Located in Caboolture in the Moreton Bay region, the Caboolture Warplane Museum is a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Established in 1995, the museum stands as Queensland’s sole operational warplane museum, offering visitors a unique opportunity to fly in a warplane. The primary objective of the museum is to showcase the rich history of military and civil aviation, with a specific focus on artefacts from Australian Aviation History, notably from WW11 and Vietnam. By preserving and exhibiting these relics, the museum pays homage to the pioneering and heroic aviators who have shaped the aviation industry.
Fun For All Ages
For children and adults alike, the museum provides experiences such as ‘flying’ the Huey helicopter; a full sized Iroquois where it served in UN Peacekeeping. Special interest groups, photography events, and social groups often frequent the museum. One of the notable attractions is the D-C47 Dakota, known as the “Skytrain of the Skies,” which holds significant historical value from its service with the RAF flying dignitaries Sir Winston Churchill and King George VI.
The museum also highlights remarkable individuals like Leonard Waters, Queensland’s first Aboriginal fighter pilot, and a newly acquired P40 Kittyhawk is now on display. Len flew Kittyhawks in WWII. Visitors delve into the stories behind these admirable icons, such as the Gipsy Moth, meticulously restored to its original condition.
Vintage Aircraft – Admirable Icons in Early Aviation
It’s 1931 – imagine nine days of flight, from England to Australia, in a vintage classic biplane and only a flying jacket and headwear for protection against harsh weather. A total distance of 16,898kms or 10,500 miles will leave your mind boggling at the bravery of the pilot and sheer guts it took to fly into a night sky with sudden engine cuts due to water in the fuel.
It’s 1953 – the severely cyclone damaged aircraft was discovered in storage in outback Western Australian town of Trayning. One pilot’s passion to see it fly again set in motion the future of this aircraft’s second-life along with two dusty log books.
In mid 1980’s, the Gipsy Moth was bought to Caboolture to begin a project to return it to its original condition, as it was, 88 years ago, and, include the original British registration markings (G-ABHY). Nowadays, VH-UQH remains airworthy and is an admirable icon in early aviation memories of yesteryear.
With a diverse collection of exhibits ranging from an F111 crew module to WWI & WWII memorabilia, visitors can immerse themselves in over an hour of captivating learning. The museum offers personalised tours from our knowledgeable and experienced tour guides. Admission fees are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors/ carers/ students and children five and under are free.
The museum is open seven days from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, except on select holidays. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a unique experience, the Caboolture Warplane Museum promises an unforgettable journey into the world of aviation history.
The museum strives to provide visitors with the best experience possible.
Visit the Caboolture Warplane Museum
- Address: Hangar 101/157 McNaught Rd, Caboolture QLD 4510
- Phone: (07) 5330 1969
- Email: info@cwpmuseum.com.au
- Website: please click here to visit their website.
Featured image: Pilot, Ross Parker, on the wing of his CAC Wirraway 695.
Editorial supplied by Caboolture Warplane Museum.
