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Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre

Annual Report

2014

Cover Image: President Rob Lynch at the opening of the Ahrens Hangar, 23 May 2014.

NHILL AVIATION HERITAGE CENTRE INC.

Statement of Purpose

1. To highlight the significant role of aviation in the ongoing development of Nhill

2. To research and record the history of the RAAF Air School in Nhill from 1941 – 1946

within the broader context of Nhill’s aviation and aerodrome history

3. To collect Air School artefacts to display in secure premises

4. To acquire and restore an Avro Anson aeroplane, leaving it as a legacy to this and

future generations.

Management Committee 2013‐14

President: Rob Lynch #

Vice President: Len Creek #

Secretary: Joan Bennett

Treasurer: Trevor Borgelt

Max Carland #

Brian Creek #

Mick Kingwill #

Nathan Wheeler #

Graham Drage

John Deckert

Merv Schneider

Allen Scott resigned

# denotes Board members retiring and eligible for re‐election.

Annual Report compiled and edited by Joan Bennett and John Deckert. All photographs used in this publication are from Joan Bennett or John Deckert unless

otherwise acknowledged.

Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre Inc

P.O Box 42 NHILL Vic 3418

Dear Association Member/s,

9th September 2014

I am pleased to forward the formal Notice and Agenda for the Annual General Meeting of the Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre Association Inc. to be held on Thursday 9th October 2014, at the Soldiers’ Lounge, Clarence Street, Nhill, at 7.30 pm.

This is an important meeting and we value your attendance.

The Guest Speaker will be Andrew Kube of Nhill.

Retiring Board members who are eligible for re‐election for two year terms are: Max Carland, Brian Creek, Len Creek, Mick Kingwill, Rob Lynch and Nathan Wheeler. Allen Scott is resigning at the end of the first year of his two year term, thus leaving a vacancy on the Board for a one year term.

Nomination forms are available from the Secretary Joan Bennett, phone 03 5391 1206/mobile 0438 265579. Completed forms may be posted to NAHC PO Box 42, Nhill 3418 or delivered to 2 Rockley Street, Nhill, and must be received before 5.30 pm on Thursday 2nd October 2014. Late nominations cannot be accepted.

The Board looks forward to your attendance and the opportunity to celebrate and share the exciting achievements of the last year.

Yours sincerely, Rob Lynch President

Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre Incorporated

P.O Box 42 NHILL Vic 3418

9th September 2014

Notice of the Annual General Meeting to be held in the Soldiers’ Lounge,

Clarence Street, Nhill, on Thursday 9th October 2014‐ 7.30pm

AGENDA

1. Welcome

2. President opens the meeting 3. Apologies

4. Minutes of previous Annual General Meeting, 10th October 2013

5. Presentation of 2013‐2014 Annual Report – Rob Lynch, President

6. Presentation of 2013‐2014 Financial Report – Trevor Borgelt, Treasurer

7. Election of Board of Management members

8. Appointment of Auditor

9. Guest Speaker –

10. Close of meeting

11. Supper and time for a talk

President Rob Lynch

Secretary Joan Bennett

NHILL AVIATION HERITAGE CENTRE ASSOCIATION INC

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING MINUTES

Thursday 10th October 2013 at 7.30 pm in Uniting Church Hall, Nhill

Present: Len Creek, Jenny Creek, George Bennett, Joan Bennett, Allen Scott, Kay Scott, Neil Thomas, Trevor Borgelt, Mick Kingwill, Graham Drage, Rob Gersch, Douglas Gowans, Pat Beacom, Ian Cramer, Whimpey Reichelt, Kent Goldsworthy, Max Carland, Jean Roberts, Bob Meek, Peter Clohesy, Janet Rowe, Norm Mansfield, Merv Schneider, Alf Sanders, Helen Woodhouse‐Herrick, Ron Lowe, Douglas Clarke, Daryl Zanker, Naomi Zanker, Emily Gash, Rob Lynch, Anne Champness, Ian Wheeler, Nathan Wheeler, Elly Dart, John Deckert, Brian Creek, Ross Gordon, Gordon Field, John Millington, Ian Stephan, Wes Dean, Mary Dufty, Rob Lynch. (44)

President Rob Lynch welcomed Hindmarsh Shire Council Mayor Gersch, Councillor Lowe and Directors Douglas Gowans and Anne Champness and NAHC members and friends to the meeting.

Apologies: from David Williams, Tony Doyle, Ron Griffin and Son, Bob Korreng, Phil King, Laurie Robins, Lesley Gordon, John Rethus were received on the motion of Whimpey Reichelt and Allen Scott. Carried.

