Qantas Founders Museum
If you’ve ever wanted to peek inside the cockpit of a Boeing 747, walk the wing of a commercial aircraft, or chat with a former pilot, head to the Qantas Founders Museum. The non-profit museum offers exhibits about the history of Australia’s largest airline as well as fascinating insights into Australia’s aviation industry.
The Basics
The Quantas Founders Museum’s interactive exhibits illuminate the history and heritage of Qantas airlines. Highlights of the museum’s sizable collection of aircraft include a PBY Catalina Flying Boat, a Douglas DC-3, a Boeing 707, and a Boeing 747. There are also replicas of early aircraft, such as the De Havilland DH-61 Giant Moth. Explore the museum on your own, or join one of the themed tours that let you explore the planes and talk with a former Qantas captain.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Qantas Founders Museum is popular with aircraft enthusiasts and families.
Visitors looking for a deal can purchase tickets that combine admission to the Quantas museum and to Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame.
Children under 5 enter for free..
Some exhibitions and tours take place outdoors, so dress appropriately.
The museum’s McGinness’ Restaurant offers breakfast and lunch.
The museum is largely wheelchair accessible, but access is limited in some areas.
How to Get There
The Qantas Founders Museum is located in the National Heritage-listed Qantas Hangar in Longreach, about two miles (three kilometers) from the center of town. There is plenty of free parking on site.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily all year round. Guided tours run several times a day, but advance booking is highly recommended.
Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame
After visiting the Qantas Founders Museum, head to the nearby Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre. This museum is devoted to the stories of Australia’s explorers, stockmen, and Aboriginal communities, and lets visitors experience outback life, watch live horseback demonstrations, meet Aussie stockmen, and even tuck into a traditional Aussie barbecue dinner.
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