Airport Officially Takes Flight
Whyalla’s new state-of-the-art airport is now officially open!
Dignitaries, contractors, airport staff, emergency services and commuters today gathered in the departure lounge for the official ceremony.
Proceedings began with proud Barngarla woman, Zena Wingfield, welcoming guests to Barngarla country – acknowledging the land that our new airport proudly resides on – before Mayor Clare McLaughlin and Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey officially opened the facility with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.
Mayor McLaughlin acknowledged all the work and support by Qantas and REX staff, extended airport staff and contractors that have worked together as a team to deliver this project through all the challenges in the last year.
“We now have a modern, future-proofed facility to not only cater for the locals, tourists and visiting professionals of today; but also the anticipated increases associated with industrial and tourism growth in the years ahead,” Mayor McLaughlin said.
“This new facility further positions Whyalla to capitalise on these numerous growth opportunities, with airports playing an essential role in catering for both industrial and tourism needs.
“We plan to one day have flights direct into Whyalla from capital cities other than Adelaide, helping tourists and businesspeople from across the nation arrive in Whyalla with even greater ease.”
Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey MP said it was “a red-letter day for Whyalla”, highlighting how important this facility is for the community of Whyalla and the broader region.
The $12.1 million, Federal-Government-funded upgrade has created an expanded terminal with enhanced facilities and improved safety and security measures that now comply with new Federal Government standards.
Mayor McLaughlin said the finished product was a credit to the contractors that completed the project during a very challenging time.
“In particular, this facility is a credit to local industry, with the project using local steel and labour, helping maximise benefits for the local economy,” she said.
Further works still to be completed as part of the Federal funding include:
- Upgrades to runways, lighting, taxi ways and aprons (including improved emergency-service access)
- Alternate runway with extension of current dirt strip