A ceremonial sod turning marked the start of construction of the $6.9 million Hinkler Hall of Aviation in Bundaberg on March 9.

The tourism attraction, due to open in early 2008, will celebrate the groundbreaking achievements of aviation pioneer Bert Hinkler, one of Queensland’s greatest heroes.

Upon its completion, Hinkler Hall, with its size and scope, will be a major visitor drawcard for the Wide Bay Region.

The Hall, to be built in the shape of a giant aeroplane wing, will be large enough to house five of the planes that Bert flew, including four replicas and one part original plane.

It will also present memorabilia from Bert’s amazing life – tracing his early years in Bundaberg to his role as a record-breaking international hero.

The Queensland Government has supported this project since its inception in 2001, and provided initial funding of $485,000 through the Millennium Arts Regional Program - a statewide initiative to upgrade and expand arts and cultural facilities.

In 2006, the Premier announced a further funding boost of $1.5 million to help make the project a reality.

Constructing a facility large enough to house five planes has always been a dream for the Bundaberg community.

The Hinkler Hall of Aviation is a joint initiative of the Beattie Government, the Commonwealth, Bundaberg City Council and the Hinkler House Memorial Museum and Research Association Inc.

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