Minutes of previous AGM 1st November 2012 were read by the Secretary Joan Bennett. John Deckert moved “that the Minutes as read be confirmed”, seconded by Max Carland and carried.

President’s Report July 1st 2012 – June 30th 2013 was presented by Rob Lynch.

Len Creek moved that the President’s Report be accepted. In so doing he commended Rob on his comprehensive report which outlined the diversity of NAHC activities during the past twelve months. Len also complimented Rob on his leadership, saying that Rob was especially talented in public relations, and everyone found working with Rob a pleasure. Janet Rowe seconded the resolution and it was carried unanimously.

Financial Report: Treasurer Trevor Borgelt presented the Report, noting that income from commission from the sale of Kevin O’Reilly’s books brought in $1175. Trevor highlighted the $6600.00 spent on the Avro Anson reconstruction, a small amount of money considering the work which had been achieved. Trevor then acknowledged the generosity of Auditor Peter Clohesy for checking the financial documents. Motion –Trevor Borgelt moved “that the Financial Report be received”, seconded by Merv Schneider and carried.

Appointment of Auditor 2013‐14: Trevor Borgelt moved, Kay Scott seconded “that Peter Clohesy be approached re carrying out the Auditor’s duties in the coming year”, carried. Peter Clohesy was in attendance at the meeting and graciously accepted the invitation.

Election of six members of the Board of Management 2013‐2015

President Rob Lynch vacated the Chair and invited Mayor Gersch to take the Chair for the election of six Board members.

Mayor Gersch highlighted activities for the forthcoming “Nhill – Open for Business” weekend, and drew attention to the conducted tours including a tour to the Aerodrome to show visitors the new NAHC Hangar with the concrete slab completed. He congratulated Dale Stanford on his workmanship in putting down the slab.

The Mayor reminded the gathering that the Victorian Minister for Local Government Jeanette Powell had given dispensation from open tendering for the building of the Centre/hangar due to the generosity of the Ahrens family.

Mayor Gersch further commented that the NAHC project at the Aerodrome was huge, but nearly to the lock‐up stage. He endorsed the NAHC actions and stressed the importance of the Aerodrome to Nhill. This was evidenced by the Shire allocating $127,000 to reseal the runway and apron; the Ambulance Transfer station was

also a big achievement. The Mayor congratulated the NAHC, observing that the excellent attendance at the meeting reflected a whole of community interest.

The Mayor then read six nominations for the Board of Management. Nominations were received from Joan Bennett, Trevor Borgelt, John Deckert, Graham Drage, Merv Schneider and Allen Scott. As the number of nominations did not exceed the vacancies, Mayor Gersch declared the six people duly elected.

Rob Lynch resumed the Chair, thanking the Mayor for Council’s interest on what has been an exciting journey.

Guest Speaker Neil Thomas: The President introduced Neil by saying that because Neil had spent his formative years in Nhill he would be remembered by many in the audience. Rob said that Neil is a modest man who hasn’t talked a lot about his achievements, so we look forward to an enlightening story from him.

Neil said that his father Tim was the maintenance electrician at the Air Force Base at Nhill Aerodrome in 1944‐45 and that’s when Neil’s interest in aviation began. He had his first flight in a Desouter aircraft with owner/pilot FJ Williams in 1946, and has since been pleased to see the same plane restored at Lilydale and now at the Moorabbin Aircraft Museum.

Neil left Nhill when he was seventeen to begin his apprenticeship with the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation at Fishermans Bend in Melbourne and which had its own airfield alongside, and which was also used by the Government Aircraft Factories. The Aeronautical Research Laboratories, a division of the CSIRO were nearby and were world leaders in the development of structural fatigue analysis, ultra sonic inspection technology, a development of which is now used in medical prognosis, and the development of the 'black box', a much more sophisticated version now widely used in accident investigation. CAC was the only aircraft factory in the world making the whole aeroplane including engines and components in the one complex. CAC was run by Lawrence Wackett, later Sir Lawrence Wackett who was widely regarded as ‘the father’ of the Australian Aircraft Industry.

A favourite memory is of Neil’s experiences with the Avon Sabre aircraft ‐ a very advanced plane of the day and which was the first to 'break the sound barrier' in Australia. Neil’s career included time spent working at Avalon in Victoria, as a member of a Gliding Club at Berwick and learning to fly powered aircraft at Moorabbin. He was also the owner of a Link Trainer purchased from the Gliding club for 5 pounds.

