Improved security, safety and accessibility are coming to the Ilfracombe and Isisford airstrips, with a $19,652 Federal Governmnet investment through the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program (RAUP), Maranoa MP David Littleproud said today.
“One of my top goals as the Member for Maranoa is to imrpove our connectivity and inrastructure – these upgrades at Ilfracombe and Isisford are going to give all users safer, more secure access to larger centres, businesses and facilities,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Stopping livestock, feral pigs and kangaroos from getting on the Ilfracombe runway is an important safety goal, and the Longreach council will make use of $13,320 for exclusion fencing.
“At the Isisford Airstrip, $6332 for solar taxi-way lighting is going to improve conditions and options for pilots when it comes to landing, taking off and parking.
“Upgrades like this mean that Isisford and Ilfracombe residents will have improved connectivity to essential services like the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
“I am looking forward to working with the Longreach Regional Council to ensure we deliver the essential airstrip works.”
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
