The Dunoon Building

QAM's library storage facility was officially opened on 5 November 2008 by QAM Patron Allan Vial DFC, OAM, OPR (Pol) who also funded construction of the building. During the ceremony, the building was formally named as The Dunoon Building in honour of the Victorian pioneer aviator Alan Dunoon, but equally for his daughter, Gwenne Dunoon, who was partner to Allan Vial and the Secretary/Treasurer of the Path Finder Force Assn. Qld when the association became closely associated with the QAM from about 1981 until her death in 2000.

It is ironic but one lesson QAM has learned over the past 34 years would appear to be that the aeroplanes are the easy bit and the books are the difficult bit. During this time we have generally managed to provide for our aeroplanes which are now mostly under cover. However, our books have been moved from one temporary location to another and for much of this time they have been in storage and virtually inaccessible to anyone. With the provision of The Dunoon Building, the QAM Library is now together in a purpose-built structure and available to members and researchers. QAM records its appreciation to Allan Vial for this most significant achievement.

The plaque above the door.

QAM Patron and donor of the building, Allan Vial, addresses guests at the opening ceremony on 5 November 2008.

The plaque inside the front door.

The Librarian's work area. Framed photographs on the wall are (left to right) Gwenne Dunoon, Alan Dunoon's Avro Avian and the Avian's Certificate of Registration.

Allan Vial and Wing Commander Micka Gray, O.C. of No 6 Squadron RAAF Amberley, photographed inside the Don Bennett Office at QAM on opening day for The Dunoon Building. Micka is Secretary/Treasurer of the Path Finder Force Association of Queensland. (Yes it rained!)