Neil joined the Department of Civil Aviation in 1964 as an Airworthiness Surveyor. DCA at that time had an excellent training school providing training in all disciplines pertaining to aircraft airworthiness. This training ensured that all surveyors were brought up to date with the latest aircraft operating in Australia. Some of the duties of Surveyors in those days included surveillance of aircraft maintenance, overhaul and manufacturing organisations; issue of maintenance engineer licences, issue Certificates of Airworthiness, investigation of major defects and assessment of manufacturers’ service data for implications on continued safety. He was also involved in the assessment and inspection of amateur built and ex‐military aircraft. Neil recalls meeting many characters, villains and some wonderful people while he had this regulatory role. But he learnt that there can be more than one way to conform to the intent of Civil Aviation Regulations. Neil also expressed the importance of paperwork and in particular the traceability of component parts from manufacture to installation on an aircraft. Neil retired in 1998 as District Airworthiness Manager based at Moorabbin

Neil received the Nancy Bird Award for his contribution to Aviation Safety in 1996.

President Rob Lynch expressed the delight of everyone present with Neil’s story, which had been interspersed with some delightfully humorous anecdotes. It was appreciated by all present.

Meeting Closure: The President closed the meeting at 9.10 pm, thanking everyone for their attendance, and inviting them to remain for supper and conversation.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2013‐2014

It is with much pleasure that I present my report for the year ending 30th June 2014

Introduction This is the sixth year since a public meeting held at the Nhill Aerodrome passed a resolution “that this meeting recognizes the importance of the Aerodrome in the ongoing history of Nhill, and supports the creation of an aviation memorial with focus initially on the RAAF presence in Nhill from 1941‐1946”.

The current reporting year is about strong community support, steady growth in Association membership (170), a growing understanding of the Board of Management role, and most notably ‐ exciting achievements.

NAHC Nelson Street Shop Front

The Board of Management is indebted to Gary Driscoll and Andrew McIllree for allowing us to use

their shop front rooms in Nelson Street free of charge. The memorabilia display in the window is

changed from time to time and attracts many passers‐ by and

visitors to stop and view with interest.

Soldiers’ Lounge – RSL Rooms:

Monthly meetings and other workshops have been held in the

Soldiers’ Lounge in Clarence Street. We appreciate the

generosity of the Nhill RSL Sub Branch. Two of our Board

members who belong to the RSL ‐ Max Carland and Merv

Schneider ‐ have celebrated big life events this year. Max

Carland turned 90, and Merv Schneider was awarded the

Order of Australia Medal – OAM‐ in the Queen’s Birthday

Honours List, for service to this community. Congratulations

Merv! Merv and Max served in the RAAF during WWll and both

gentlemen continue to serve our community with distinction.

Business Plan January 2014 – December 2015:

In 2013‐2014 the Board of Management significantly increased its responsibilities and workload.

The production of a Business Plan to address the needs, interests and aspirations of the Board in

the lead‐up to the centenary of flight into Nhill in 2019 became a priority.

Association member and mentor/adviser Jean Roberts of Melbourne facilitated a Workshop in

November 2013 attended by Board members, senior Hindmarsh Shire personnel, and community

leaders. Subjects which the ensuing Business Plan addresses include strategic priorities and tasks,

as well as clarifying our working relationships with the Nhill Aerodrome Master Plan Advisory

Committee and the Hindmarsh Shire Council.

The Business Plan guides us through issues such as finance, risk and income generation. Our

thanks go to Jean for her facilitation.

Organisational Structure:

The NAHC Board’s operating structure includes Standing committees, Task oriented sub‐

committees, and Special Events sub‐committees.

Standing committees are: Executive, Finance, and Planning & Promotions

Task oriented sub‐committees are: Avro Anson, Link Trainers, Aeradio Station

Special Events sub‐committees are: Studebaker Sub‐committee and the Nhill Air Show

Sub‐committee.

NAHC initiated a Think Tank in this reporting year to advise the Board on the development

of a Business Case. We are waiting on their final report.

Sub‐committee reports are included in this Annual report. The Finance sub‐committee has not

met.

Nhill Air Show Sub‐Committee:

The Board planned to hold a third Fly‐ In during 2015. The Chairperson of Nhill Aerodrome Master

Plan Advisory Committee Andrew Kube presented a case for upgrading from a Fly‐In to an Air

Show. The Board accepted the challenge, and at the March Board meeting formed the Nhill Air

Show sub‐committee to begin planning for the event to be held on Saturday 10th October 2015.

Aviation Heritage Centre Ahrens Hangar Building Project Milestones

July 2013: Construction by Ahrens began, after Richard Williams prepared the site.

August 2013: Hindmarsh Shire Council began the upgrade of fire suppression facilities.

October 2013: Dale Stanford completed the concrete floor to a very high standard.

