VITAL FUNDING FOR BARKER AIRSTRIPS

Three projets in Barker will receive a share of $41.2 million under the Australian Government’s Regional Airports Program.

Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin said airstrips in Waikerie, Loxton and Mount Gambier would receive funding under the program to improve safety at the three locations.

The Loxton Waikerie Council will receive $132,266 to undertake upgrades at Loxton and Waikerie airstrips to provide safe and all weather access for essential services like RFDS and other operators, while the Disctrict Council of Grant will receive $85,140 to undertake an essential animal fencing project at Mount Gambier airport.

“These airstrips, which are all used regularly by the Royal Flying Doctor Service, will receive Federal funding to improve safety,” Mr Pasin said.

Mr Pasin said the Regional Airports Program would assist the owners of regional airports to undertake essential works, promoting aviation safety and access for regional Australians.

“For our regional communities, the local airport is an essential link to the rest of Australia,” Mr Pasin said.

“The 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.

“We are investing $100 million over four years from 2019-20 to 2022-23 to help owners of regional airports right across Australia deliver safer runways, taxiways and other safety upgrades such as new fencing and safety equipment.”

This funding is in addition to the Federal Government’s total package of support for Australia’s aviation industry of more than $1.2 billion.

For more information on the Regional Airports Program, visit https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/aviation/regional/rap.aspx.