The Rathmines Catalina is on the Move - Rod Mellor RCMPA Volunteer

Rathmines Catalina PBY-5A is on the move to new premises at Beresfield, just off the end of the M1. After eight years on private land in Ridge Road it was time to move to a suitable site where restoration work can continue whilst providing facilities for public tours & memorabilia displays. The fuselage is planned to be moved on the 15th December with the centre wing and other major components currently stored at Centennials’ Awaba mine head site shortly after. Smaller components, tools and other equipment will be moved by volunteers as time permits. It is planned to recommence restoration work at the new premises after the Christmas break.

We are hoping for extensive media coverage so expect to see it in the Newcastle Herald and on NBN News.

The Rathmines Catalina Association volunteers normally meet on Mondays and Wednesdays for restoration efforts. There are several retired aircraft trades people, both civil & RAAF, but most volunteers are locals just interested in doing something worthwhile to represent the history of our area. It is hoped that the fully restored aircraft and the associated Rathmines RAAF base memorabilia will become a permanent static display at Williamtown in conjunction with Fighter World.

Please review the website https://rathmines-catalina.com or the Rathmines Catalina Association | Facebook or email info@rathmines-catalina.com for any further information including by arrangement visits to the aircraft and a look at the on-line shop.

Finished

Prepped

au-naturel

On location at Kilaben bay