The Milne Bay Military Museum in Toowoomba, held its annual Open Day on Saturday August 23rd. Whilst inclement conditions curtailed the outdoors intentions and visitor numbers were affected, organisers are happy with the overall outcome of the day.

The Museum is housed in a 1917 building known as “The Drill Hall”. This building was first constructed at Newtown Park in 1917 as a recruiting depot for the 11th Light Horse during World War One.  After that conflict it became the headquarters and training depot for the 25th Battalion, the Darling Downs regiment.

During World War II, the building served as a recruiting depot for the armed forces and later as the home base for soldiers during the National Service era of the 1950’s and 60’s. Following relocation to the corner of Anzac Avenue and O’Quinn Street, Toowoomba “The Drill Hall” now houses military memorabilia and equipment associated with service personnel from the Darling Downs and South East Queensland.

Visitors are able to view displays of weapons, the 25th Battalion (focusing mainly on the Pacific War), a History Room, a walk through of a WW1 trench,  a 7/8ths scale replica of the Red Baron;s Fokker Triplane and Changi and Vietnam displays. The Museum also has restored military vehicles such as a 1943 Blitz wagon, American Jeep, 1957 Land Rover and other vehicles.

On the Open Day, an appreciative audience was also entertained by the Harlaxton RSL Brass Band and Sing Australia choristers with songs from the war eras.

A medal mounting service for military service medals as well as a war service records unit for World Wars One and Two is also provided.  The Milne Bay MilitaryMuseum is entirely self-funded, solely managed and manned by volunteers.

During the winter months, the Museum opens 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 2pm Saturdays on the corner of Anzac Avenue and O’Quinn Street, Toowoomba.

For more information phone (07) 4631  4482
Postal Address: PO Box18434, Clifford Gardens. 4350
Email: museum25battalion@westnet.com.au
Website: www.milnebaymilitarymuseum.com.au

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