Improving services

Airport partnership looking to consolidate workforce

The District Council of Grant and Glenelg Shire Council have joined forces to ensure consistent service levels are met for regional air travellers.

Staff at the council owned and operated airports, Mount Gambier Regional Airport and Portland Airport, identified an opportunity to reduce the risk of staffing shortfalls, which has resulted in a joint agreement to upskill existing airport personnel enabling them to work across both locations when the need arises.

All airports across Australia have a legislative obligation to maintain operational standards as set by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).

These operational standards require daily inspection of airport runways, taxiway, lighting, weather reporting and navigation aids to ensure serviceability.

Additional inspections are carried out ensuring airport security and management of wildlife.

The newly executed Memorandum of Understanding will ensure that CASA’s provisions are safely and efficiently carried out in the event that regular airport employees are absent.

District Council of Grant chief executive office Darryl Whicker said the partnership provides an opportunity to continue to build a strong relationship with the neighbouring council.

“Borders are no barrier to collaboration – it’s terrific to be working alongside the Glenelg Shire Council to ensure long-term resilience for both the Mount Gambier Regional Airport and Portland Airport,” Mr Whicker said.

“This collaboration will enable mutual learnings and establish longevity for our airport operations.”

Glenelg Shire Council acting chief executive officer David Hol echoed Mr Whicker’s statement.

“The Memorandum of Understanding is a fantastic outcome in ensuring skilled labour is available for business continuity, and developing collaborative relationships to improve operational requirements.” Mr Hol said.

Information regarding the Mount Gambier Regional Airport’s flight schedule and passenger facilities can be found online at the District Council of Grant website – www.dcgrant.sa.gov.au/services/mount-gambier-regional-airport. Additional information regarding the Portland Airport facility can be found online at the Glenelg Shire Council website – www.glenelg.vic.gov.au/Our-Services/Airports

IMPROVING SERVICES: (Above) District Council of Grant chief executive officer Darryl Whicker, airport reporting officer Bob Rowe, and airport manager Nick Serle at the Mount Gambier Regional Airport entrance.

JOINING FORCES: (Below) Glenelg Shire Council acting chief executive officer David Hol and airport manager Samantha Kohlman at the Portland Airport entrance.