BUILDING WORKS COMMENCE ON HINKLER HALL OF AVIATION

The start of construction of the $6.9 million Hinkler Hall of Aviation in Bundaberg was marked today with a ceremonial sod turning.

Arts Minister Rod Welford said the tourism attraction, due to open in early 2008, would celebrate the groundbreaking achievements of aviation pioneer Bert Hinkler, one of Queensland’s greatest heroes.

“Upon its completion, Hinkler Hall, with its size and scope, will be a major visitor drawcard for the Wide Bay Region,” Mr Welford said.

“The Hall, to be built in the shape of a giant aeroplane wing, will be large enough to house five of the planes that Bert flew, including four replicas and one part original plane.

“It will also present memorabilia from Bert’s amazing life – tracing his early years in Bundaberg to his role as a record-breaking international hero.”

Mr Welford said the sod turning marked an important phase in the journey to document Bundaberg’s unique place in aviation history.

“The Beattie Government has supported this project since its inception in 2001, and provided initial funding of $485,000 through the Millennium Arts Regional Program - a statewide initiative to upgrade and expand arts and cultural facilities,“ he said.

“In 2006, the Premier announced a further funding boost of $1.5 million to help make the project a reality.

“Constructing a facility large enough to house five planes has always been a dream for the Bundaberg community and it is gratifying to see construction now starting on a design which realises this vision.”

The Hinkler Hall of Aviation is a joint initiative of the Beattie Government, the Commonwealth, Bundaberg City Council and the Hinkler House Memorial Museum and Research Association Inc.

The Beattie Government is providing $1.985 million to the project, with Commonwealth support of $4 million and Bundaberg City Council contributing $1 million.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz on 3237 1000 or 0419 734 985