Anyone interested in aviation or military history will love a visit to the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre, near Ipswich. Housed in hangars at RAAF base Amberley, Australia’s largest operating airbase.
You can walk around and get up close to the F-111, known for its iconic "dump and burn". There is also a WWII Boston Bomber, Vietnam-era Canberra bomber, Caribou airlifter, Sioux and Iroquois helicopters, and WWII Jeeps on display. There are also Sabre and Mirage fighter jets.
The museum focuses on the RAAF’s important role in South-East Queensland in both war and peace times, with exhibits, armaments, aircraft modules, engines and more. Reservists and volunteers act as friendly guides so you can feel free to ask them anything. There’s a gift shop selling model planes, DVDs, books and clothing, plus a sausage sizzle and coffee van during Open Days.
The Centre is open every third Sunday of the month, except December. For School and Community groups, by prior arrangement, the centre is open Tuesday and Thursday between 9am and 3pm. Entry is free, however visitors must complete pre-registration to meet the base security access requirements to access the base.
Donations are welcome.