19 March 2021
Tourism in Longreach will soar to new heights, with the official opening of the Qantas Founders Museum new Airpark Roof and Luminescent Longreach light show.
Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said the project, which was fully funded by the Australian Government with $11.3 million, will ensure the region’s cultural heritage and the story of Qantas is preserved and told to future generations.
“This impressive project has been a long time coming, and what better time to launch the museum upgrades than during the Qantas Centenary celebrations this year,” Mr Littleproud said.
“It’s fitting that we continue to enhance the legacy of Qantas here in Longreach, because this is where the company got its wings back in 1920 and aviation still plays a very important role in Outback Queensland today whether it’s for travel or business.
“This is an important project, not only for the Longreach community, but for the whole of outback Queensland, as it will create an exciting new tourism experience and attract more visitors to the bush.
“More tourism dollars flowing through our communities will help to boost business, create more jobs and increase the opportunity for investment, which will support our region well into the future.
“I’m proud to see this project completed and I look forward to witnessing the new Luminescent Longreach light show for myself.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government’s $11.3 million investment in community infrastructure would provide long term benefits to the Longreach region.
“The construction of a more than 8,000m2 roof will do far more than just house four of the museums aircraft, it will also double as a canvas for a lighting show that shares the history of both Qantas and Outback Queensland,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“By supporting 109 jobs in construction and creating multiple ongoing positions following completion, this project will help bring economic prosperity to Longreach for many years to come.”
This project was fully funded by the Australian Government with $11.3 million under the Community Development Grants programme.
