Aeromedical flights and other important services to the remote Western Australian town of Norseman will be safeguarded thanks to an extension and upgrade of an airstrip in the Goldfields-Esperance town.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government’s Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program was improving the delivery of essential goods and services to Australia’s remote areas.
“By increasing the height of the runways, taxiways and apron areas, this project has improved safety and access for aircraft approaching and departing from the airstrip, especially in turbulent conditions,” Mr McCormack said.
WA Minister for Regional Development Alannah MacTiernan said the Western Australian Government’s $1.9 million investment in the new airstrip would help to drive economic opportunity in the region.
“As the gateway to Western Australia, it is important that the Norseman community, visitors and road users are provided with increased accessibility to emergency services in all-weather conditions.
“Upgrades to the airfield will also provide opportunities for increased local economic benefits, particularly supporting the region’s growing mining sector.”
Federal Member for O’Connor Rick Wilson said the new aerodrome would improve safety and access, especially during inclement weather when the airstrip would otherwise become unusable.
“The installation of line-marking along the new pavement surfaces, including the strip and runway and other aviation markers, will help ensure a safe landing and take-off,” Mr Wilson said.
Dundas Shire President Laurene Bonza said the works were completed last year.
“We cannot overstate the importance of airfields to help connect our remote communities to the rest of Australia – this upgrade will help our community continue to prosper,” Cr Bonza said.
This project was jointly funded, with the Australian Government committing $1.7 million, the Western Australian Government committing $1.9 million and the Shire of Dundas committing $1.6 million.
