The runway at Kyneton Aero Club will be extended and resealed following a federal government cash injection for the airport.
Kyneton Aero Club is one of nine regional Victorian airports to share in $4.5 million from the government’s regional airports program.
Kyneton received $413,500 for work on the runway and to help seal taxiways, increase the tarmac area around the refuelling bay and the installation of a dedicated helipad for emergency services rotary aircraft.
Extending the runway will accommodate larger aircraft used for aeromedical flights and fire-fighting operations, improving safety, operational efficiency and emergency response capabilities at the airfield, the government said.
Sealing the taxiway will help to prevent damage to aircraft and will make the airport operational in all weather conditions.
The works will cost $827,000, with the Kyneton Aero Club to match the government’s investment..
The government said airports are vital for regional communities, providing critical access to emergency healthcare, as well as commerce, industry, tourism and education.
Bendigo MP Lisa Chester said it is important that Kyneton residents have access to medical and fire-fighting aircraft via the airport.
“This grant enables the capability of these services,” she said.
“This keeps Kyneton residents safer and makes the region more resilient in the face of natural disasters.
“The Kyneton Aero Club have an extensive list of members and I’m so pleased for everybody involved with the club following the successful application.”
Kyneton Aero Club general committee member Sophia Eldridge said the club was thrilled to receive the grant.
“With the $413,500 grant, we’re excited to transform our airfield into a safer and more efficient space for the vital aero-medical and fire services that keep our community protected,” she said.
“We are excited and grateful that the needs of our community are being seen, and decisive action has been taken to support us to enhance safety measures and access to emergency services.”
