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Queensland Air Museum Visual Story

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Arrival at the Queensland Air Museum

Arrive at the Queensland Air Museum by following Pathfinder Drive and turning right into the museum's entrance. The car park, a mix of bitumen and gravel, includes a concrete pathway that leads directly to the museum's entrance. This entrance is located beneath a distinctive domed structure to the right of the car park, with another hangar positioned to the left.

For convenience, there are two accessible car parking spaces close to the entrance as well as picnic tables and chairs. The museum itself spans over two hectares and features two large hangars, numerous outdoor displays, and a variety of workshops. The museum is located close to Caloundra airport and other aviation businesses.

A substantial grey industrial structure is positioned behind a well-kept grass field. Near the centre and closer to the front, a smaller building with a domed metal roof displays a sign and a mounted propeller. An Australian flag, among other flags, flies on a pole to the right of this building. A neatly manicured grass area stretches in the foreground, with clear paths leading to the buildings.
On the left, a large industrial building with open sides reveals parked vehicles and equipment inside, amidst a well-kept grassy area. On the right, a similar-sized industrial building is partly obscured by dense foliage, with a white building in the centre background. The foreground displays a wide asphalt road, bordered by delineated driveways leading to both buildings. The grass is uniformly green and a small sign is placed on the right lawn.
To the left is a large, dome-shaped metallic building with a corrugated surface, next to which a black SUV is parked. To the right, there is a grassy area dotted with trees and small signposts. In the foreground, a concrete path runs centrally, leading to a gravel driveway. The area around the building is covered with grass and gravel, with trees also visible.
A closer view reveals a large, dome-shaped metallic building with a corrugated surface to the left. To the right, there's a grassy area with trees, small signposts, and a picnic table. In the foreground, a concrete path runs centrally, leading to a gravel driveway. The vicinity of the building is covered with grass and gravel, and trees are also visible. Directional signage is affixed to the side of the building.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. Flags flapping in wind
  2. Birds chirping
  3. Aircraft sounds
  4. Vehicles passing by
  5. Gravel surface
Smell

Smells

  1. The smell of aviation fuel (occasional)
  2. Fresh air
  3. External weather conditions
  4. Concrete & gravel
  5. Coffee aroma (distant)
Touch

Feel

  1. Excitement & anticipation
  2. Change in floor surfaces
  3. External weather conditions
  4. Humidity (seasonal)
Sight

Sight

  1. Domed structure
  2. Aviation themed displays
  3. Flags flying
  4. Aircraft
  5. Parked vehicles

Entrance & Front Counter

Upon arrival at the Queensland Air Museum, access is granted through Hangar One. The front door remains open during operational hours, with a small ramp facilitating entry. Directly in front, visitors are greeted by the front counter where they can pay, receive a map, and obtain directions for their visit.

To the left of the entrance is the retail area offering cold drinks, coffee, tea, and ice creams on a smooth concrete floor. Further to the right of the entrance, additional retail items are available alongside a TV displaying videos of aircraft restoration.

On the left, a reception counter features a welcome sign, informational brochures, and aviation merchandise. A person stands behind the counter in front of a wall decorated with posters and a large circular sign. On the right, various large aircraft models and exhibits are displayed, with a black aircraft in a prominent position. The floor is grey concrete, and the ceiling is metallic with geometric structures, along with several aircraft models suspended above.
Shelves on both sides are stocked with model kits, toys, and collectibles. The left side displays red and blue model boxes, while the right features white cubby-style shelves with assorted figurines, mugs, and hats. The floor is light grey, and the wooden ceiling has overhead lights and a model aeroplane. In the background, framed pictures and additional items are visible. The metallic ceiling suspends several aeroplane models, and the floor is covered with grey tiles.
On the left, posters and information boards adorn the wall, beside an entrance with glass doors and a flatscreen showing images. To the right, a customer service desk features a computer terminal and informational signage. Display shelves and merchandise are visible inside. The floor is a polished grey surface, and the high ceiling is decorated. Additionally, chairs and aviation-themed posters are on the right, with a model aeroplane suspended overhead.
On the left, there is a retail area with shelves displaying various items, clothing racks, and a counter with brochures and merchandise. On the right, there is a large aviation-themed display with a prominent biplane suspended from the ceiling. In the background, walls decorated with aviation posters, memorabilia, and information panels. The foreground features a grey concrete floor and a high, corrugated metal ceiling with additional model planes hanging from it.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. Directional instructions from staff
  2. Video presentations
  3. Visitors asking questions
  4. Aircraft sounds
  5. People talking & laughing
Smell

