If you’re a nostalgia nut or interested in Australian aviation and transport history, then the Sir Reginald Ansett Transport Museum is a must-see. Located in Hamilton, Victoria, in an original aircraft hangar, the museum showcases the legacy of Reg Ansett, the founder of Ansett Airways and a true tourism pioneer. Whether you’re a transport buff or just curious about how one man built an Australian transport empire, this museum will take you on a trip through Ansett Airlines’ rapid rise and impact on Australian road and air travel.
The Reg Ansett Story
Reg Ansett was a man who turned a one-vehicle road service into the biggest road passenger service in Australia before starting Ansett Airways Pty. in 1936. His transport empire grew fast, and he soon branched out into air travel with his first moth aircraft. The museum committee has kept his legacy alive with artifacts that tell the story of his road and air transport operations. From one vehicle to an international airline, Reg Ansett was an entrepreneur.
Exhibits
- Ansett’s First Aircraft: The main aircraft that started it all is on display in the original aircraft hangar where Ansett Airways began.
- Flight Attendant Uniforms: See the evolution of flight attendant uniforms over the years as part of Ansett’s international airline.
- Vintage Vehicles: The museum vehicles give you a look back at the early days of road transport operations with buses and cars from Ansett’s one-man passenger service.
- Memorabilia: Timetables, tickets and photographs tell the story of Ansett Airlines’ rapid rise.
- Interactive Displays: Hands-on exhibits will help you understand flight and modern transportation technology.
Aviation at its heart
Most of the museum is about Ansett Airways and its growth from a domestic to an international airline. See artifacts from the airline’s history, including flight attendant uniforms, advertising and equipment from the early days. Ansett moved fast with aviation and was a major player in the development of air travel in Australia and beyond. Come back to a time when air travel was a luxury for the few, and Ansett Airlines was the leader.
Cultural and Educational Value
There is cultural and educational value in the museum beyond the nostalgia. The great collection is used in educational programs on Australian entrepreneurship, transport history and the innovations that changed air and road travel. Students and scholars come to the museum to learn about people like Reg Ansett, who shaped the industry.
Disability Access and Family Friendly
It is family-friendly for all ages and disability, with ramps and accessible facilities so everyone can come and enjoy the museum.
Tours and Visitor Experience
The Grampians tour goes into more detail about Reg Ansett and the Australian transport empire he built. Whether you are interested in Ansett’s one man passenger service or his transformation into a popular service that became an international airline, the staff will share these stories with you. Nostalgia buffs will be busy as you travel through the history of aviation and road transport in Australia.
Exhibitions and Events
The museum committee puts on special exhibitions and events that focus on different parts of Reg Ansett’s life and Ansett Airways. Aviation buffs and historians will enjoy these changing displays and get new insights into Australian aviation history. First time visitor or regular you will always find something new.
Location and Getting Here
The Sir Reginald Ansett Transport Museum is in Hamilton Victoria – a region rich in history and transport. Easy to get to and plenty of parking. You can visit the Southern Grampians after the museum and add to your day.
Hours and Prices
Open 7 days a week during regular hours, weekends reduced hours. Family, tourist and transport prices. Group discounts so everyone can come.
FAQ
What’s on show?
Reg Ansett’s first plane, vintage vehicles from his road transport business and a huge collection of Ansett Airways memorabilia.
Where is it?
Hamilton, Victoria, in the original Ansett Airways hangar.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, there are ramps and facilities for all mobility.
How long will I be here?
Most people spend 1-2 hours. Guided tours are available if you want to go longer.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, family-friendly and interactive exhibits for all ages. Great for families.
Grampians Travel
Activities for Visitors
Hiking Trails: Around Gunlom Falls or Twin Falls there are some trails that are stunning and get you up close to local wildlife.
Water Based Activities: Explore the waterways by kayak or canoe during the wet season and get up close to what’s on the water’s edge and in the water – animals.
Scenic Cruises: See a vast array of wildlife as you take a guided cruise around this billabong where the ecology is self explanatory.
Bird Watching: Have your binoculars and field guide ready to spot many species of birds here.
