ECO FARM MANAGEMENT TOUR

Pell Mell property management is aimed at consideration of the environment and utilising best practice management. This tour is designed for people who enjoy wildlife and the outdoors, or those who are interested in preservation of sustainable ecosystems.

TOUR OUTLINE

• This two hour tour explains the extreme variability between out two major seasons - Wet and Dry - and the adaptability required to manage this on a commercial and grass roots scale, with reference to a small property.
• Plus we'll explore the impact of introduced flora and fauna and how to preserve the indigenous species.
• Reference to soil leaching, erosion, the major introduced species, and how to improve pasture while balancing gamba grass control in this situation- as compared to a large cattle grazing station.
• Inspection of paddocks and illustration of Pell Mell's management of the above.
• Aspects of water provision, grazing rotation, stock control, supplements, recycling and composting.
• Observation of bird, native vegetation and tree species.

THE GUIDED WORLD WAR HERITAGE SITE TOUR

Adelaide River played a crucial role in the defence of Northern Australia throughout World War II, particularly with air and logistical support.

The Pell wartime airstrip is a significant and interesting landmark.

It was named after Major Floyd Pell who was killed when the Japanese strafed Darwin Airport on February 19, 1942.

You are taken - on a journey from the airstrip through the significant  infrastructure which remains and which spells out the story of this special unit.

60th Anniversary of the signing of the peace treaty WWII September 2006. RAAF Chaplin at parade ground 4RSU.

TOUR OUTLINE

The infrastructure of the RAAF camp, 4RSU ( Repair and Service Unit) ex- Melbourne and set up from November 1942 is still very obvious and has been heritage listed. It comprises 16.5 ha across the whole block, and the tour incorporates an explanation of the workshop areas plus the very separate and hierarchical residential infrastructure. You will view a plan of the camp to appreciate the planning and intense work which was involved.

We utilise the roadway built to move planes to the revetments and there will be side walks to view hand dug drains, a gun emplacement, revetments, and other special features unique to this camp.

We will then proceed to the parade ground, from where we will inspect the individual tent sites, and associated items.

There are three messes, Officers, Airmen and Sargeants, and each have individual features; as well the kitchens and other supportive elements can be identified.

The fountain within the officers mess at 4RSU Pell.

Artefacts have been collected and displayed to show evidence of the painstaking parts repair and manufacture for aircraft recovery, and servicing, as well as communication and recreation.