With the support of Swan Hill Rural City Council, the Lions Club of Lake Boga is leading an ambitious project to preserve an important piece of Australia's wartime history, restoring a rare World War II Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) crash boat.
The passionate group of locals is now seeking funding to restore the historic RAAF Seaplane Tender O8-18, one of only a handful of surviving vessels of its kind in Australia, ensuring this important piece of wartime history is preserved for future generations.
These boats played a vital role during World War II, rescuing aircrew, transporting personnel and supplies, and supporting Catalina flying boat operations.
The project holds particular significance for Lake Boga, which was home to a secret RAAF flying boat repair and maintenance base established in 1942.
Mayor Cr Stuart King welcomed the community-led initiative, describing it as a wonderful opportunity to preserve an important chapter of the region's history.
Lions Club of Lake Boga President, Sue Donnelly, highlighted the significant role Lake Boga played during World War II and the community's strong connection to its wartime history.
"Our community is incredibly proud of Lake Boga's rich history and the important contribution our town made during World War II.
"This project is particularly special because it was the dream of the late Rod Rudge, whose passion and determination saw this remarkable vessel rescued from beneath a collapsed shed near Bendigo and brought to Lake Boga, where he believed it belonged.
"Rod's enthusiasm was infectious, and he rallied the support of the boat's former owner and local community members to help bring his vision to life.
"While many people are familiar with the Catalina flying boats, fewer know about the smaller vessels and the vital role they played in supporting operations and saving lives.
"Restoring this boat is not only about preserving an important piece of wartime history, but also honouring Rod's legacy and ensuring his dream lives on for future generations," Ms Donnelly said.
Cr King said it was fantastic to see a dedicated group of locals taking the initiative to preserve this remarkable piece of history, and Council was pleased to support their efforts.
"This project is about much more than restoring an old boat. It's about preserving stories, recognising those who served and ensuring future generations understand the important role our region played in Australia's wartime efforts," Cr King said.
The vessel is now stored at Lake Boga, with an independent assessment identifying significant structural deterioration and the urgent need for restoration.
The committee has developed a detailed restoration plan, estimated at $632,500, to rebuild the vessel as a permanent heritage display.
Cr King congratulated the committee on its dedication and encouraged others to support the initiative.
"Our region has a wonderful history of volunteers rolling up their sleeves to protect and celebrate what makes our communities special.
"We hope the community's enthusiasm for this project inspires others to get behind it and help bring this important piece of Australian history back to life," he said.
The committee is now seeking philanthropic support and funding partnerships to help deliver the restoration and preserve the vessel for future generations.
Businesses, organisations and individuals interested in supporting the project are encouraged to contact the committee to discuss funding opportunities and obtain a copy of the restoration funding prospectus.
