Flinders Island Council has received a substantial grant of $2.68 million from the Australian Government to undertake “urgent” upgrades to the island’s ageing airport.
The investment will enable the council to complete the first stage of a two-stage improvement plan, which includes modernising the airport’s electrical system, installing new lighting and constructing a new operations office.
Mayor Rachel Summers described the funding as a “lifeline” for the island and a crucial step towards enhancing the airport’s functionality.
“We’ve been fighting for our community to secure critical funding for our island home’s only airport and the announcement today is a great step forward,” Summers said.
The council will now approach the Tasmanian Government for an additional $320,000 contribution to reach the $3 million target for stage one.
Summers said upgrading the airport is important, particularly stage two works, which will involve resurfacing and reconstructing the runway at a cost of over $23 million.
“We’re an island community, so everyone who comes to Flinders relies on this airport,” she said.
“It’s not just critical for our residents, tourists and local economy. It is also critical infrastructure for lifesaving services like the Royal Flying Doctors Services and other emergency services.”