18th November 2013: Keys to the new Hangar were handed over by Ahrens engineer

project manager Adam Shanahan to Rob Lynch, President of NAHC

23rd November 2013: Like a butterfly, Avro Anson W2364 emerged from the cocoon of

Mick Kingwill’s shed.

24th November 2013: The partially restored Avro Anson was towed from Mick Kingwill’s

shed to temporary storage in the WW ll Bellman Hangar occupied by the Nhill Aero Club.

This was the first Avro Anson on Nhill Aerodrome in almost seventy years.

13th February 2014: The concrete floor was painted by Board members, with oversight and

assistance from Haymes Paints representatives. Haymes Paints part sponsored the costs.

22nd February 2014: The Avro Anson was moved into its permanent home, the Ahrens

Hangar. Mick Kingwill, Len Creek and Whimpey Reichelt with assistance from Kent

Goldsworthy, continued restoration.

24th March 2014: The Lease Agreement between Hindmarsh Shire Council and Nhill

Aviation Heritage Centre Association Inc was signed by Tony Doyle Shire CEO and Joan

Bennett Secretary NAHC.

23rd May 2014: NAHC Ahrens Hangar was officially opened in the presence of approx.

750 people.

June 2014: NAHC obtained a Certificate of Occupation.

The Ahrens family of Sheaoak Log, South Australia (owners of local firm Sherwells) built the

Hangar at cost. The Ahrens Hangar was built for a total cost of $405,000 made up of ‐ $50,000

start‐up funds donated by the Ahrens family to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the Sherwell

firm in Nhill, and $355,000 from the Victorian Regional Growth fund via Hindmarsh Shire Council.

Mick and Rob turn the first sod.

Richard Williams prepares the foundation for the new building.

Ahrens erect the building at an amazing pace.

Funds for associated works were further augmented by $50,000 from Hindmarsh Shire Council to

make the Aerodrome fire suppression facilities compliant with Rural Fire Brigade regulations.

A surprise donation of $20,000 was made by Stefan Ahrens on Opening Day to help with the fitting

out of the Hangar. Due to the extraordinary generosity of the Ahrens Family, the Hangar was

named “Ahrens Hangar”.

Hindmarsh Shire obtained a State Government grant to seal the apron, as well as reseal the

runway, which added to the superb presentation of the Aerodrome facilities, including the new

Hangar.

OPENING DAY AT LAST!

The 23rd May 2014 dawned. Some clouds were noted, but no rain. Ground conditions were quite

wet due to good rains having fallen in the past weeks.

Flying conditions were not ideal and prevented aircraft coming from Swan Hill; however one

enterprising pilot flew his aircraft from Pinnaroo, South Australia, and another from Robe in South

Australia.

People came from everywhere – across Victoria, from Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and

New South Wales – approximately seven hundred and fifty (750) of them. The entire number of

pupils from the Lutheran School in Nhill attended with three teachers. I was particularly pleased

to welcome representatives of six (6) Air Museums namely Queensland, South Australia,

Moorabbin, Mildura, Werribee and Lake Boga.

The Official Party consisted of NAHC President Rob Lynch, Hindmarsh Shire Council (HSC) Mayor

Gersch, HSC CEO Tony Doyle, Hon. Hugh Delahunty, Member for Lowan who opened the Hangar,

and Mrs Delahunty, Mr Stefan Ahrens, Mr Bob Ahrens and Mrs Marj Ahrens.

Andrew Broad MP Federal Member for Mallee and Mrs Broad were in attendance.

The excitement was electrifying. Nothing on the scale of this building had happened on the Nhill

Aerodrome in seventy years. Inside the Hangar the Avro Anson was the back drop for the Official

Party and speechmakers. People commented on the excellent speeches, especially that of Mr Bob

Ahrens.

Hindmarsh Shire Council catered lunch for everyone.

NAHC later gave the Shire “The Loaves and Fishes

Award “for excellence in feeding the multitudes.

A painting donated to the NAHC by high profile artist

Bob Marchant formerly of Nhill titled “Early Morning

Training Flight over the Grampians” was on show,

together with interesting showcases of memorabilia.

A major point of interest was the Link Trainer. It is

one of the first flight simulators, used to train Second World War pilots. Restorer Neil Thomas sat

in the pilot’s seat and “took the crowd for an imaginary flight”. Many WW ll items have been

donated to the NAHC by interested people who are happy to have their ‘treasures’ on permanent

display in a secure place.

Bob Ahrens speaking at the

opening.

Mayor Gersch and Rob Lynch unveil the Ahrens sign.

A section of the crowd estimated at 750 persons.

Feeding the crowd was a huge job capably handled by the Shire staff.