Smells

  1. Mechanical smells (distant)
  2. Food & drinks (occasional)
  3. Controlled air environment
  4. Fresh air (through doorway)
Touch

Feel

  1. Cold (in cooler months)
  2. Humidity (seasonal)
  3. Gravel to concrete floor surface
  4. Excitement & interest
  5. Close proximity to others
Sight

Sight

  1. Food & retail items for sale
  2. Video presentations
  3. Instructional signs & memos
  4. People queueing at counter
  5. Aviation displays

Hangar One

Continuing right from the counter, is the entrance to the Boeing 737-800 simulator, which is available for pre-booking via the museum's website. Straight ahead from the counter, the path leads to the military aviation section, featuring the F-111 (available to book online for a specific experience), as well as an array of military aviation history displays and artifacts.

Scannable bar codes on the information boards provide further details. Towards the back and to the left of the hangar, visitors can explore the Civilian Aviation area as well as a Kids Corner, completing a comprehensive tour of aviation history. Whilst the floor surface is smooth, concrete there are some tight spaces when maneuvering through the displays.

On the left, there is a display case filled with various memorabilia and a small information kiosk. Above it hangs the front section of an aircraft. In the centre, there is a black and silver aircraft surrounded by safety barriers, with a metal staircase with handrails providing access to its cockpit. In the background, on the right, additional aircraft parts and displays are visible. The floor is concrete, and the ceiling is an arched, ribbed structure made of metal.
On the left, there is a staircase leading to an upper level and a row of display cases. Behind the caution tape, there are red seats attached to some machinery. On the right, there is an enclosed exhibit with various items and informational posters. In the background, there is another exhibit and signage about the Battle of Vietnam. The floor is polished concrete, and the ceiling is high with exposed beams and a combination of skylights and panels.
On the left, a dark blue sign stating "The Pathfinder Force" is next to a white door with a small window and another sign. A blue chair and a small desk rest against the wall. On the right, a green and brown military aircraft is encircled by display boards and rope bollards. In the background, various exhibits and information panels are visible. The floor is grey concrete, and the ceiling features a corrugated metal design with overhead lighting.
On the left, there is a large aircraft with its wing extending overhead, and yellow barriers along the walk path. Beneath the wing, there are various machines and equipment. On the right, there is an interactive exhibit for kids with colourful graphics and control panels. In the background, the space opens to more displays and information boards. The floor is concrete, and the ceiling is curved with visible ribbed metal panels and lighting fixtures.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. Video presentations
  2. Announcements from air traffic (PA)
  3. Fans whirring
  4. Directional instructions from staff
  5. People talking
Smell

Smells

  1. Museum & musty smells (occasional)
  2. Mechanical smells (occasional)
  3. Humidity (seasonal)
  4. Controlled air environment
Touch

Feel

  1. Historical stories (potential trigger)
  2. Smooth, concrete floor surface
  3. Interest & awe
  4. Confined & close proximity
  5. Amazement
Sight

Sight

  1. Video presentations
  2. Artefacts & historical items
  3. Aviation displays & memorabilia
  4. Glass cabinets & reflections
  5. Fans & bright lights

Courtyard, Library & Workshops

Exiting Hangar One past the tail of the F-111, visitors enter the open Courtyard, featuring a collection of small civilian aircraft. In this area, loudspeakers broadcast live air traffic control communications from the local airport. The Courtyard has concrete pathways, which may be uneven in some areas. To the right, a path leads to the library which is only accessible to members. 

Directly ahead, along the back fence, there are small workshops where volunteers restore aircraft and curate displays. Following the path to the left through the Courtyard leads to Hangar Two. Halfway along this route, on the left, a gate opens to the carpark, accommodating large groups and visitors with larger, motorised wheelchairs.

