20 October 2010 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Plane preservation project prepared for lift off

The DC-3 Trust is thrilled to launch the conservation project of the iconic aeroplane; the DC-3/C47 B Aircraft ZK-AZL, located in the Agricultural Heritage Museum at Mystery Creek Events Centre, near the Hamilton Airport.

The legendary Ossie James gifted the historic aircraft to the museum in 1974. Ossie, who passed in May 2007, was the first president of the NZ Fieldays Society and pioneer of aviation in the agricultural industries. Ossie championed innovation in the farming sector, being the first to convert a Tiger Moth into a top dresser followed by the DC-3 which could carry 5 tons of fertiliser.

The official launch of the conservation project is set to take place on the 15th of November at the Agricultural Heritage Museum at Mystery Creek Events Centre. Over 200 aviation and agricultural enthusiasts will be invited to attend the function to celebrate the initiation of the project. The launch could not take place on a better day since November 15 would also mark Ossie James's 91st birthday.

The DC-3 Trust was created to ensure that the legacy of Ossie James lives on. The volunteer group is dedicated to conserving the DC-3 aircraft and are passionate about preserving the New Zealand aviation and farming history. Members include Lynnette James (Ossie James's daughter), John Gallagher, Dr Jenny Cave, Chris Luoni, Wayne Green and Terry Harpe.

An independent expert was employed to assess the condition of the aeroplane. It is evident from the report that a conservation project is vital to combat corrosion and to protect the aircraft. The conservation project will transform the DC-3 by repairing the damaged skin, inserting a new floor, upgrading the cockpit, painting the exterior original colours, replacing the windows, supporting the wings and many other elements that will ensure the aeroplane is preserved.

The most crucial part of the conservation project is to erect a roof over the plane before any work is implemented. This will ensure the aircraft does not suffer any further weather damage and preservation work can get underway.

This 2-3 year long conservation project needs financial help in order to progress. An initial seeding fund of $25,000 from the NZ National Fieldays Society was joined by $36,000 from the Lottery Grants Funding and along with $17,000, a generous gift from the James family. All of which have helped to get the project off the ground.

ENDS

© Scoop Media