Australian Heritage Festival – Benalla Airfield History Presentation

A presentation will be given on the history of the Benalla Airfield and its contribution to the war effort during World War 2, the life of service members on the Station, and a presentation of the historical exhibits present in the Museum. Members will be available to facilitate and answer questions, and close up activities around the Museum’s air assets will be available.

It will also cover the Airfield’s outstanding contribution to the Empire Air Training Scheme, involving the establishment of the Elementary Flying Training Schools (EFTS) and specifically No 11 EFTS at RAAF Station Benalla. The presentation will explore the establishment of the EATS and how Australia contributed to the Air War in Europe from 1941 to 1945.

A brief history of the Station and the personnel station at Benalla will also be provided, including the vitally important contribution that women made to Benalla and the general war effort.

The session will also cover the many exhibits the Museum has and information will be made available to understand more about the exhibits and their contribution to Aviation history.

Visitors will be able to get “up close and personal” with some of the aircraft they have, and “Top Gun” photo opportunities will be available.

Refreshments and merchandise will also be available.