On the left, there is a missile displayed on a stand with various older aircraft positioned behind it. On the right, several small aircrafts are parked in a row, including a red and white aeroplane. In the background, additional aircraft are visible alongside a few hangars and some trees. The foreground features grass with a concrete pathway running through it.
A small airfield or airport with several small airplanes parked on a well-maintained grassy area. There is a large hangar in the background on the left side, partially open, with additional aircraft visible inside. The foreground features three airplanes, with two aircraft marked with the letters "BPA" prominently on their fuselages. A white low-set building accessible via small steps with handrails is partially visible on the left.
Several aircraft are arranged outdoors, with a large hangar extending horizontally across the background. On the left, various military-style helicopters and planes are positioned, with a paved walkway edged by grass leading to the hangar. On the right, the front of a white propeller airplane is visible, including the cockpit windows. The foreground features a well-kept grass lawn with shadows cast by the aircraft.
On the left, a silver and white aircraft with logos and registration numbers is parked on grass, with a large arched hangar in the background and several smaller buildings nearby. On the right, another aircraft with blue and white markings is partially inside an open hangar, alongside a blue and white helicopter. The foreground features a concrete pathway curving through the green grass.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. Aircraft from local airport
  2. Passing vehicles
  3. Birds chirping
  4. Trees rustling
  5. Announcement's from air traffic (PA)
Smell

Smells

  1. Mechanical smells (occasional)
  2. The smell of aviation fuel (occasional)
  3. External weather conditions
  4. Fresh air
Touch

Feel

  1. Uneven paths & grass
  2. Disorientated
  3. External weather conditions
  4. Close proximity to others
Sight

Sight

  1. Pathways
  2. External structures & buildings
  3. Aircraft displays
  4. People viewing displays
  5. Directional signs

Hangar Two

To the right of the entrance to Hangar Two is a line of helicopters on display and when entering the hangar, visitors pass beneath the wing of an ‘Airlines of NSW’ aircraft. To the left are the bathrooms: the men's bathroom, an accessible bathroom equipped with a baby change table, shower, and toilet with grab rails; and the ladies' bathroom houses two toilets. Please note that is a tight manoeuvring space for power wheelchairs to enter the accessible toilet. 

Adjacent to this area is an open space often utilised for events. Notable aircraft such as a Cropmaster are on display—mind the overhanging aircraft parts. Exiting the hangar, a path leads left to an extensive outdoor aircraft display.

On the left, a light green building features a "Toilet" sign with an arrow pointing downwards. In the centre, a passage with a corrugated overhead sheet leads to an aircraft exhibit, marked by an "Entry" sign above. On the right, a military helicopter is displayed, its rotor blade visible, on a gravel surface. The foreground consists of gravel, grass, and a concrete pathway, while the ceiling is made of corrugated metal with exposed beams.
On the left, there is an area of grass with two parked aircraft. An information board and two bins, one yellow and one black, stand on concrete, against a white wall featuring an illustrated poster. The right side shows a white cubicle-like structure with a louvred window and a door. The foreground has a mix of concrete and grassy areas; the floor inside is light grey. The background includes a large green wall and metallic cladding on the building, with structural beams visible.
An accessible bathroom includes a toilet with hand grabs in the corner. To the left wall, a tissue dispenser, hand dryer, sink, and liquid soap dispenser are mounted. A louvre window is central. The floor is tiled in grey, while the walls and ceiling are painted cream. A black rubbish bin and a reminder poster are also visible.
On the left, an area of grass hosts two parked aircraft. An information board and two bins, one yellow and one black, are positioned on concrete against a white wall with an illustrated poster. The right features a white cubicle-like structure with a louvred window and door. The foreground is a mix of concrete and grass; the interior floor is light grey. The background shows a large green wall and a building with metallic cladding, with structural beams visible.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. Aircraft from local airport
  2. Mechanical sounds (occasional)
  3. Crunching gravel underfoot
  4. Instructions from staff
Smell

Smells

  1. Fresh air
  2. Mechanical smells (occasional)
  3. The smell of aviation fuel (occasional)
  4. External weather conditions
Touch

Feel

  1. Hard floor surface (hangar)
  2. Uneven floor surface (outside)
  3. Stairs into displays
  4. Elevated heart rate (walking)
  5. Overwhelm
Sight

Sight

  1. Helicopters lined up
  2. Large, open hangar
  3. Aircraft & memorabilia
  4. Directional signage
  5. Aircraft flying overhead (occasional)

Outdoor Display Area

Venture outside Hangar Two and follow the path left to the expansive outdoor aircraft display. This area showcases a remarkable array of aircraft, including notable models like a Neptune and a Caribou. Be aware that the terrain can become wet and boggy in rainy conditions, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Along the back fence, an impressive line-up of aircraft awaits, featuring a Fokker and a Queensland Airlines Piaggio. This display is complemented by green workers' sheds, where volunteers tirelessly work on the restoration of donated aircraft and aircraft parts.

