Member for Orange Mr Phil Donato MP pictured being led on a tour of the HARS Aviation Museum in Parkes.
The HARS Parkes Aviation Museum welcomed Member for Orange Mr Phil Donato MP last Thursday to see museum progress and to view plans to construct a world class aviation museum in the central west.
Mr Donato said about his visit “Last week I made a return visit to this unique tourist attraction. Mike De La Hunty and his volunteer crew do an amazing job with the wide display of aircraft, aviation artifacts and memorabilia.”
The collection of aircraft and aviation related items continues to grow and with plans to house the aircraft in a purpose built structure to protect them from the elements, and ensure the aircraft be preserved for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
Of particular interest to Mr Donato was the participation of Parkes High School students, who for the past 8 years have undertaken a full range of activities that will assist them in their eventual move into the workforce. Over the years the students have participated in the reassembly of aircraft, preparation for painting, mechanical work, carpentry and general upkeep of the museum.
The museum is looking forward to the arrival of two Bofors anti-aircraft guns that have been refurbished and will go on display. The Bofors anti-aircraft gun was widely manufactured and used by Commonwealth countries during WW2. Some were built in Australia and used in Darwin, New Guinea and Tobruk.
The HARS Aviation Museum is located at Parkes airport, open Thursdays and Sundays.