The RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre

If your Brisbane Kid or another member of your family has an interest in planes or military aviation, the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre is a must see. Located on the RAAF base at Amberley and about a 40 minute drive from the Brisbane CBD, the museum offers an inexpensive and educational day out.

Things to do at the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre

Showcasing the incredible history of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), the Heritage Centre has displays that include Sabre and Mirage fighter jets, a flawless WWII Jeep, Sioux and Iroquois helicopters and a Caribou airlifter. The museum pays particular attention to the history of aviation at the RAAF Amberley base and the RAAF’s role in South East Queensland in war and peace time. The ever-growing historical collection is housed in two aircraft hangars at the RAAF Amberley base and does change from time to time, as exhibits are restored and brought in or returned after a loan period.

A group of passionate reservists and volunteers are on hand to guide visitors through the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre’s displays, passing on fascinating stories and a priceless educational experience with every visit. Every single one of these enthusiasts is involved in the research, restoration and display of the aircraft and the items that make up the collection. One of the best things about the displays at the Heritage Centre is that you can touch almost everything. There’s even the opportunity to sit in the cockpit of an F-111. Photos are always welcome and highly encouraged within the display hangars, so your Brisbane Kids can capture their aviation adventures when you visit.

Facilities at the RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre

There is a small café on site at the Heritage Centre for coffee and light snacks. A Souvenir and Gift shop offers a large selection of military aviation souvenirs, including model planes, DVDs and books, and clothing. All proceeds and donations go straight back into the Heritage Centre to fund restoration projects and the development of new displays.

The RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre welcomes visitors from 9 am to 3 pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and on the third Sunday of each month (closed in December & January). Free entry makes it a fantastic outing for all ages, though donations are always appreciated to support the centre’s work. There’s also a Souvenir and Gift Shop on site – just remember to bring cash as card facilities aren’t available.

Group tours can be arranged outside regular opening times by prior booking. All visits require a booking, which can be made by completing the Amberley Heritage Centre Booking Request Form and emailing at least seven days before your planned visit.

For the popular Sunday Open Days, bookings are managed through Eventbrite. These close at 4 pm, 11 days prior to each event, so it’s worth planning ahead.

The RAAF Base Amberley is a secure flying base and individual vehicles are not permitted to enter the base. Public Parking is located at the RAAF Amberley Bowls Club car park, with shuttle buses departing for the Heritage Centre every 20 minutes.

The RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre is located on the RAAF Base Amberley, Southern Amberley Road, Amberley QLD 4306.

For further information, free call: 1800 623 306 or visit www.raafamberleyheritage.gov.au/visit-the-centre.

While you are in the area, check out some of the fantastic playgrounds that Ipswich has to offer, like Bob Gamble Park, East Ipswich Honour Playground or the awesome Queens Park.