Nearly complete: Northern Constructions Group onsite at the Echuca Aerodrome where works are nearing completion.
Photo by
Michael Lloyd
Echuca Aerodrome’s major upgrades have begun, with work on the new helipad under way and the main runway starting this week as part of a multi-million-dollar upgrade.
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The Federal Government’s contribution of $2.35 million in funding was announced in early 2023 under round three of its Regional Airports Program.
This followed a decade of advocacy to ensure the continuation of vital air services for the people of Campaspe Shire and the surrounding areas.
The project’s estimated cost is $4.8 million, with council committing $2.45 million towards the project.
Big contribution: The Federal Government contributed $2.35 million towards the upgrade, with Campaspe Shire Council funding the other $2.45 million.
Photo by
Contributed
Campaspe Shire Mayor Rob Amos said the upgrade would enable the continuation of vital medical access to regional cross-border communities by providing a fit-for-purpose, safe and accessible airstrip and helicopter landing pad.
The work will involve the extension of the runway by 152 metres, widening the runway by an extra 3m and reconstructing the main runway to a standard to receive the heaviest current fixed-wing aircraft used by aeromedical services.
The new helipad will also be built to receive the heaviest current helicopters used by aeromedical services.
The project will include the installation of a shelter for use by aeromedical services and the reconstruction of sealed taxiways and aprons to receive the heaviest current fixed-wing aircraft by aeromedical services.
Exciting times: The Echuca Aero Club is based at the Echuca Aerodrome.
Photo by
Michael Lloyd
The need for facility upgrades had been identified during the past decade in consultation with key stakeholders, including Air Ambulance Victoria, Royal Flying Doctors Service and emergency services operators, as well as other airport user groups and the wider community.
Construction works on a new helipad began on January 22 and the remaining works, including the runway upgrade, began on Monday, March 4, with completion of the project estimated towards the middle of June.
Council has been consulting with user groups, including emergency services, since the middle of 2023 to ensure limited alternative landing arrangements and access for emergency services while construction is under way.
“The upgrade will ensure the aerodrome meets industry standards and remains operational, providing long-term sustainability while creating jobs and catering for the growth in population, tourism and recreational aircraft users,” Cr Amos said.
“Importantly, it will also ensure the community continues to receive urgent health and medical assistance when required, with the aerodrome being a key component of providing that service to the people of the region.”
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