I quote from a letter received by NAHC from Shire CEO Tony Doyle after the Opening – “Small

communities thrive when individuals and groups are as committed as the NAHC team and the

result is this incredible new asset that will not only support our tourism industry, but also preserve

a significant piece of the Shire’s history for many generations”.

VicRoads Heritage Signs:

Shire personnel assisted us to obtain and erect VicRoads roadside signage to the Aerodrome at

entrances to Nhill.

Aerodrome Toilet Upgrade:

A working partnership between the Shire and NAHC resulted in a much needed upgrade of the

toilet area in the Flight Office. Local builder Daryl Leyonhjelm renovated the interior to comply

with regulations, creating a new wheelchair accessible toilet area. Board members did the

painting and finishing off details.

The Heritage Walk:

John Deckert successfully applied to Horsham Sports and Community Club for $2000 funding to

purchase finishing material for the surface of the Heritage Walk at the Aerodrome. Len Creek is

the driving force in the Heritage Walk development, and Len estimates the length of the Walk at

385 metres.

War Heritage Touring Route:

We responded to a request from Horsham RSL sub branch to identify Nhill sites for potential listing

on the Wimmera Mallee Region war heritage touring route. We suggested the following sites –

War graves in the Commonwealth War Graves section in Nhill Cemetery, Monuments in

Goldsworthy Park, Nhill Aerodrome former WW ll RAAF Base (NAHC), the Heritage Walk (NAHC)

the Ahrens Hangar and memorabilia (NAHC), Avro Anson W2364 from RAAF WW ll 67 Squadron

(NAHC), the Bombing and Gunnery Range south of Nhill in the Little Desert (NAHC), the Soldiers’

Lounge in Nhill, and the Nhill Memorial Community Centre.

Communications:

We have amazing networks Australia wide and including overseas contacts.

The ‘Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre’ web page administered by Tony Carland keeps

readers informed, as does our electronic newsletter

‘The Nhill Anson”. John Deckert compiles the free electronic newsletter which is edited

by Joan Bennett. They produced five editions in the current reporting year.

Jean Roberts produced four editions of ‘The Bulletin’ focused on the Board and sub‐

committees, forward plans and inviting financial and in‐kind support.

Nhill Businesswoman Rebecca Dart established NAHC on Facebook. We look forward to

getting in touch with more young adults due to Rebecca’s initiative.

Emily Gladdis and Leonie Miller of the Nhill Free Press are always eager to print NAHC

news. The Nhill Free Press covers our major events.

The Hindmarsh Visitor Information Centre: I thank the Volunteers who run the

Information Centre for ‘selling’ The Shire attractions, including ours.

Acknowledgements:

Community support: This is an essential ingredient in our story. We continue to have a two

way conversation with the community because we respect its voice. I quote from Fleming –

“democracy is not a spectator sport, it is about participation of citizens. It is about being

involved.” The attitude of our community and their daily encouragement confirms our

commitment to this project; commemorating the service rendered to the nation by those who

served in the RAAF, and the significance of the RAAF Base at Nhill during the Second World

War.

The Ahrens Family: Stefan, Marj and Bob who are wonderfully helpful and generous people,

and without whom we could not have realized our dream of a new Hangar to house the Avro

Anson. We will miss those trips to Sheaoak Log SA. Ahrens project manager Adam Shanahan

worked in a productive relationship with the Shire and the NAHC.

I thank Jeff Fritsch, Ahrens Sherwell local identity and Sales manager for Ahrens in Victoria

and South Australia for always being available to help.

Hindmarsh Shire Council: Everyone was very supportive of the directions we wished to take

with the building project. Douglas Gowans, Director of Infrastructure Services was especially

helpful. I thank the Staff through CEO Tony Doyle for their courtesy and unfailing assistance

throughout the project and trust it will continue into the future. As community people we

found the process tedious, but we got there in the end.

Donors and Sponsors: These are too numerous to list in this report. Please be assured that we

couldn’t get along without your generous support – thank you.

The NAHC Association members: You are the ‘insiders’ and the Board is pleased to act on

your behalf. Your financial support through membership is very important, but isn’t the

whole story. Your membership is a measure of your commitment to the NAHC.

Board members: Every member brings unique skills, talents and abilities to the Board and

then we work together as a team. Our team continues to be focused on the best outcomes

for the Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre and our community. I value every one of you and what

you bring to the table, thank you.

I look forward to the challenges and achievements of another year.

Rob Lynch

President Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre Association Inc.

Graham Drage watches Mick Kingwill and Len Creek fit the first engine to the Avro Anson.

Joan Bennett shows Rob Lynch one of the features of Bob Marchant’s artwork.

