RAAF Canberra Bomber Restoration – Volunteers Wanted

This request has just arrived in our inbox, with a note saying “I don’t pass on this type of email unless I can see some real value to our community – Phillip Island, Vic – and this is one of those occasions…often we only need to ask and the right people surface.”

Can you help or pass on the information?

“Oceania Aviation Museum Inc. is an Incorporated Association volunteer based organisation that undertakes museum restoration work that it feels has lasting heritage and educationally based values. A copy of our Mission Statement and Statement of Purpose is available by calling Colin Grey Project Manager after hours 5956 7952 or mob 0431 544 812.

In early October 2007 one of the last surviving former RAAF English Electric Canberra bombers will be delivered to Phillip Island for restoration and display at the National Vietnam Veterans Museum at Cape Woolamai.

Canberra A84-307 is an historically important aircraft in that is was the first Canberra to go into service with the RAAF in August of 1953. It was heavily involved in the Indonesian Confrontation of 1964-1966 and the War in Vietnam from 1966-1968. It was significantly modified for training in the Ground Attack role and is the sole survivor of its model type in the world.

To assist with the sourcing of funds and equipment for the Canberra project Oceania Aviation Museum Inc. has undertaken a project to construct two Japanese Zero type aircraft and one Japanese Type 97 tank for a film being undertaken in Victoria. The project is underway, with the equipment being constructed in a Cowes factory.

Oceania Aviation would gratefully accept any offers from interested & enthusiastic individuals who can spare some time over the next few weeks, the project concluding in late November 2007. Experience in fabrication and manufacture is not essential, some experience with hand tools would be an advantage however, all would be welcome.”

For more info please contact:

Colin Grey Project Manager – Email ceegrey@waterfront.net.au, after hours phone 03 5956 7952 or mob 0431 544 812.