Airfield Airside Works
The project is now complete comprising three milestones:
- the relocation of the Precision Approach Path lndicator at the southern end of the runway;
- the relocation of the existing threshold and runway lights; and
- new centreline and runway edge lighting which is supported by a new generator and electrical system for continued operation during loss of power supply.
On 12 November 2019 a successful flight test was conducted by a CASA flight test officer and as a result the runway and apron were put into service.
Runway 18/36 was extended to the south by an additional 120 metres taking the runway to a length to 1,644 metres enabling F100 aircraft capability. The runway upgrade also includes a larger aircraft turning node. The heavy aircraft apron is now complete enabling larger aircraft to utilise the area at the airport with final guidance lights on the apron to be installed in January 2020.
Commencement of Airport Terminal Building works
Kennett Builders are currently on site and have commenced stage 1 of the terminal build which will predominantly see the construction of the extension with the concrete slab expected to be poured by Christmas. During this phase visitors will see temporary fencing and some roadway diversions for passenger drop off. Demolition of some walls to the existing terminal will commence along with hoardings going up and some temporary male toilets installed.
Stage 2 will commence in early May 2020 and be completed by December 2020.
Kennett’s and the District Council of Grant are working hard to ensure the airport site remains user friendly and has low interference with passenger movements and businesses operating at the airport.
Council Chief Executive Officer, Mr Darryl Whicker, said that construction work will not impact on passenger flow and access. Customers will still have direct access to the airport and the departure and arrivals space along with the Aero Espresso Café and hire car outlets.
Mr Whicker went on to say, “Council thanks customers and stakeholders for their patience and understanding as these construction works continue over the next 12 months which will produce an amazing end result for the region.”
The terminal upgrade will see a redevelopment of the current terminal including two additional departure gates, an upgraded café space, carousel baggage collection and covered drop off and pick up zones. Ashley Halliday Architects’ innovative design will optimise traveller’s connection and experience with the Limestone Coast Region. The architecture comfortably introduces and immerses travellers to the region with the unique natural, geological, cultural and historical features, encouraging people to visit, re-visit and engage with the diverse environment, culture, and commerce.
Member for Barker Tony Pasin said he is excited to see the project taking shape. “Each project milestone reached is a step closer to the benefits that this project will bring to the Limestone Coast region. The multi-million dollar airport upgrade will have significant flow-on effects from better business connections to increased tourism visitor numbers.
“Our Government supported this project with $3.5 million because it fits into our plan to create more jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger regional communities across Australia,” Mr Pasin said.
The Mount Gambier Regional Airport Upgrade is funded by the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund in partnership with the South Australian State Government.
