Photo caption: Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton (left) with Mayor of Bogan Shire Council, Glen Neill (centre), and General Manager, Derek Francis (right), in April.

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton has today welcomed the announcement of successful applicants for Round 10 of the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program, which includes funding for Nyngan Airport.

Mr Coulton said Bogan Shire Council has received $116,550 to undertake a lighting upgrade at Nyngan Airport.

“I’m pleased to see Bogan Shire Council is among the recipients of the Australian Government’s Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program,” Mr Coulton said.

“I recently met with the Mayor and General Manager of Bogan Shire Council, who had been anxiously waiting for this funding so that they can begin upgrading the lighting at Nyngan Airport, to enable planes to safely land at night.

“This funding will contribute to the costs needed for that upgrade which will ensure the Nyngan Airport is compliant with safety standards.

“It’s so important for our rural aerodromes to remain operational for the delivery of essential supplies, particularly for access to life-saving medical services like the Royal Flying Doctors.”

The funding announcement comes after Mr Coulton last week called out the Labor Government for delaying these critical grants.

“I’m glad the Labor Government has heeded our calls and finally released this funding, months after applications closed,” he said.

“At least now, the successful recipients can get on with the job of improving their airstrips.

“However, I am disappointed that Bogan Shire Council was the only recipient in New South Wales.

“I know for a fact that numerous other councils in my electorate applied for this funding and have unfortunately missed out. I’m hoping that further funding for the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program will be made available in next week’s Federal Budget.”

For more information on the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program, visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure-transport-vehicles/aviation/regional-remote-aviation/remote-airstrip-upgrade