F-111 to be centrepiece of aviation museum

IT'S official: the Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome Heritage Aviation Association will get the F-111 fighter jet it has sought for two years to form the centrepiece of its aviation museum at the Evans Head Aerodrome.

The decision to loan to the fighter to the museum was announced by Defence Materials Minister Jason Clare on October 4.

The museum will receive one of six retired fighters expected to be delivered to aviation museums across the country in mid-2013.

Evans Head Air Park head Peter Lynch greeted the decision with glee and said the fighter display would be a major drawcard for the area.

"It's been a big team effort," he said.

"We are very excited that our request for one of the retired F-111s has been successful and soon visitors to the centre will have access to this important piece of Australian aviation history.

"The aircraft will form the centrepiece of an expanding range of exhibits planned for this important community and tourist facility."

Aviation association president Rod Kinnish also warmly welcomed the announcement.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for Evans Head and heritage aviation throughout Australia," Mr Kinnish said.

The fighter will be displayed alongside other aircraft at the museum, including a MiG15 and an ex-RAAF Tiger Moth.