Get to the chopper pad

A NEW helicopter pad and truck parking zone will be constructed at Bendigo Airport.

Finding for the works is part of round 2 of the Australian Government’s regional airports program, Bendigo is one of 89 cities to share $30 million of airport funding.

Victorian Senator Sarah Henderson said the money is aimed at boosting infrastructure.

“I am delighted to announce a grant of $300,000 to Greater Bendigo city council to construct a concrete helicopter stand for use by emergency service and other visiting helicopters and a concrete fuel truck parking area to provide an environmentally safe parking space for the fuel truck at Bendigo Airport,” she said.

“This project will directly benefit emergency service helicopters that come to Bendigo Airport providing vital services to the region.”

Deputy Prime Minister and minister for infrastructure, transport and regional development Barnaby Joyce said the funding program supports safety upgrades to regional airports.

“These projects will improve the safety of aircraft, operators and passengers, the delivery of goods and services and better meet the operational requirements of aeromedical and other emergency services, including supporting bushfire preparedness,” he said.

“This is a great example of our Government backing the aviation industry whilst boosting local economies to help secure a stronger future for these regional areas.”

Earlier this month, shadow minister for infrastructure, transport and regional development and Member for Ballarat Catherine King called on the Government to match State funding of $4.5 million already committed to Bendigo Airport in 2019.

“It makes good economic sense for Bendigo, it makes good economic sense for regional development, for the state of Victoria and the Morrison Government should frankly just get on with it and fund it,” she said.