Hinkler House, the heritage home of pioneering aviator Bert Hinkler, has officially reopened to the public following conservation work to replace its verandah.
Located at the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, the house was temporarily closed in February due to deteriorating timber affected by rot.
A conservation project was undertaken by Bundaberg Regional Council to preserve the structural integrity and historical authenticity of the important local landmark.
Originally built in the 1920s, Hinkler House is renowned as the home of Bert and Nance which was situated in Southampton England and is where Hinkler planned his historic flight from England to Australia in 1928.
It was relocated to Bundaberg in the 1980s by a group of dedicated locals who later formed the Hinkler House Memorabilia Museum and Research Association Inc.
The home is a treasured cultural asset that offers visitors a glimpse into the life and times of the aviation pioneer, whose innovative spirit helped shape early flight history.
Key upgrades completed during the restoration included:
• Installation of new hardwood posts replicating the original decorative chamfered edges.
• Repainting the verandah to match the existing colour scheme precisely.
• Salvaging and repurposing original timber wherever possible to maintain authenticity.
Arts, Heritage and Asset Management portfolio spokesperson Cr John Learmonth said maintaining Hinkler House was important work.
“Hinkler House is more than just a building – it’s a connection to our heritage and the extraordinary story of Bert Hinkler,” he said.
“We thank the public for their patience while the site was closed and we encourage everyone to visit and experience the rich history of the house, whether in person or through the virtual tour available at the Hinkler Hall of Aviation.”
Throughout the restoration, all works complied with the local heritage character overlay code, ensuring the home’s cultural significance remains intact.
Find out more about Hinkler House here.
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