One of the remote airstrips in New South Wales has been upgraded, to support outback communities and services including the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson said the NSW government has invested A$720,000 in the Tibooburra community, by upgrading the runway and taxiways at Tibooburra Aerodrome.
“It is important to keep our regional and remote communities safe and connected. Tibooburra Aerodrome is located on Crown land, about 1,200 km from Sydney in the far north west corner of the state and connects remote communities and landowners with the rest of NSW and Australia,” Anderson said. “Tibooburra Aerodrome also allows organisations like the Royal Flying Doctor Service, NSW Police, Rural Fire Service, the Flying Padre and tourist operators to access the far north west, to provide vital services to residents and support the outback economy.”
Tibooburra’s main 976-metre runway, taxiway and apron areas have been given a fresh bitumen seal with new aggregate laid, followed by new line markings to guide aircraft when landing and taking off. The NSW government commissioned Downer Group to undertake the work, employing a crew of about 16 people, including engineers, truck drivers, spray operators, roller operators and logistics personnel. Further support was provided by contractors from the Broken Hill region to procure aggregate and transport services.
Tibooburra Aerodrome reporting officer John Ainsworth said the upgrade was very welcome. “We get high summer temperatures in the late 40’s and erratic storms that can take their toll on the sealed runway over time, so it needs to be upgraded to keep it in top shape for the safe use of aircraft,” Ainsworth said.
Royal Flying Doctor Service (South Eastern Section) CEO Greg Sam said maintaining remote airstrips like Tibooburra is critical for the service’s operations. “Tibooburra Aerodrome provides an all-weather strip that can be used anytime, night or day to provide emergency support for the community when needed,” Sam said. “While emergency retrievals are at the heart of our service we also provide a range of other health services including GP clinics, dental care, mental health support, alcohol and drug services, and COVID-19 support including vaccinations.”
For Editorial Inquiries Contact:
Editor Matt Driskill at matt.driskill@asianaviation.com
For Advertising Inquiries Contact:
Head of Sales Kay Rolland at kay.rolland@asianaviation.com
