Come Fly with me

The Australia Aviation Museum (AAM), a client of me marketing agency, is using social media to connect with a fresh new audience. Their Facebook site (facebook.com/AustralianAviationMuseum) has grown into a sharing, content rich hub. It was on this site that the AAM first heard of, connected with and offered support to Owen Zupp.

2010 marks the centenary of the first powered flight in Australia. This landmark was achieved by the American escapologist, Harry Houdini. From an island nation, the likes of Sir Charles Kingsford Smith subsequently emerged to rewrite global history. Honouring this milestone, Owen Zupp is undertaking a flight around Australia (departing May 5) to raise much-needed funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service aptly named ‘There and Back’.

It’s times likes these when Social Media proves how truly limitless its potential is. Facebook connected the AAM to Owen; Twitter helped AAM to attract media attention; and LinkedIn offered professional assistance. Facebook, Twitter, Blogs, Flicker and an iphone app will keep Australia connected to Owen 24-7 for the duration of his flight.

If only Smithy had this much cyber support when his famous attempt to fly across Australia failed so controversially.

Ironically, it turns out the Owen is no stranger to museums. He’s an ex AAM, HARS and Bradman volunteer. Today, the NSW Air Ambulance Beechcraft Queen Air VH-AMB, hangs from the Powerhouse Museum roof in Sydney. Its final flight was in 1985 when Owen’s father, Phillip Zupp, ferried it from Tamworth to Sydney. Owen himself was awarded an Aviation Press Club award in 2006 in the shadow of his father’s former mount.

Australian Museums are no longer just about displaying history; they are now an integral part of the making of it.

The Australian Aviation Museum proudly supports Owen on his ‘There and Back’ tour. We urge all to follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Flicker, and to track his flight on your iphone.  Importantly, you can make a donation to The Royal Flying Doctors of Australia by visiting his website www.thereandback.com.au