Part of new airport terminal opens

THE second half of the Bendigo Airport terminal expansion is underway with a new entry foyer, baggage check-in, baggage claim and toilets to be constructed at the East Bendigo location.

Stage one of the works, which opened on Sunday, have seen a departure lounge, cafe, security area, offices, and equipment shed built next to the old terminal, and additional facilities will take its place following demolition.

The new buildings will then be joined together to make one larger structure when completed.

City of Greater Bendigo mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said the update will mean a better overall experience for travellers who use the facility.

“The first half of the new terminal building is more spacious and features improved amenities,” she said.

“It offers a better passenger experience and I really look forward to seeing the project completed in December.”

The full project had an estimated cost of $9.895 million with $4.5 million coming from both the Federal and State governments.

State Minister for Regional Development, Harriet Shing, said the new terminal will be a boon for the whole state when finished.

“It’s great to see the Bendigo Airport terminal expansion nearing its completion,” she said.

“This will deliver enormous benefits for the growing number of people travelling in and out of regional Victoria.”

The City of Greater Bendigo was initially expected to contribute $895,000 to the project but due to cost blowout, an extra $2.1 million of ratepayers’ money was allocated to the works as part of the 2023/24 budget.

Cr Metcalf said the construction was helping employ local people in multiple areas.

“I am delighted that this project has engaged nine local businesses providing concreting, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, flooring, glass and steel supply services,” she said.

“There have been about three staff from each business working on site, together with the main contractor Nicholson Construction as well as other subcontractors.”