Airport revamp takes off

THE new and improved Mareeba Airport will officially open today, concluding $23 million of works and heralding a potential 400 new jobs.

Stage two of the project added 350m to the runway, strengthened sections of tarmac, built 1100m of new taxiways and installed airfield lighting.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure Michael McCormack said the project would provide many benefits to the Far North.

“This investment will produce crucial benefits to the region as it will operate as an effective facility for use in the case of regional disaster management and provide an alternative to the nearby Cairns Airport,” he said.

“By supporting 55 jobs in construction and creating an expected 400 ongoing jobs after completion, in addition to using local businesses and supplies, this project will help bring economic prosperity to Mareeba for many years to come.”

North Queensland LNP Senator Susan McDonald, said the upgrade would raise demand for skilled aircraft engineers and take advantage of growing international demand for pilot training.

“Mareeba Airport will be used by maintenance crews, trainee pilots, the North Queensland Aero Club, FIFO mine workers, agricultural freight movers, air show pilots, and general aviation,” she said.

Mareeba Shire Mayor, Tom Gilmore, said it was a landmark moment for the Shire.

Stage one of the upgrade was completed earlier in the year. The State Government contributed $13 million total to the project, while the Federal Government contributed a further $10 million.