MEMBERS CORNER
Taking history to s t h g i e h soaring new B
ESIX Watpac helps boost CQ tourism with award-winning Qantas museum project.
In the heart of Central West Queensland, a Boeing 747 and a stunning, rippled roof provide the canvas as the history of Australia’s airline is played out through an immersive light and sound experience that can only be described as extraordinary. This spectacle is the result of the work of the team at BESIX Watpac, with the Qantas Founders Museum Airpark Project at Longreach honoured as Project of the Year and winning the Tourism and Leisure Facilities over $10 million category at the 2021 Central 32 | Master Builder
Queensland Housing & Construction Awards.
The museum tells the story of Qantas, from its beginnings in outback Queensland through to present day. The new Airpark Enclosure and hi-tech Luminescent Longreach experience were a long-held dream of the Qantas Foundation Memorial Ltd Trust, the custodian of the historic infrastructure, memorabilia and aircraft at the site. The project has created a new experience for the tourism industry in the region, as well as delivering additional economic and community benefits. Project Manager, BESIX Watpac Senior Contracts Administrator Mitch Wight, said
The Trust identified the need several years ago for a roof to protect the aircraft from the outback sun and reduce the need for regular expensive maintenance. “One of the things they were having issues with is that the planes themselves cost millions to repaint – the 747 in particular is really expensive due to its size” Mitch said. “The Muesum was able to secure funding from the Commonwealth government for the main roof structure, and then the Queensland government funded the light show element of the project. “They wanted to have a drawcard, so that when you’re flying or driving into Longreach, it’s the first thing you see.” The two-stage project saw BESIX Watpac construct the Noel Robinson-designed 8,072m² Airpark Roof, Viewing Deck and Biobox supporting services, including the backbone infrastructure for the light show. The Buchan Group completed the active data equipment, fit-off of the projectors and speakers, and the sound and images.
