Visitors to the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens are invariably impressed by the quaint English detached cottage that holds pride of place next to the Hinkler Hall of Aviation.
Few are aware that the home was the residence in England of Bundaberg’s famed pioneer aviator Bert Hinkler and that it took inspiration and dedication by a committed band of enthusiasts to see the house brought brick by brick from Southampton to its present site.
On Saturday, June 14 Hinkler House will celebrate the 30th anniversary of its relocation from England.
Bundaberg Regional Council Mayor, Cr Mal Forman said the feat to relocate the home to Bundaberg was nothing short of astonishing. “It was based on an improbable idea and funded through the persistent, gritty determination of people with visionary ideas.”
“Hinkler’s house looks as if it was always meant to be on this site in the Botanic Gardens,” Cr Forman said.
Council’s Economic Development portfolio spokesperson, Cr Greg Banes said Hinkler House, Hinkler Hall of Aviation and the Botanic Gardens precinct was developing as stunning addition to the must see attractions in the Bundaberg Region.
“This 30th birthday celebration planned for the house is a perfect opportunity to recall the work, effort and ingenuity of a small group of people who had a magnificent obsession with the project.”
”It is appropriate that this house now sits in Hinkler’s home town as a constant reminder of the man and his achievements.”
Cr Barnes said many of the people originally involved with the project would be attending the birthday celebrations. “However, this is an occasion for everyone in the Bundaberg region to come along and commemorate our own genuine hometown hero and to relive the story of how Bert’s home was relocated.”
“The celebrations will commence at 9am and run through until noon. Music, a couple of select stalls, croquet on the lawns and a chance for everyone to turn out in period dress representing the Great Gatsby era should make for a day with a difference.”
Cr Barnes said there would be amusements for the children and an opportunity for them to join the Junior Aviator’s Club. “I’m certain the children will love to meet our new Hinkler Hall of Aviation hero, Captain Daring who will encourage them to join the Aviator’s Club.
“Our Botanic Gardens are looking a treat, Hinkler’s house is in pristine order and there will be a special announcement regarding the Hinkler Hall of Aviation,
“Bring the family out, there’s a huge community birthday cake to share and it’s just a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the achievements of Bundaberg’s favourite son and to enjoy one of the truly spectacular tourist precincts of the region.”
ENDS