Really enjoyed this museum. Displays were informative, interesting and diverse. Loved being able... read more
Really enjoyed this museum. Displays were informative, interesting and diverse. Loved being able... read more
It's promoting the navy, I guess it should only be free. Anyway, after an obligatory introductory... read more
What a great place with so much Navy fleet arm history this is definitely a must do while your in town or close by especially now that it’s FREE entry! The whole family loved the visit and my 3 year old kept talking about it the whole trip. Definitely worth the drop in just plan to take it slowly so you can see it all definitely 2 hours at least
The display covers all the RAN's planes from the late 1940s to the end of its aircraft carrier (HMAS Melbourne) in 1982, thereafter with various helicopters.
It notably covers the RAN helicopter flight contribution to the Vietnam War, when flying with a US Army helicopter contingent. That part also included a video of RAN officers and men who flew in that war.
It is very impressive to be right up next to the various aircraft - especially the Fairy Gannett..
A note of warning. Refreshments are minimal - coffee and cakes. It has only just re-opened after being shut for about 6 months, due to COVID restrictions. Minimal book purchases, though. The major book is a case study of what the first graduates from the Naval College went on to do, in their respective naval careers.
Entry is now free.
We enjoyed the drive to the museum which is located with incredible views. We visited here in the morning of a weekday and other than ourselves there was only one other couple who left before we did which was pretty awesome to have the place to ourselves. We walked around taking our time viewing the beautiful aircraft and learning about our History. We sat upstairs in the cafeteria area which was closed just to enjoy watching aircraft landing and taking off. On the way out we purchased some merchandise which was reasonably priced.
We really enjoyed our visit and would definitely come back again if in the area.
A great place to look back in history of the navy and it’s fleet air. Very informative but also sad. Has an fantastic simulator which the kids loved. My kids were under 16 so they got in for free. Only negative is they don’t have a cafe.
Have taken my son here as a 4, 5 and 7 year old when we come this way. A good stop every time. Can’t get enough of that helicopter simulator, its the value add on that keeps us coming back. Well worth a visit if driving through. Even my 5 yr old daughter who isn’t a plane enthusiast enjoyed it. Very affordable entry with only paying for adults.
Had a great couple of hours here, the story about the sinking & finding of HMAS Sydney II was fascinating. The kids love the simulator, we couldn’t get near it ! I would recommend a visit to see some of our aircraft history.