Preserving aviation history

By Helen Tatchell

Pegasus – the name means horse and is also the name of a rewards promotion gift to a local not for profit community organisation.
The Australian Gliding Museum at the Bacchus Marsh aerodrome were given a funding boost from Stoney’s Club in Maddingley, one of 11 Pegasus Leisure group venues, that is supported by the MRC Foundation; a philanthropic arm of Melbourne Racing Club.
An oversized cheque for $1000 was gladly received by David Goldsmith from the museum.
“We have three gliding clubs here, Geelong, Melbourne and Beaufort and after losing our major sponsor last year, this donation is gratefully received.
“Currently we are surviving on memberships and donations. We have 63 gliders in the collection and some we have returned to flying condition, with vintage gliders being restored,” he said.
“The money we have received from the MRC Foundation will help us progress and assist us with repairs, restorations and the preservation of the museum. We have a workshop, paint shop and the museum with potential for a fabric workshop.”
To restore gliders to original condition, plywood and a polyester/synthetic cloth is used.
Kate O’Sullivan from the Pegasus Leisure Group congratulated the gliding club and was pleased to support their organisation.
“You give to the community and the Foundation is just another way of applying for funds.
“Stoney’s Club has just undergone a major renovation with close to three quarters of a million dollars spent to provide a community meeting place.”

The Australian Gliding Museum is located at 20 Jensz Rd, Parwan and is open by arrangement – 0419 587 208 (bookings). The cost of an annual subscription is $20 and donations can be sent to: Australian Gliding Museum, P O Box 2536, Mount Waverly Vic. 3149