On the left, there are several smaller aeroplanes with white and blue markings. On the right, a large, grey aircraft with four propellers is on display. The foreground consists of a gravel path leading to a grassy area where the planes are positioned. Several other aircraft can be seen scattered in the background, alongside trees and a building. The setting is an open-air plane exhibition area with clear visibility of each aircraft.
On the left, several aeroplanes with white and blue markings are displayed. On the right, a large grey military aircraft with four propellers is showcased. The entire area is carpeted with green grass. Additional aircraft, trees, and a building are visible in the background. The setting is an open-air plane exhibition area, with each aircraft clearly visible.
On the left, several aeroplanes with white and blue markings are on display. To the right, a large grey military aircraft with four propellers is featured. The entire area is covered in green grass. In the background, more aircraft, trees, and a building can be seen. A low, green building with a corrugated facade is also on the right.
On the left, there is a white aircraft resting on a grassy field. In the middle distance to the left, there is a yellow barrier with a sign attached to it. To the right, another aircraft with a mix of blue and white paint is positioned on the grass. The foreground consists of green grass, and a collection of various planes is visible in the background. Trees and buildings are further back.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. Aircraft taking off from airport
  2. Banging & clanging
  3. Trees rustling
  4. Sounds from local businesses
Smell

Smells

  1. Fresh air
  2. Mechanical smells (mild)
  3. The smell of aviation fuel (occasional)
  4. External weather conditions
Touch

Feel

  1. Uneven ground
  2. Historical aircraft (potential trigger)
  3. Aircraft sounds (potential trigger)
  4. External weather conditions
  5. Amazement
Sight

Sight

  1. Local factories & businesses
  2. Aircraft flying overhead
  3. Vehicles passing by
  4. Aircraft on display
  5. Trees & grass

Golf Buggy

At the Queensland Air Museum, a golf buggy is available for visitors with mobility needs, stored conveniently in Hangar One. To access this service, please inquire at the front counter where friendly staff are on hand to assist.

Trained staff will operate the buggy to ensure safe and efficient transport around the museum. Additionally, collapsible manual wheelchairs are also available upon request, further enhancing the accessibility of the museum for all visitors. Please ask the staff for more details or assistance with these facilities.

A grey golf cart with a white roof is situated on the left side. The golf cart has black seats and is parked on a concrete surface adjacent to a grassy area. Towards the right, a white aircraft with the registration number BP stands in front of a hangar. In the background, several more aircrafts are visible on display on the grass. The foreground includes a concrete path and the grass appears well-maintained.
A light-coloured aircraft marked with "BPA" on the left stands on a grassy area. To the right, a small golf cart labelled "Club Car" is parked on a concrete path. In the background, additional aircrafts are positioned on the grass. The foreground features grass with a drainage grill. A person stands near another aircraft on the far right, with the horizon lined with sparse trees. Green grass surrounds the area.
On the left, a golf cart is parked on a concrete path beside a beige, metallic building. In the centre and towards the background, multiple light aircraft are visible, some partially within a large open hangar. On the right, a white jet aeroplane marked "CPA" on its fuselage is positioned on green grass, supported by a metal railing. The foreground includes well-maintained grass and signage.
A view from inside a hangar with the doors open. On the left, there are several parked aircraft, including one with 'BPA' written on its fuselage. In the middle, there is a concrete path leading to a grassy field with more aircraft in the background. On the right, an orange traffic cone stands near the doorway. The hangar floor is grey concrete with a ribbed mat and a yellow-black hazard strip at the entrance. The ceiling and rest of the hangar interior are not visible.
Hearing

Sounds

  1. Aircraft taking off from airport
  2. Banging & clanging
  3. Sounds from local businesses
  4. Instructions from staff
  5. Vehicle sounds
Smell

Smells

  1. Fresh air
  2. Mechanical smell (occasional)
  3. The smell of aviation fuel (occasional)
  4. External weather conditions
  5. Leather scent (golf cart)
Touch

Feel

  1. Uneven ground
  2. External weather conditions
  3. Excitement
  4. Humidity (seasonal)
  5. Kinesthetic feel (during a buggy ride)
Sight

Sight

  1. Golf buggy
  2. External structures & buildings
  3. Aircraft displays
  4. People on rides
  5. Green grass
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Thank You

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