By Ian Badham of HARS Aviation Museum
Australia’s first operational Sabre jet fighter from the 1950s joins with the unique sight and sound of three former submarine-hunting and marine patrol Lockheed Neptunes from the 1960s to highlight the April monthly Tarmac Days display at HARS Aviation Museum on Friday 11, Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 April.
Adding to the interest, work will continue over the weekend on engines of Connie, which is not only the official mascot aircraft at the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society (HARS) but also the world’s only remaining airworthy Lockheed Super Constellation airliner from the 1950s.
Developed from the American F86 Sabre, Australia’s locally built CA-27 fighter was not only faster but also better armed than its USA predecessor.
Due to its post-retirement “gate duty” at Williamston air base, Sabre 01 no longer flies but is beautifully restored and will be presented on the tarmac for the weekend.
In addition, engineers are aiming to do engine runs on their former RAAF de Havilland Caribou and possibly Grumman Tracker aircraft.
“It’s the skill and dedication of our volunteers – engineers, pilots and our many support crew – which keeps the Neptunes and so many other aircraft operational,” HARS president and chief pilot Bob De La Hunty said.
“Tarmac Days allow our museum visitors to get a feeling of what aviation was like decades ago.”
Almost 60 aircraft form the Australian aviation heritage on show at the largely undercover HARS Aviation Museum.
Volunteers needed
HARS is seeking additional volunteers to serve as tour guides and to help out in the operation of its popular Café Connie.
To register then come to an information session, would-be volunteers are asked to send a quick email to harsinfo@hars.org.au
Closed Christmas Day and open every other day
Closed only on Christmas Day, HARS Aviation Museum offers a largely undercover and hands-on experience for visitors at its Shellharbour Airport hangars.
HARS Aviation Museum is open from 9.30 to 3.30 daily for tours hosted by informative volunteer guides (last tour 2 pm). It is located at Shellharbour Airport, off the old Princes Highway at Albion Park Rail and just a short walk from the railway station.
Cafe Connie at HARS Aviation Museum
Visitors can make a meal of it when they drop into Café Connie (9.30 am to 2 pm) where the menu offers a great value selection of delicious home-made hot and cold foods plus excellent coffee.
Details of check-in at HARS Aviation Museum at www.hars.org.au
