The Taylor’s Plains airstrip, north of Mungallala, is set for lighting and fencing upgrades thanks to a $164,646 investment through the Federal Government’s Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program (RAUP), Maranoa MP David Littleproud said today.
“One of my top goals as the Member for Maranoa is to improve our connectivity and infrastructure – these upgrades at the Taylor’s Plains airstrip are going to give its users more secure and efficient access for the delivery of supplies and for use in times of emergency,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Fencing, solar lights and a windsock are going to improve accessibility and safety for take-offs and landing – that’s important for the Royal Flying Doctor Service and private aircraft.
“I look forward to seeing the finished airstrip and am pleased to see that nine stations will have better access to services and larger centres.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said funding under the RAUP will enhance the safety and accessibility of aerodromes in remote areas and improve delivery of essential goods and services including health care.
“We are investing in the future of regional communities by delivering better and safer access for regional Australians needing to travel,” Mr McCormack said.
Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister Kevin Hogan said the upgrades, being funded across Australia, would make remote airstrips safer and more accessible in all conditions.
“Eligible projects can include upgrading runway surfaces, stormwater drainage, runway lighting and animal proof fencing,” Mr Hogan said.
For more information on the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program, visit https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/aviation/regional/raug.aspx.
Across Maranoa, under Round Seven of the RAUP, $729,656 has been invested.
Maranoa-wide projects:
LOCATION | UPGRADES |
Augathella Airstrip | 300 metre runway extension |
Aramac Airstrip | Reseal Aramac Airstrip |
Adavale Airstrip | Fencing |
Birdsville Aerodrome | Rejuvenate airstrip surface and crack seal |
Blackall Aerodrome | Fencing |
Taylors Plains, north of Mungallala | Upgrade black soil airstrip to all-weather with a fence, solar lights |
Ilfracombe airport | Install vermin-proof fencing |
Isisford airport | Install solar taxi-way lights |
ENDS