It's the culmination of several years of campaigning by Edward River Council, NSW Member for Murray Helen Dalton, and Deniliquin business owner Russell Tait.
The upgrades will extend runway 06/24 by 381m, upgrade the taxiway for larger aircraft, install new aeronautical lighting systems, add critical infrastructure to support emergency services, freight, tourism and new aviation technologies.
There will also be additional aircraft parking near the terminal, solar-powered lighting for runway 12/30, an illuminated wind direction indicator, an upgraded Automated Weather Information System, and precision approach path indicator lighting to assist pilots with landing.
The grant of $4,575,000 from the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s Airstrip Improvements in Rural and Remote NSW Program will fund the entire project.
Edward River Council CEO Jack Bond and Mayor Ashley Hall said reliable air access is critical for timely delivery of health care, emergency services and economic participation, including tourism.
“This will be vital in keeping our community connected, safe and open for business,” Mr Bond said.
“Council consulted with emergency services, freight operators, businesses and the aero club to make sure these upgrades meet real-world needs now and into the future.”
Cr Hall said the airstrip design is being upgraded with capacity to accommodate future growth, including the landing of larger aircraft, emergency response operations, and evolving aviation technologies such as drone logistics.
“This will help to ensure Deniliquin is ready for what’s next - from medical to commercial and community uses - and will deliver maximum return on this investment.”
Mrs Dalton said she was pleased the NSW Government had listened to the needs of the Deniliquin community.
“This is a fantastic outcome,” she said.
“Our community has been asking for these upgrades for years, and I’m proud that we’ve been able to secure this funding to make Deniliquin safer, more connected, and ready for future opportunities.
“The upgrades will improve safety and operational efficiency, ensure air ambulance access in all weather conditions, strengthen Deniliquin’s role as a regional hub for tourism, freight and essential services.”
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