Liam McNally
Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome is ready to fly to new heights thanks to a grant of more than $450,000.
The federal government has invested $471,77 under round three of the $100 million Regional Airports Program.
The Bacchus Marsh investment will fund runway and taxiway surface treatment works and the installation of a lighting system including Pilot Activated Lighting Control and an illuminated wind direction indicator.
Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome Management Chairman Trevor Oliver said the lighting control will allow for night flying for flight schools, emergency service, and private flying.
“It’s a feather in the cap for everybody on the committee that we’ve been able to obtain this sort of funding for something that we believe is one of the best kept secrets in Moorabool shire.. it’s a great community asset that can further expand,” he said.
The Regional Airports Program has supported 150 projects across regional Australia with nearly $71 million in funding under the first two rounds.
Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said the program delivers “significant benefits” for regional aviation.
“These projects are also an investment in the improved delivery of goods and services,
including healthcare and passenger air services,” she said.
“Investing in our regional airports is also critical to supporting the operational requirements of
aeromedical and other emergency services.”
Member for Hawke Sam Rae said the funding is a “big win” for the Moorabool community, “improving safety and access at the Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome.”
“Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome is an important local asset, and these works will create jobs for
workers across our region,” he said.
Moorabool Mayor Rod Ward said the council-owned Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome is an “important facility for our growing area.”
“We are looking forward to working with Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome Management to deliver this much-needed infrastructure for the shire, and we thank the Australian Government for its valuable support,” he said.
The Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome is hosting a Wings Wheels and Coffee event, featuring classic cars and aerial acrobatics from 9am, February 5.
