Future of regional airport takes centrestage

The District Council of Grant has revealed its newest Draft Mount Gambier Regional Airport Master Plan for 2025 to 2035 and is now asking for feedback.

At the October 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting, the document was presented and approved for community consultation after being developed alongside key aviation stakeholders.

District Council of Grant Mayor Kylie Boston said over the past 12 months council had worked with community and business representatives in an Aviator’s Jury, elected members and council staff to consider the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the airport, future projects and the facility’s overall direction.

“The Aviator’s Jury combined Airport tenants, people will a passion for aviation and aviation specialists who helped shape shared short-term, long-term and advocacy projects for the next 10 years,” Mayor Boston said.

“I would like to thank those who have contributed through the engagement process already and encourage others interested to provide your feedback.”

District Council of Grant chief executive officer Darryl Whicker said the draft document aims to ensure the continual improvement, sustainability, accountability and growth of the facility.

“The Draft Mount Gambier Regional Airport Master Plan stems from Council’s core strategic document, the Strategic Plan 2024 – 2034. The proposed projects complement and aims to achieve our 5 goals under Community, Economy, Environment, Infrastructure and Council.” Mr Whicker said.

The Draft Mount Gambier Regional Airport Master Plan 2025 – 2035 describes key short-term projects for Council to action in the next 1 to 5 years including, but not limited to, a playground, increasing renewable energy systems and carpark extension.

Further long-term projects are also detailed to work towards over the next 5 to 10 years which include various runway extensions and resurfacing, development of an onsite commercial precinct and public toilet refurbishment.

The District Council of Grant will also advocate for projects such as an airport history and display trial, flying school and increased tourism throughout the Limestone Coast in partnership with key stakeholders.

Mount Gambier Regional Airport manager Nick Serle said the development of the new Airport Master Plan came after identifying that a majority of actions within the previous Master Plan have been completed.

“The new Airport Master Plan has a strong focus on activating the whole Mount Gambier Regional Airport facility which aims to give passengers, their families and friends something extra to do while at the terminal,” Mr Serle said.

Feedback on the Draft Mount Gambier Regional Airport Master Plan 2025 – 2035 will be accepted until 5pm on Friday, November 22.

community members are encouraged to find our more online at Your Say DCG (Draft Mount Gambier Regional Airport Master Plan 2025 – 2035 | Your Say DCG).

Hard copies of the Draft Mount Gambier Regional Airport Master Plan 2025 – 2035 and feedback form are available from the Principal Office at 324 Commercial Street West, Mount Gambier and Mount Gambier Regional Airport on Airport Road, Wandilo.