On Saturday, 15^th April, the Queensland Air Museum, Caloundra Qld, hosted a Women in Aviation Open Day that provided a unique opportunity to inspire, educate and recruit girls and women interested in aviation careers.

The Queensland Air Museum showcases Australian aviation history, with over 80 restored aircraft on display and dozens of aero engines. The day was hosted by a wide range of personnel with varied and long experience in aviation.

One of the highlights was the discussion panel with speakers covering a wide range of aviation experiences, including

• Julie Hammer AM CSC – Air Vice-Marshal (Ret’d)
• Lauren Jones – CASA/Wings Young Aviator of the Year
• Naomi McQueen – Air Traffic Controller
• Deborah Lawrie – Australia’s first Female Airline Pilot
• Anita Moore – Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service

For those who couldn’t attend, the panel discussion can also be found online here.

The Australian Air League was invited to participate and cadets and officers from Squadrons across southeast Queensland attended and had a great day with some cool and unique experiences. Squadron Sergeant Biggs from Forest Lake Squadron was invited to start the engine of the Max Holste MH.1521 Broussard – a 1950s French six-seat utility monoplane, providing appropriately loud background noise to those in attendance!

All those who attended were privileged to hear the stories of some influential women in our modern Aviation industry who have worked hard to pave the way for women to venture into any area of Aviation they desire.