Joint release with SA Minister for Education
A re-elected Morrison Government, together with the Marshall Liberal Government will deliver $4 million to protect and preserve South Australia’s historic ‘Vickers Vimy’ aircraft, made famous for being the first ever aircraft to fly between Australia and England, almost 100 years ago.
Minister for Trade Tourism and Investment, Simon Birmingham said this is a major win for South Australia’s cultural heritage, for tourism, and will serve to educate generations to come of our state’s pioneering and aviation history.
“This funding will ensure the safe and careful transfer of the Vickers Vimy to a prime location at the new Adelaide airport terminal, where it will be displayed prominently in a purpose-built facility to be viewed and admired as a symbol of courage and ingenuity.
“This year marks the centenary of the epic 1919 Air Race where South Australian brothers Sir Ross and Sir Keith Smith made world aviation history when they became the first to fly between Australia and England in less than 30 days.
“Our vision, with the support of the Marshall Liberal Government, is to restore the Vickers Vimy to its former glory for all to see and enjoy,” said Minister Birmingham.
South Australian Minister for Education, John Gardner said, “We are pleased to be committing this funding, alongside a re-elected Morrison Government, to ensure this important piece of history can be on display in a setting befitting its status.”
“The historic flight of the Vickers Vimy undoubtedly ranks in the highest echelons of human achievement.
“All South Australians should be proud of this remarkable piece of aviation history, and the remarkable people behind it.
“Moving the plane will allow us to showcase this enduring symbol of our country’s contribution to the world’s aviation history in a prominent location that will be seen by millions of tourists and business travellers alike, not to mention many South Australians, as they transit through the airport.
“The State Government is also supporting the History Trust to deliver a range of initiatives this year, celebrating and commemorating the centenary of the flight,” said Minister Gardner.
The Morrison Government is committed to enhancing South Australia’s cultural attractions and most recently announced a new Aboriginal Art and Cultures Gallery at Lot Fourteen, $9 million towards the construction of The Heysens at Hahndorf to create a dedicated space to display the Hans and Nora Heysen collections, while also committing $3 million to build a new visitor centre at Carrick Hill, one of Australia’s most intact 20th century house, museum and garden venues.
“Important projects such as the preservation of the historically significant ‘Vickers Vimy’, is only made possible because of the Morrison Government’s plan for a stronger economy,” said Minister Birmingham.