Some of the local contractor companies benefiting from the Airport Runway Upgrade Project included SMS Geotechnical, Enviro Sweep, Blackwoods, Boral, Zancott, Minespec, Rabig Bulk Haulage, Bianco and Alexander Symonds Surveying, as well as a host of others.
Local contractors benefit from Whyalla Airport Runway Upgrade
The Whyalla Airport Runway Upgrade Project has had a major impact on the Whyalla economy, with nearly $4 million directly injected into local contractors and suppliers.
Whyalla City Council and lead contractor Fulton Hogan worked closely to maximise the project’s benefits for the city, ensuring that local businesses and workers were at the centre of the upgrade.
The project created 110 jobs for locals—around half of the total workforce—while also delivering broader flow-on benefits. With Fulton Hogan’s crew based in Whyalla for seven months, the company’s presence contributed substantially to the city’s hospitality and retail sectors through ongoing spending on food, accommodation, and other services.
In addition to the runway works, Fulton Hogan also gave back to the community by donating their time and materials to reseal the Civic Park carpark.
Mayor Phill Stone said the upgrade’s benefits extended far beyond the airport itself.
“It was fantastic to see such strong local contractor involvement in the project,” Mayor Stone said.
“As well as the usual construction and project contractors, it was also significant for local hospitality due to the size of Fulton Hogan’s crew and the length of the project, so I’d like to commend Fulton Hogan for their focus on local talent and supporting local businesses.”
Rabig Bulk Haulage Managing Director Matt Wauchope said the project was significant for his business.
“The project came at a good time, as it provided work for local businesses over a seven-month period after what had been a difficult year in 2024,“ Mr Wauchope said.
“Fulton Hogan were also great to work with. We couldn’t have been happier with the outcomes of the project and how it benefited local business.”