William Scott
The federal government has announced an investment of almost $12 million to upgrade regional airports across New South Wales.
Airports are vital for regional communities, providing critical access to emergency healthcare, as well as commerce, industry, tourism and education.
This funding, which is provided under Round 4 of the Regional Airports Program, will deliver essential upgrades – such as runway resurfacing, fencing, lighting and drainage – that improve safety, enhance accessibility and boost capacity at the state’s regional airports.
In Merimbula, Bega Valley Shire Council will receive almost $3.8 million to deliver stage two of Merimbula Airport’s runway extension. This will construct an 80m pavement extension at both ends of the runway, providing an 1,800m runway take-off length.
The extended length will enable larger narrow-bodied aircraft to land, supporting emergency services including larger firefighting and military aircraft, as well as additional capacity for passenger services, boosting the economy and tourism and protecting the region’s community.
Further north, in Moruya, Eurobodalla Shire Council will receive over $200,000 to reseal the runway, taxiways and apron pavement and replace the apron lighting at Moruya Airport.
This will ensure the continued safe operation of the airport, safeguarding its role as a lifeline for the community and a gateway for access to vital services and for visitors to the region. Works will support the continued use of the airport by emergency services, including the RFDS and aerial firefighting even for night and low visibility operations, as well as regular passenger services
Other works to be funded under Round 4 include:
- $5 million for Albury City Council to deliver a full runway overlay to improve safety and strengthen the surface for larger aircraft to land at Albury Airport. This will support visitor levels and emergency services, particularly during bushfire season
- $1 million for Moree Plains Shire Council to upgrade the aeromedical apron, taxiway and parking bays at Moree Regional Airport, creating a 24-hour aeromedical facility
- Almost $500,000 for Griffith City Council to replace the ageing runway lights at Griffith Regional Airport, which is critical for safety and ongoing operations, especially for RFDS and NSW Air Ambulance
- $220,000 for Mid-Western Regional Council to upgrade stormwater drainage at Mudgee Regional Airport, which has experienced prolonged closure due to heavy rain affecting passenger and emergency medical flights
The announcement builds on the nearly $100 million that has already been delivered to support 194 projects under the first three rounds of the program.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said that the government is backing regional communities by backing regional aviation, because regions deserve access to critical services that only aviation can deliver.
“Upgrades like these aren’t just improvements, they’re the difference between regional residents getting medical help, firefighters getting access during an emergency and economies growing through tourism,” Ms King said.
“We want our regions to remain connected to loved ones, healthcare and opportunity.”
Federal Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain, said that Merimbula Airport is a critical access point for the community and emergency services during disasters, which is why he is proud to deliver over $3.7 million towards this runway extension.
“This upgrade will support larger aerial firefighting tanker aircraft to land when we need them most, make it easier for larger military transport to operate out of the airport, and also increase the safety for in-flight emergency recoveries,” Ms McBain said.
“The extended runway will also ensure Merimbula Airport continues to attract aircraft that support our local businesses and visitor economy – while keeping people connected to work, health services and family.”
Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, said that she is delighted to see improvements at Moruya Airport, which is a lifeline for the economy, cuts commuting times for local people and helps get local produce to national and international markets.
“Not only that, but many people rely on air services for healthcare, emergency services and to stay connected with family,” Ms Phillips said.
“This investment will create more jobs, help local farmers, and support our social and economic connections across Australia. It’s great news for our regions.”
For more information on the Regional Airports Program, including a full list of Round 4 projects in New South Wales, visit infrastructure.gov.au
