Aviation Heritage Museum
The RAAFA Aviation Heritage Museum in Bull Creek, Western Australia, offers an extensive insight into Australia’s aviation history, showcasing both military and civilian aircraft. Visitors can explore a collection of restored planes, interactive exhibits, and hands-on experiences that bring the story of flight vividly to life. The museum is open seven days a week, from 10 am to 4 pm, and caters to aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
RAAFA Bull Creek WA
Located at 2 Bull Creek Drive, Bull Creek, the museum is managed by the Royal Australian Air Force Association (RAAFA) Western Australia. Its mission is to preserve aviation history while providing engaging and educational experiences. The museum’s collection features iconic aircraft such as the Avro Lancaster, Supermarine Spitfire Mk 22, Consolidated Catalina, Douglas Dakota C-47, and the Tornado GR4.
The Avro Lancaster NX622, a key highlight, is one of only 17 surviving Lancasters worldwide.
Visitors can view its four Rolls-Royce Merlin engines, the bomb bay, and crew stations, gaining insight into the aircraft’s role as the backbone of RAF Bomber Command during the Second World War. Expert-led tours allow visitors to step inside the aircraft, examine its interior, and understand the challenges faced by crews on combat missions.
The Douglas Dakota C-47 is another essential exhibit. Known for its reliability and versatility, the Dakota served in every major engagement in WWII, including the D-Day operations in Normandy and supply missions over the Himalayas. The museum’s C-47, serial A65-124, preserves its original configuration, providing a genuine glimpse into military aviation history. Guided tours allow visitors to explore the cockpit and cargo hold, learning about the aircraft’s operational roles.
The museum also features the Consolidated PBY Catalina, an amphibious flying boat used by the RAAF for coastal patrol, bombing, and rescue missions during WWII. The PBY Catalina’s long-range capabilities and versatility made it crucial for operations across the Pacific. Visitors can view the PBY-5A variant up close, observing its twin Pratt & Whitney engines, cockpit layout, and defensive positions.
Modern aviation is represented by the Tornado GR4, the only one displayed in Australia. Gifted by the RAF, the Tornado showcases advanced avionics, night vision systems, and ground-attack capabilities. Its arrival highlights the museum’s ongoing dedication to preserving significant aircraft from all eras.
Bull Creek Aviation Museum
The Aviation Heritage Museum offers interactive experiences, including the Bomber Command Virtual Reality, which immerses visitors in a simulated Lancaster bombing mission, and the Macchi Jet Virtual Reality. The museum also caters to young visitors with the Young Aviators Area, where hands-on activities encourage learning about flight principles and aircraft mechanics.
Volunteering is a vital part of the museum’s operations, with over 100 volunteers supporting the preservation, restoration, and educational programs. Opportunities range from on-site roles to assisting at the museum’s nearby storage facility in Willetton. No prior aviation experience is required, though knowledge of aircraft can be applied to various projects.
