Combining two gems, both hidden in plain sight, Sunday was a delightful day of exploration and history.

Which started at the 100 Steps of Federation which can make the (modest as it turns out) claim of being the highest land between Melbourne and the You Yangs. Despite the hill being almost completely hidden behind some trees, the extra elevation does indeed provide an extensive view.

From there we moved to the nearby RAAF Museum at RAAF Base Point Cook, the first and the longest continually serving air force base in Australia with over 100 years of history.

The site was originally chosen because Bristol had operated an aeroplane from nearby as a sort of prototype for an air force, taking advantage of the flat terrain. An additional benefit was the proximity to water as flying boats were one of the most common air craft, certainly for military use, in the absence of purpose built runways.

Strange to think the air craft were not considered a military asset at the start of World War One but rapidly become one, culminating in the inevitable rapid escalation of capabilities and the famed aerial dog fights where one plane tries to shoot down another plane before it can shoot down the plane trying to drop bombs.

Split into two groups for guided tours the vast collection of items and information was presented in a condensed but relatable format. As with many such venues, the tour is but a taster with many more enjoyable hours possible at a later stage.

Perhaps too soon we were off to lunch and some great conversations.

Lawrence Glynn #3

The museum was doubly-interesting for me because my dad served in the RAAF during WWII in the Pacific theatre.  His work in signals intelligence was covered by the Official Secrets Act, so he was unable to tell his family about his work until 50 years after the war ended.

Guy Nutting #669

What a great day we had together, we really enjoyed it, thank you.

Not only was the museum extremely interesting, we also enjoyed the company of others around the lunch table. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming. Hope you had a good time too

Lynne Rosethal BMW MCV

We had a fantastic day, the museum, the stories, and the whole experience were genuinely awe inspiring. Thank you all for the effort that went into making it such a memorable event

David Chandler #1562

Another great venue from the BMWDCM. Well done. It was a good day all round.

Jeff and Jill Palmer  $682 and #949

Lovely day out today on a gorgeous Melbourne winters day.

Started at Truganina Park for an early morning walk up the 100 Steps of Federation, apparently the highest point between Melbourne and the You Yangs.

We met up with DCM members and friends to then drive to Point Cook RAAF Museum for a tour of the facility. Fantastic displays of our Air Force history and some of the planes and helicopters we have had in our arsenal over the last century.

Then on to a lovely lunch at the Phoenix Hotel before heading off home.

Was great to have some members of the BMW Motorbike Club of Victoria going us for the day too. Perfect day to be out on a bike!

Graeme Bell #1