Longreach holds a proud place in aviation history as one of the birthplaces of Qantas, and the Qantas Founders Museum celebrates that story in spectacular fashion. From the early days of a tiny outback airline to a global carrier, the museum brings the history to life — including the unforgettable chance to walk on the wing of a retired Boeing 747. Cooee Tours includes the Qantas Founders Museum as a highlight of central-western outback touring.
The Birthplace of Qantas
Qantas — the Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services — has deep roots in outback Queensland, with Longreach central to its early operations. The Qantas Founders Museum tells how a pioneering airline grew from these remote beginnings to become one of the world's most respected carriers.
Interactive displays, original artefacts and beautifully presented exhibits trace the airline's history, the characters who built it, and the role aviation played in connecting the vast distances of the outback.
Walk on the Wing of a 747
The museum's outdoor aircraft collection is a genuine highlight, including heritage airliners that visitors can explore up close. The signature experience is the chance to walk on the wing of a retired Boeing 747 — a thrilling, unusual perspective high above the tarmac.
Guided tours of the aircraft reveal the engineering and the stories behind them, making this one of the most memorable attractions anywhere in outback Queensland.
Visiting with Cooee Tours
The Qantas Founders Museum sits alongside Longreach's other great attractions — the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame, the Thomson River and the town's outback shows — making Longreach one of the richest stops in the central-west.
On a Cooee Tours itinerary, the timing and logistics are arranged so you can enjoy the museum and its aircraft experiences at a comfortable pace, with a knowledgeable guide adding context throughout.
What You'll See
Birthplace of Qantas
Trace the story of Australia's national airline from its pioneering outback beginnings to a global carrier, through original artefacts and exhibits.
Boeing 747 Wing-Walk
Walk on the wing of a retired Boeing 747 — a thrilling and unusual perspective and a signature museum experience.
Heritage Aircraft
Explore a collection of heritage airliners up close on guided tours that reveal the engineering and the stories behind them.
Visit the Qantas Founders Museum with Cooee Tours
The Qantas Founders Museum features as a highlight of our central-western touring, alongside the Stockman's Hall of Fame and the Thomson River at Longreach. Transport, accommodation, meals and guided experiences are all included.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Qantas Founders Museum?
It is the museum at Longreach celebrating the birth of Qantas, Australia's national airline, with interactive exhibits, original artefacts and a collection of heritage aircraft.
Can you walk on the wing of a 747?
Yes. A signature experience at the museum is the chance to walk on the wing of a retired Boeing 747, high above the tarmac.
Where is the Qantas Founders Museum?
It is located at Longreach, in central-western Queensland, around 1,175 km from Brisbane.
Can Cooee Tours include the museum?
Yes. The Qantas Founders Museum features as a highlight of our central-western outback touring, with timing and logistics arranged for a comfortable visit.
When is the best time to visit?
The cooler dry season from April to October is the most comfortable time to visit Longreach and the museum.
Travel Agents & Group Organisers
This destination suits coach groups, clubs and social groups touring Outback Queensland. Cooee Tours offers net rates, custom routing and guaranteed departures — get in touch to discuss your group's needs.