As part of its 100 years of Australian manufacturing celebrations in 2021, Lysaght has increased its community engagement platform through the launch of its ‘Community First Grant Program’.

Established with the aim of assisting local community groups, organisations, or individuals, the initiative involved Lysaght branches identifying worthy projects within their region, to which Lysaght could contribute LYSAGHT® steel building products.

One organization that recently benefited from the Community First Grant Program was the Far North Queensland Aviation Museum. The Museum was established in 2018 as a community-based, not-for-profit operation with the view of growing local tourism and community facilities while also undertaking aircraft restoration work.

The museum also provides an important educational role and currently hosts students ranging in ages from 14 to 24, who under the guidance of volunteer engineers are developing their knowledge and skills by restoring a former Royal Australian Air Force Dakota C-47 (more commonly known as a DC3).

As a Lysaght Community First Grant Program recipient, the Far North Queensland Aviation Museum has received a quantity of TRIMDEK® cladding, LOUVRESCREEN® and NEETASCREEN® fencing, which is being used to provide shelter and protection at the site while also increasing security.

Commercial airline pilot and Far North Queensland Aviation Museum President, Brendan Kent, said he appreciated Lysaght’s support on the project.

“A lot of the region’s aviation history is hidden away in people’s sheds and hangars, so establishing the museum allows us to make these exhibits available to the public,” Brendan said.

“It’s also developing a tourist attraction for the Mareeba region, which doesn’t have a major tourist drawcard.

“The steel building products that Lysaght has donated have helped to provide more protection from the sun and rain within our restoration area – it’s an important section of the site’s ongoing development plans, so we’re very grateful to Lysaght for the materials we received.”

Lysaght branch manager, Cairns & Darwin, Jean Cullen, said that the Far North Queensland Aviation Museum was undertaking important work on several levels, and was a worthy beneficiary of the Program.

“Aside from helping to maintain Australia’s aviation history and increasing tourism to the area, the Museum also plays a vital community role,” Jean said.

“It’s fast becoming a meeting place where aviation and history enthusiasts can attend, get involved and develop practical skills. It’s also extremely inclusive, hosting people across a broad range of ages and community backgrounds.

“The Lysaght Cairns & Darwin branches are really pleased to have assisted the Museum to take the next step in its development,” Jean said.

For further information on the Far North Queensland Aviation Museum, visit: fnqam.com.au