STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Mr YOUNG (Longman—Second Deputy Speaker) (13:48): The Caboolture Warplane Museum is now facing possible closure, and this is a real concern for our community. This museum is a living piece of Longman's heritage, and we can't afford to lose it. Since 1995, the volunteers at Caboolture have kept Australia's aviation history alive.

Anyone who has stepped inside Hangar 101 knows it's not a typical museum. Visitors can sit in the cockpit of a Huey, stand beside the Douglas C-47 Dakota that once carried dignitaries and explore artefacts from World War I, World War II and the Vietnam War. It's immersive and hands on, and it reminds us that history is something you can feel, not just read about.

The museum also offers joy flights, and I've been up in a T-28 Trojan myself. I am always mindful that behind each aircraft is a group of volunteers who restores, maintains and shares the stories of our Anzacs and pioneers. The museum's lease is expiring, and the team must relocate, secure an extension or find a new home.

As a non-government organisation relying on admissions, donations and grants, they cannot do this alone. If we lose this museum, we lose more than a building; we lose a vital link to our past and a place where future generations can connect with our aviation story. I've created a petition, and I urge all levels of government and our wider community to help ensure that the Caboolture Warplane Museum has a future.