Recent national catastrophes have put pressure on public infrastructure being able to handle a broader range of service needs.
Shepparton Airport has a need to accommodate a greater number, and a more modern range of emergency aircraft and will now be able to do so thanks to a Federal Government grant of $452,000 through its Regional Airports Program .
Federal Member for Nicholls, Damian Drum, said the funding would allow vital upgrades such as the restoration of the airport’s northern taxiway and the construction of a new larger taxiway to accommodate modern aeromedical and emergency services operations as well as a new and larger helipad.
“Medical services such as the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Air Ambulance are incredibly important to our regional communities and I’m thrilled that I’ve been able to successfully advocate for this funding,” Mr Drum said.
Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Cr Seema Abdullah said, “The Shepparton Airport plays a critical role in the emergency services in Northern Victoria, acting as a vital link for the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Ambulance Victoria and as a hub for the CFA firefighting aircraft during the fire season.”
As owner and operator of the airport, Council will oversee the upgrades, which are expected to be completed within the next 12 months.
