Businesses, tourism operators and emergency services that rely on the Portland Airport will continue flying through the south coast, thanks to a services upgrade supported by the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney today announced the completion of upgrades to the airport’s AvGas fuel purchasing system, which is the only one in the Glenelg Shire.
The Labor Government provided $17,615 through the Portland Diversification Fund to upgrade the old system, which stopped working on October 30 when the 3G network was switched off across Australia.
The new EFTPOS system is compatible with the 5G network and will ensure the airport maintains the ability to sell aviation fuel while upholding industry operational and safety expectations.
Built in 1982 to support growing business demand from the aluminum industry, Portland Airport now services customers including the Port of Portland, the renewables industry, manufacturing, mining, forestry and agricultural sectors.
It is one of only five security-controlled regional airports in Victoria and is a base for services including commercial and charter flights, firefighting aircraft, Royal Flying Doctor services, and environmental work including whale surveys.
The airport is also a major gateway to some of Australia’s greatest tourist attractions including the Great Ocean Road, Grampians ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Park, Coonawarra wine region and the Limestone Coast.
The grant was awarded to Portland Aero Club, a non-profit community organisation that took responsibility for the aviation fuel service from Glenelg Shire Council in 2014.
The Portland Diversification Fund looks to leverage existing and emerging opportunities to maximise the benefits of economic diversification, growth, and resilience in the Portland and broader Glenelg Shire economies.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has invested a record $45 billion in projects and programs designed to support regional and rural Victorian cities and towns to be even better places to live, work, stay and play.
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As stated by Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney
“Having the right infrastructure in place to help our regional communities and industries thrive is essential, and it’s great to see the Portland Airport will remain an accessible key asset for the greater region.”
“The Portland Aero Club has done an amazing job ensuring that the airport is future-proofed and is able to serve Portland’s growing and changing industries well into the future.”
As stated by Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora
“This upgrade ensures Portland Airport remains a vital hub for local businesses, emergency services, and tourism operators, keeping our region connected and thriving.”
As stated by Portland Aero Club president Peter Tapscott
“The Portland Aero Club greatly appreciates that the Victorian Government and RDV consider the Portland Airport to be a vital piece of infrastructure.”
“The Club is grateful to receive this funding to assist in the necessary upgrades to the fuelling facility.”
