A HISTORY OF AVIATION
A long history in aviation combined with an ideal flying climate makes Temora an excellent place for all types of aviation activities. The town’s history of pilot training began during the Second World War and continues today.
World War II
In 1941, due to Temora’s favourable climate and geography, the airport was controlled by the Royal Australian Air Force, and the No. 10 Elementary Flying Training School (TENEFTS) was established to provide initial flight training for pilot graduates. This became the largest and longest lived of the schools established under the Empire Air Training Scheme, with more than 2500 pilots graduating between 1941 and 1946, and a peak of 97 Tiger Moth aircraft used for flying training.
Post-War Recreational Aviation
In 1946, following the war, local veterans and pilots founded the Temora Aero Club in the Bellman Hangar. With the support of Temora Shire Council, club members and other private citizens (particularly 1998 Australian Aerobatics Champion, David Lowy) the airport facilities have continually been developed and improved. Temora Airport has developed a strong reputation in the recreational aviation community for providing excellent facilities for gliding, parachuting and flying. The airport regularly hosts a range of aviation events, drawing visitors from around Australia and the globe.
Temora Airpark Estate
Temora’s aviation community was further strengthened when, in the mid 1990’s, Temora Shire Council began development of the Temora Airpark Estate, offering house and hangar, and commercial lots with direct access to taxiways and the runways.
Following the popularity of the initial stage, three further stages were completed and the estate now comprises over 90 lots. Residents of the Airpark Estate have formed a strong community of aviation enthusiasts who provide a talented resource base of volunteers for the Aviation Museum and local recreational flying group, Temora Flyers Inc.
Temora Aviation Museum
The Temora Aviation Museum was established in 1999 and has become a world-class attraction with arguably the finest collection of flying historic aircraft in the Southern Hemisphere.
The museum is a major tourist drawcard and a key focal point of the Temora Airport – with visitors flocking to see the impeccably-maintained military aircraft, all of which have historical significance to Australia. The Temora Aviation Museum also hosts a series of aircraft showcase days throughout the year, where a selection of the museum’s aircraft are flown, allowing visitors to experience the unique sights and sounds in close proximity to these rare machines. The museum also hosts a major biennial airshow, known as Warbirds Downunder, where all aircraft are demonstrated. The show attracts around 20,000 visitors to Temora.