Vampire Aircraft On Display At HARS Parkes Aviation Museum

The Forbes Vampire, ‘the aircraft on a pole by the lake’ is a much loved icon for Forbes and attracts aviation enthusiasts travelling the Newell Highway, to see the aircraft.

The aircraft has recently been refurbished and restored to its former glory by Forbes Council and volunteers from the town.

Now, there is a de Havilland Vampire dual seat version on display at the HARS Parkes Aviation Museum, that you can get up close to and learn about the history and development of this unique aircraft.

The Vampire flew at the end of WW2 and adopted the design influence of the de Hav­illand Mosquito the ‘Wooden Wonder’ that the fuselage pod is constructed of timber.

This design was enormously strong but it was not destined to survive for so long outside. This feature was the subject of the restoration of the Forbes Vampire.

The Museum has over 15 aircraft on display that range from a 4 engine Orion surveillance aircraft that took part in the search for MH370 to a replica of the Red Baron WW1 German fighter and aircraft engines from early jet trainers to a Boeing 747.

Should you have an interest in aviation, preserving history, hands on restorations or tour guiding and would like to volunteer, you can call the museum or speak to any one of our volunteers on duty about the op­portunity.

The HARS Parkes Aviation Museum is open from 9.30am to 3.30pm on Thursdays and Sundays. Admission is only $30 for a family of 4, adults $15, children under 16 $5. Eftpos is also available. For more infor­mation call Mike on 0418 473 175.