TREASURER’S REPORT


Balance Sheet ‐ As of 30/06/2014

ASSETS

Account Balance

Cash and Bank Accounts

Cheque 10,403.65

IBD 1283 5,000.00

IBD 1555 0.00

IBD 2413 0.00

IBD 2958 10,582.89

IBD 7308 5,108.39

IBD 7420 15,325.16

IBD 8892 Ahrens 20,000.00

IBD 9282 0.00

IBD 9947 5,189.30

Float 0.00

Pay Pal 120.00

TOTAL Cash & Bank Account $71,729.39

TOTAL ASSETS $71,729.39

LIABILITIES & EQUITY

LIABILITIES

Other Liabilities

Memberships in Advance 1,020.00

TOTAL Other Liabilities 1,020.00

TOTAL LIABILITIES 1,020.00

EQUITY 70,709.39

TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY $71,729.39


Profit & Loss Statement – Year ending 30/06/2014

INCOME

Donations 74,195.00

Event Income

Food and Drink 2,275.00

Registrations 3,069.00

Sponsorship 700.00

TOTAL Event Income 6,044.00

General Income

Investment Interest 1,343.67

Living History project 60.00

Memberships 3,870.00

Merchandise sales 2,732.10

Museum Entry 145.00

Other 10.00

Sponsorship & Donations 1,794.00

TOTAL General Income 9,954.77

TOTAL INCOME 90,193.77

EXPENSES

Anson Expenses

Engines 234.34

Paint 25.70

Purchase of Plane items 528.50

Timber, metal, screws, bolts 1,312.03

Wiring, cables, fabric 1,036.38

TOTAL Anson Expenses 3,136.95

Event Expenses

Hire of Equipment 130.00

Other 1,790.40

Supplies‐ Tea Coffee 389.10

Supplies‐BBQ 378.50

TOTAL Event Expenses 2,688.00

General Expenses

Bank charges 11.10

Fees Charges Affiliations 820.40

Hall hire 100.00

Insurance 874.30

Other Expenses 50,560.00

Printing Stationery Postage 278.00

Promotion & Media 92.80

TOTAL General Expenses 52,736.60

Link Trainer 635.13

Museum

Displays and equip 5,258.27

Merchandise 3,185.00

TOTAL Museum 8,443.27

TOTAL EXPENSES 67,639.95

TOTAL OPERATING SURPLUS 22,553.82

POLICY AND PLANNING SUB‐COMMITTEE REPORT. 2013/14

The Board’s second Planning Workshop was held at the Returned Soldiers’ Rooms, Clarence Street, Nhill ‐ 21st November 2013, with the following objectives:

1. To identify the financial and in‐kind support necessary to ensure that the Heritage Centre becomes and remains of significant economic and social benefit to the Nhill and wider community through the coming years

2. To draft a Heritage Centre 2‐year Business Plan (December 2013 to November 2015) to be presented to the December 2013 NAHC Board meeting for discussion and endorsement:

a. detailing tasks, timelines and responsibilities necessary for a successful opening and operation of the Heritage Centre through to November 2015,

b. estimating expenses and income required through this period to:

i. ensure the financial viability of NAHC Inc., and

ii. firmly establish the Heritage Centre as a key asset and major contributor to the economic and social development and growth within the Shire of Hindmarsh and further afield, and

c. identifying strategic relationships necessary to support the Board in this important 2‐year period – and in

preparation for the major Celebration of Flight into Nhill in 2018/19.

3. To discuss initiatives and activities necessary to firmly establish the Heritage Centre as an active participant in the national and international network of Aviation Heritage.

The resulting Business Plan document was endorsed at the December 2013 Board meeting, addressing the needs, interests and aspiration of NAHC Inc through 2014 and 2015 – on our path to celebrating the Centenary of Flight into Nhill in 2019.

Eleven Strategic Priorities for the period 2014/15 are based on the active discussion at the Board’s Planning Workshop of 21st November 2013 – participants included Board and Sub‐committee Members, Director Corporate and Community Services and Director Infrastructure Services – Shire of Hindmarsh, and two Nhill business and community representatives. Apologies were received from the Shire of Hindmarsh CEO, one Nhill business and community representative, and one Board Member.

NAHC Inc Strategic Priorities – 2014 – 2015

1. Strong and effective collaboration and agreements with the Shire of Hindmarsh,

2. Aviation Centre/Hangar/Museum as a Tourist attraction,

3. Aviation Centre/Hangar/Museum as a Community Facility and Function Centre,

4. Aviation Centre/Hangar/Museum as an NAHC Inc operational centre,

5. NAHC Inc Tourist sites,

6. Aviation Heritage – from 1919 to 2019,

7. NAHC Inc Special events,

8. Promotions to attract visitors,

9. Promotion and publicity for NAHC Inc activities, events and plans,

10. Attracting financial and community support, and

11. NAHC Inc Organisational structure.

The Business Plan document sets out a schedule of tasks for 2014 and 2015 on pages 4 and 5, with the financial implications detailed on pages 8 to 18 to assist the Board in making decisions and setting their priorities. Pages 20‐27 of the Business Plan introduces each Strategic Priority – and highlights relevant discussion from the November 2013 Planning Workshop – in turn.

