SEVEN years ago Cobden airport had a gravel strip and no lighting – today the committee is working hard to get a new 30-seat terminal built.
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The Cobden Airport committee say a terminal is needed to meet the demands of a growing community asset which services Corangamite and some neighboring shires.
The committee has worked with Corangamite Shire who have made a submission to Regional Development Victoria for $300,000 of funding.
The committee, through community fundraising, would raise an additional $100,000 needed to see the project achieved.
Airport reporting officer and committee member Warren Ponting said so far the committee had already raised $40,000 towards the development.
Mr Ponting said the project would bring major commercial and economical benefits to Cobden and the shire.
“We’re the closest airport to the Twelve Apostles,” he said.
He said the terminal could also be used as a command for emergency services.
Mr Ponting said the airport was used weekly by the air ambulance.
“It’s secure and private for the air ambulance to land,” he said.
Mr Ponting said the terminal would include toilets, a small information desk and aero club rooms with a kitchen and dining area.
He said the planned building could also accommodate a pilot and command centre during an emergency.
“It would certainly open up a lot of opportunities,” he said.
Mr Ponting said community involvement and council support would ensure the project was completed.
“Five years ago we didn’t have a sealed strip,” he said. “We’ve got fully sealed and wider runway.
“We’ve got pilot activated lighting so pilots can radio ahead and get lights turned on.”
Corangamite councillor Neil Trotter said the airport was an important asset for the shire.
“Strategically it’s important for the shire,” he said.
“It’s an asset which services the whole shire.”