the RAAF Sabre’s taxi trials have been uploaded onto our website.

The Temora Aviation Museum October Flying Weekend was a great success. A large crowd came along on the 11th and 12th to watch the numerous flying displays in the brilliant spring weather. Clear sunny skies dominated both days to provide a fantastic blue backdrop for all the flying displays on show.

The Temora Historic Flight Club (THFC) team conducted aircraft aerobatic and handling displays over the two days. Many ex-military aircraft demonstrated their unique features, including displays by the Museum’s Tiger Moth, Ryan, Wirraway, Boomerang, Spitfire Mk VIII, Spitfire Mk XVI, Vampire, Meteor, Canberra, Dragonfly, Cessna O-2, and Hudson. Three visiting aircraft also participated in the program. Museum volunteer Al Harding brought his Auster along for the first time, while THFC pilots David Salter and Gordon Glynn brought their North American Harvard and Cessna O-1 Birddog to perform for the crowd.

The next Temora Aviation Museum Flying Weekend falls on the 15th and 16th of November, and will be the final show for 2008. It is anticipated that this will be a huge show and one not to be missed.

ENGINE TEST TRAILER

The Temora Aviation Museum Engineers have been building a mobile engine test trailer used for testing turbine engines. This is a safe way to measure the engine’s performance and reliability prior to its use in the aircraft. Many engine overhaul facilities use engine test stands, but the Museum went one step further by making it mobile, like a trailer, so that it could be moved easily.

The mobile test stand will be used to test the Avon engine that will be fitted into the Sabre, however the trailer has been designed to be multi-functional, so that other engines can be tested in the future.

RAAF SABRE UPDATE

There has been plenty of progress made on the RAAF Sabre in recent weeks. Aircraft engineers Ben Muller and Marty Lancaster have recently completed the landing gear system installation, and have put it through a rigorous testing program to ensure it is working correctly. While the Sabre is on jacks for retraction system testing, emergency extension tests are also being conducted. The Engineers are proud to note that it is all working great so far, but further tests will be conducted to ensure that this success continues.

Normal and alternate flight control hydraulic systems have been operated and are also currently being adjusted. The horizontal stabiliser, found on the Sabre’s tail, has also been fitted, with the Engineers now focusing on the fitment and testing of the speed brake system. Fitting of the flight controls, such as the ailerons and elevators has been carried out. The ailerons are attached to the wings, and the elevators have been attached to the horizonal stabiliser. Once all is complete in this area, extensive system testing will be carried out putting us one step closer to returning this special aircraft to the skies.

APRIL 2009 FLYING WEEKEND DATE CHANGE

Unfortunately we have had to change the date of our April 2009 flying weekend, so please cancel April 25th & 26th in your calendars. It will be replaced with a FLying Weekend on April 11 & 12 2009. We apologise for any inconvenience this change may cause.

The RAAF Sabre being restored to flying condition by the Temora Aviation Museum has seen continual progress over the last eighteen months; however some big milestones have been achieved in recent weeks.

In November 2005 a significant commitment to preserving historical military aircraft was made when the Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Geoff Shepherd signed an Agreement with the Temora Aviation Museum. Under the agreement, co-signed by the Founder and President of the Museum Mr David Lowy AM, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) loaned their Sabre to the Temora Aviation Museum (TAM) who will restore it to flying condition and operate the aircraft at flying weekends and RAAF events.

Restoration on the Sabre is progressing very well at Temora with recent focus on preparing the aircraft to be taken out to the tarmac where it could undergo tests to the fuel tanks. Firstly the engineers attached the wing centre section to the fuselage followed by each wing being bolted onto the wing centre section. Next they fitted the last of five fuel tanks followed by the installation of temporary wheels and brakes which enabled the towing of the Sabre out of the Restoration Hangar, down the taxiway and onto the tarmac for refuelling.

With the Temora Aviation Museum fuel truck in place along with all safety gear Engineers Lindsay, Marty and Ben began to fill the fuel tanks in a specific order. They filled the forward fuselage tank first followed by the centre wing tank, left hand and right hand fuel tanks and finishing with the aft fuselage tank. To ensure the tanks were completely full the aft tank was filled until the forward tank began to overflow. The engineers conducted an inspection of all seals and fuel tank interconnects. The meticulous work of Ben and Marty was evident in the absence of any leaks. Well Done Guys!

After the fuel tests the Sabre returned to the Restoration Hangar where it is undergoing the next phase of its restoration. The vertical stabiliser and aileron actuator fittings have been removed for Non-Destructive Testing (NDT). The bolts and mounts of the vertical stabiliser have been sent to Melbourne for testing, and an NDT specialist will visit the Museum soon to conduct testing of the larger items on site.

Aircraft Engineer Ben’s next restoration task will be the to work on the wing’s electrical wiring installation, while Aircraft Engineer Marty will focus on cleaning up and inspecting the vertical stabiliser area on the aft fuselage.

A completion date for the Restoration is still too far off to advertise a specific date however we are working very hard to ensure that the Sabre will fly again in 2008!!

The Sabre, on loan from the Royal Australian Air Force, continues to undergo restoration in the Museum’s Aircraft Restoration Hangar.

In the last six months Aircraft Engineers Martin Lancaster and Ben Muller have completed several maintenance tasks on the aircraft. This includes the completed inspection and testing of the wing’s leading edges, the replacement of fuel seals and the inspection and testing of the fuel transfer system.

The engineers are continuing to overhaul the hydraulic system components from the wings and fuselage. This involves cleaning and checking parts for wear, corrosion and damage. This process can be time consuming, as a damaged part will either require repair or the outsourcing of replacements. Once inspected, these components are re-assembled and tested on a hydraulic test bench to check they operate correctly before being refitted to the aircraft.

The Sabre’s fuselage is made up of two sections, the front and rear, these will soon be separated to access the internal components of the fuselage, such as hydraulics, engine controls, electrical wiring, flight controls and air conditioning components. All these sections will require extensive inspection and overhauling. The internal structure and the engine bay will also require inspection to check for fatigue cracks, damage and corrosion.

SPITFIRE ANNUAL INSPECTION

Meanwhile, in the Aircraft Engineering Hangar our Engineering Team are carrying out an annual inspection on the Spitfire Mk VIII. As part of the maintenance, the engine has been removed to allow inspections to be carried out to areas normally inaccessible when the engine is installed.

It is the first time in over 20 years that this procedure has been done, and it will allow the engineers full access to inspect the engine mount, firewall and spar carry through members etc. The installation of new canopy perspex and windscreen will also be carried out.

METEOR DROP TANKS

Regular Flying Weekend commentator Peter Anderson has also joined the Museum team for a few weeks to prepare the Meteor wing drop tanks so that they can be used for the aircraft’s flight to Edinburgh RAAF Base SA in October. The tanks are being disassembled, paint stripped and fitted with new seals and gaskets prior to being re-painted and flight tested.