Like many of Bundaberg’s flood ravaged premises the Hinkler Hall of Aviation, located in the Botanic Gardens, has endured a measured path to recovery.
The good news is that the Hall of Aviation and adjoining Hinkler House are ready to resume roles as one of the Bundaberg Region’s premier tourist attractions.
Facility manager, Colleen Foglia was beaming as she announced this week that the Hinkler attractions would be officially re-opened to the public on Monday, June 3.
“I have to admit the emotions are much more upbeat than they were when we inspected the facilities after flood waters had receded. We were allowed back into the Hinkler Hall of Aviation on February 4 and I was absolutely heartbroken by what I saw. The mud, the dirty water, the general state of destruction of a place that was a pride and joy to all staff who worked here was very difficult to face,” she said.
Colleen said it took a huge effort on the part of staff and trades people to get the venue back to operational capability over the intervening four months. “Hinkler House was generally untouched although we took the opportunity to carry out needed repairs and to give Bert’s house a thorough cleaning.”
“The Hall of Aviation sustained damage from flooding which virtually wrecked the electrical work throughout the venue,’ Colleen said.
Bundaberg Regional Council’s Economic Development portfolio spokesperson, Cr. Greg Barnes said it was great to have the Hinkler Hall of Aviation and other attractions like Fairymead House, Café 1928 the Chinese Gardens and to a certain extent the Australian Sugar Cane Railway back in operation in the Botanic Gardens.
“All these attractions are essential to create a total experience for visitors to the Botanic Gardens,” Cr. Barnes said.
“Congratulations are in order for staff and volunteers who played such a vital role in giving unstintingly of their time to get the Gardens and its attractions almost back to full operation.”
While the Hinkler attractions will be open from Monday, June 3 with half price admission applying all week, an official opening is planned for Saturday, June 8 with a family fun day. Full details will be available soon on Council’s website at www.bundaberg.qld.gov.au and Facebook page.