Construction officially underway at Qantas Founders Museum

The $11.3 million project is the first of a two-stage process to create a new light and sound experience at the Qantas Founders Museum.

Watpac Managing Director, Martin Monro, and Watpac Construction Queensland State Manager, Drew Brockhurst, joined Qantas Founders Museum Chairman, John Vincent, Federal Member for Maranoa, David Littleproud, and NRA CO-LAB Architects Managing Director, Noel Robinson, in turning the first sod for the project. 

Qantas Founders Museum Chairman, John Vincent, said it would be the biggest project that the museum had ever undertaken.

“This ceremony marks the commencement of the Luminescent Longreach Project and a new era for Qantas Founders Museum by creating unique experiences for our visitors to enjoy, further employment and contribution to our community and continued growth for our museum,” Mr Vincent said.

Designed by NRA-CO-LAB Architects, Stage 1 will involve the construction of an 8072m2 roof cover over the Museum’s aircraft including the Boeing 747, Boeing 707, Catalina Flying Boat and Super Constellation. 

A viewing platform 9.5 metres above ground level, lighting for night tours, footpaths, landscaping and fencing will also be delivered. 

The project is expected to boost museum visitor numbers by 33 per cent and that visitors will extend their visit time to the Longreach region.

The project is anticipated for completion in May 2020.