Kirstin Nicholson, The Koondrook and Barham Bridge
The expansion and upgrade of the Cohuna Airport has moved a step closer with the announcement of a $2.57 million grant from the federal government’s Community Development Fund.
Photo: The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper.
Initially announced as an election promise in 2019, the grant has now been confirmed by Anne Webster MP and former deputy prime minister, Michael McCormack at a presentation at the airport on March 18.
“What a winner for Cohuna. It is excellent to see it come to this place now where it has been approved by the department and all the ticks have been provided and you can get to work,” announced Mrs Webster.
“I’m really pleased that we have got to this point and it will be achieved.”
Aerodrome Redevelopment Board member, Andrew Gibbs said that the upgrade to Cohuna Airport will enable emergency service aircraft to have the ability to better protect the local community and will provide air services with a certified alternative to Mildura and Albury if required.
On the list of upgrades: 1200m x 30m runway; Papi approach lighting; R-Nav GPS landing protocols; a tougher surface with a PCN of 14 for broader capability in the emergency services field; Jet A1 and AvGas fuelling terminals, a rest zone for AAV crew, bathrooms and weather live PC access. The extended apron will add 30% more capacity to visitors and includes an airside fully automated driveway and remote-controlled gate for road ambulance to access aircraft without having to stop.
“When it comes to providing for better air services, you provide for better health services, and you can get your medicos in and out, and more importantly you can get your patients in and out. That is so important – it saves lives. It makes sure that your community can have the sort of services and amenities that you deserve,” said Mr McCormack.
The project will be managed by the Cohuna Lions Club and the Aerodrome Redevelopment Board, which is chaired by Anne Graham and consists of directors, Andrew Gibbs, Ossie Costello, Keith Link and Sonia Wright. The board will present the design to Coliban Water, the owner of the land, and hopes to deliver the new airport in 12-14 months.
This article appeared in The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper, 31 March 2022.