Jean Roberts, Convenor

ANNUAL AVRO ANSON REPORT 2013‐14

Another year gone and the progress moves onward with several giant steps taken.

First milestone for the year was in July 2013 when the nose section was completed and fitted with help from Kent Goldsworthy. It seemed to make the whole plane 20 feet longer.

The next milestone was the main plane sub frames manufactured painted and fitted. What came next was the marriage of the undercarriage to the main planes. Raymond Reichelt had previously restored the undercarriage. Watching the plane go from ground level to 9 foot in height was awesome, like a prehistoric monster rising from the ashes of extinction.

The fourth milestone was the moving of the Anson from the workshop to the aerodrome. This eventually happened after a mission impossible job was done taking an 18 foot plane through a 16 foot doorway. On a very early February Sunday morning with a following of dedicated aviation enthusiasts off we went to the Aerodrome where the Anson was placed temporarily in the original WW2 Bellman Hangar, “and how fitting”‐ the final milestone was the move in May to the new Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre alias the Ahrens Hanger. That’s my lot for 2013‐14

Mike Kingwill, Convenor

AERADIO SUB‐COMMITTEE REPORT 2014 The Aeradio sub‐committee of NAHC comprises Roger Meyer (convenor), John Deckert, Len Creek, Trevor Borgelt and David Williams. There has not been any progress at the Aeradio Station site in the past year due to pressure of other priorities, but we hope to make a practical start soon. Some more radio equipment has become available, and there is now a good selection with which to furnish the Aeradio operator’s room. The Civil Aviation Historical Society has located more site plans of Nhill aerodrome in its archive. The Sub‐Committee has produced some notes which may be of assistance when the Shire applies for funds to preserve the heritage buildings. We are most grateful to Jean Roberts for her advice (at my request) and suggested strategy for managing the project. Roger Meyer, Convenor

Edwin Reichelt Photo of the Aeradio Building at opening about 1937. Looking from the road toward Nhill township.

LINK TRAINER REPORT 2013‐14

Owing to the planned official opening of the new Ahrens Hangar in May this year, most effort has been put into trainer A13‐60. This trainer was the most complete relating to its components and in overall better condition. This is the unit to be returned to the owners from Murray Bridge once the other trainer A13‐54 is fully restored. In the meantime it is very handy having a complete unit available to match and manufacture missing parts. During the hangar opening we were able to demonstrate the trainer moving in its three axes, pitch, roll and direction, under its own power. That said, there is still a lot of work to be done. Power to the instruments and recorder has not yet been connected owing to the need to replace most of the wiring due to perished insulation. There is also considerable corrosion of most steel components.

All fabric has been removed from the fuselage and wings to facilitate repairs. Two pairs of wings had been supplied, but only one pair had been fitted with ailerons. Both pairs were structurally identical except for a wooden filler to hold the ailerons of the second set in streamline. However after a couple of simple cuts with a band saw and attachment of hinges and fittings the second wing set now has ailerons. It became obvious that these particular trainers had never been fitted with moving ailerons. This will require manufacture of some small components to be attached to the pilot's control stick. All pneumatic bellows, except for five small ones, have already been restored including the pneumatic turning motors for both trainers. Operation of these motors, each comprising of 20 double acting bellows, is visually fascinating, and a plastic cover was made so its operation can be observed. This will be fitted to the trainer to be owned by the Heritage Centre. The original cover is made from steel. We are still trying to locate missing components, though some have been sourced from the B24 project at Werribee. Others have been located in the USA and we await a response from them.

The two crab recorders, which trace the flight path of the trainer onto the instructors table, have been restored. We believe the radio navigation equipment contained in these tables is beyond restoration but will be made to look the part. Both electric turbine motors which provide pneumatic power have been restored, so too one electronic oscillator which powers the instruments. The other oscillator has failed components which may make it necessary to design and build a replacement unit. Once A13‐60 has been made to operate properly, if not completely restored, effort will be turned to the trainer to be retained by the Heritage Centre. An approach will be made to the Nhill Men's Shed for the manufacture of a missing cockpit canopy. The Men’s Shed have already built a seat missing from A13‐54. Manufacture of some components by Mick Kingwill is appreciated, including the weld repair and reinforcement of a heavy large cast iron support structure which was found to be cracked. It must be stated that considerable help, expertise and enthusiasm has been provided by the other team members, viz. John Deckert, Bill Day and Alan Conquer. We acknowledge the sponsored supply of plastic tubing and other bits from Westvic Spares, and the perspex cover from Murray Wills of Kaniva. Neil Thomas. Convenor of the Link Trainer Subcommittee

STUDEBAKER EVENT SUB-COMMITTEE

The Peter Andriske Memorial Studebaker Midway Rally was held this year over the long weekend in June 6th-9th.

