GA to get some priority in the Geelong area

A study into the Geelong region's airport requirements for the next 30 to 50 years was released late last week by Victoria's Minister for the Aviation Industry, Gordon Rich-Phillips.

The Geelong Regional Airport Feasibility Study was commissioned earlier this year by the Victorian Coalition Government in conjunction with the City of Greater Geelong.

The study was launched in response to the impending closure of the Geelong Airport at Grovedale which will be redeveloped as part of the Armstrong Creek housing development.

The study, which fulfils the Coalition Government’s election commitment, considers the immediate issues and wider needs of the region’s aviation growth in the long term.

The study recommends:

*   that the City of Greater Geelong, Avalon Airport and the Victorian Government collaborate to develop a long term development plan at Avalon   Airport to attract and accommodate commercial segments of the general  aviation market;

*   that the State Government and City of Greater Geelong assist Lethbridge Airpark (pictured) in submitting an application to the Regional Aviation Fund for  runway and lighting upgrades;

*   and   that the City of Greater Geelong undertakes a detailed site study of the  Gheringhap area as a possible future airport site to safeguard land should the development of such a facility become necessary between now and 2060.

“Noting the importance of general aviation needs to the area, the Coalition Government, City of Greater Geelong and local stakeholders have worked together to undertake this feasibility study and deliver real options for the future,” Mr Rich-Phillips said.

“Geelong’s airport has provided important opportunities for charter, pilot training, tourism and recreational aviation activities and emergency services access for the region.

“The new feasibility study outlines a range of options for replacing this key piece of infrastructure.

“The Victorian Government looks forward to working with the Geelong community to address its long term aviation needs.”