Cootamundra

29 ‘The built structures retain most of their original fabric and have the potential to improve our understanding of the technical knowledge and factors involved in the mid-twentieth century storage of aviation fuel as well as issues associated with the long-term use and conservation of such structures.’ This is especially important as Cootamundra 3IAFD, the most intact inland fuel depot in NSW, provides an unmatched opportunity to interpret a brief time in history when ‘Total War’ came to Australia and Cootamundra geared up to support the war effort on the home front. Because No 3. IAFD was one of Australia’s earliest bulk fuel depots, its construction was to some extent experimental, with later depots using more robust methodologies to protect the all-important emergency fuel supplies. ‘Property at Cootamundra’ plan of depot site showing gravel reserve and RAAF acquired land. 1942. National Archives Australia ‘Cootamundra Area – MISC TRG’ showing flight paths over Cootamundra. National Archives Australia Fuel depot site photographed from the Sutton Street pull off. 2018