The project was initiated by Ray Reichelt and the NAHC formed a subcommittee, made up of Rob Lynch (Chair) Julie Colbert (Minutes Secretary) Maureen and Rod Warrick, Trevor Borgelt, Graeme Ussing, Ian Meek, Brian Nuske and Ray Reichelt.

The weekend consisted of the arrival on Friday afternoon

- Shared Breakfasts over the 3 days - A run on Saturday to the Mallee Pioneer Museum including a car display - Evening meals at the Union Hotel for the 3 nights - A presentation after dinner on

Saturday night put on by Jo Ussing of Westprint Maps

- A run out to Rod and Maureen Warrick’s ‘Inverness Motors’ with morning tea provided by the Warricks.

- A Show ‘n’ Shine over lunch on Sunday at the Nhill Aerodrome (this being the main event). This family day included Tiger Moth and other Scenic Flights, face painting, a raffle, BBQ lunch and the NAHC Avro Anson Project.

The Sunday event was well attended with over 300 people passing through the gate and over $4000 being raised for the NAHC.

Some of the places the Studebaker drivers came from were; Lameroo, Semaphore, Langwarrin, Doncaster, Pasadena and as far away as Paynesville.

Whimpey Reichelt’s ‘best at show’ Studebaker. (Studebaker Club Photo)

The Studebaker members from both the SA and Victorian clubs appreciated the efforts put in by the Nhill community and named it as ‘the best Midway Rally so far’.

Since the event there have been great write-ups in both the ‘Holdens of Age’ newsletter and the Official Studebaker newsletter for Australia including a great range of photo’s as well.

The sub-committee was overwhelmed with the generosity of donors, sponsors and volunteers who contributed to the weekend.

Certificates of Appreciation and letters have been sent to the sponsors and a review was held with the volunteers (A report of that review has already been received by the NAHC).

In finishing up, there is no doubt that this event would not have got off the ground without the vision and drive of Raymond Reichelt and we thank him for his efforts.

Overall we believe the event was well received and successful with the NAHC receiving good exposure during the weekend.

Thank you to all involved. Whimpey (Ray) Reichelt, Convenor

Photos on this page courtesy of the Nhill Free Press

NHILL AIR SHOW 2015

Celebrating Hospitality and Innovation

Nhill Air Show

(a sub-committee of Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre) PO Box 32, Nhill Vic 3418

Convenor: Andrew Kube 0439 424 112 Secretary: Janine Grover 0438 561 337 Email: [email protected]

At a meeting of Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre Inc., I requested to the board that an air show be organised and hosted at the Nhill Aerodrome in 2015 to celebrate the hospitality and innovation that was displayed during WWII. The air show would also commemorate 75 years since the RAAF training base was established at the Nhill aerodrome. Given the success of previous fly-ins the board was supportive of the idea and the Nhill Air Show sub-committee was formed. The sub-committee has met twice prior to 30 June 2014 and planning for the Nhill Air Show 2015 is well underway. The sub-committee consists of the following members; Andrew Kube – Convenor Janine Grover – Secretary Trevor Borgelt – Treasurer Brian Creek, Len Creek, Rob Lynch Key areas of responsibility have been discussed and members and associates have elected to be in charge of certain key areas. These are listed as follows;

Publicity, artwork, promotion, branding, webpage and face book Catering Funding, sponsorship Logistics (car parking, insurance, risk assessments, volunteers, marshalling) Site preparation Feature aircraft Flying program Saturday evening events Ground program (non aircraft related entertainment – e.g. Market stalls, displays,

music) On behalf of the sub-committee I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre Inc. board for its ongoing support both of the sub-committee and the Nhill Air Show 2015 event. Andrew Kube Convenor, Nhill Air Show

THE YEAR IN PHOTOS

Construction and opening of the Ahrens Hangar was the main project for the year.

The second most important project for the year was the moving of the Avro Anson.

After moving the Anson Mick gets his shed back for the

first time in five years. Moving the plane was a day

when a small celebration was in order. Instant coffee.

Photo: J Goldsworthy

1 2014 annual report cover - irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com · clarence street, nhill, on thursday 9th...

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