Moira Shire Council chief executive Clare Keenan said the latest upgrade would involve increasing the pavement width along the length of the taxiway fronting the hangars.
“It will also double the width of the taxiway pavement at the western end to meet compliance,” Ms Keenan said.
“With these works, the airport will continue to allow access to all designated Code A aircraft.
“The burgeoning growth of recreational flying is a valuable revenue source for the accommodation and food sectors within Moira Shire, so it is essential to consider passenger safety as larger aircraft ferry people into the Shire for business and recreational purposes.”
Federal Member for Nicholls Damian Drum added the funding, which comes via round two of the Government’s Regional Airports Program, would allow for an upgrade of the taxiway.
“I’m thrilled the upgrade of Yarrawonga Airport will continue thanks to the Regional Airports Program, which is benefitting 89 airports nationally with almost $30 million of funding,” Mr Drum said.
“This funding of $300,000 follows $137,500 that went to Yarrawonga Airport in round one of the program last year that resulted in the upgrade of its landing lights to ensure they met Civil Aviation Safety Authority requirements.
“I look forward to working with the Moira Shire Council and Yarrawonga community to deliver this latest upgrade.
“The Federal Government is investing in regional airports because we know this infrastructure is key to securing our regional aviation network now and into the post-COVID future.
“Every dollar spent on local infrastructure is a dollar well spent.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Barnaby Joyce, said the Regional Airports Program supported important safety and access upgrades.
“For our regional communities, the local airport provides an essential link to the rest of Australia,” Mr Joyce said.
“That’s why we’ve committed $100 million over four years from 2019-20 to 2022-23 to help owners of regional airports right across Australia deliver upgrades to improve runway and taxiway pavements, install new lighting or fencing.
“These projects will improve the safety of aircraft, operators and passengers, the delivery of goods and services, and better meet the operational requirements of aeromedical and other emergency services, including supporting bushfire preparedness.
“This is a great example of our government backing the aviation industry while boosting local economies to help secure a stronger future for these regional areas.”
In round one of the Regional Airports Program, Shepparton Airport received funding of $452,000 for the restoration of the airport’s northern taxiway and the construction of a new larger taxiway to accommodate modern aeromedical and emergency services operations.
A full list of successful projects and more information on the Regional Airports Program is available on the Infrastructure Australia website.
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