Bendigo Airport has recently undergone a major upgrade, providing a new terminal and business park which are set to boost the region’s economy.
The almost $12 million project is a joint initiative between all three levels of government, with the Federal and Victorian Governments investing $4.5 million each and the City of Greater Bendigo contributing $3 million.
The terminal – which is approximately four times larger than the previous building – includes new check-in facilities and departure lounge, upgraded restrooms, provision for future security screening, and an indoor arrival area and baggage collection.
The project also features a 183-space carpark along with an expanded apron that can fit two 70-seat aircraft, allowing the airport to include new airlines and future flights to new destinations.
Bendigo’s emergency services facilities have been bolstered through the addition of a new helipad that can accommodate a wide array of emergency service helicopters, such as flood and fire response, as well as military and police activity.
This was funded by a separate grant of $300,000 from the Federal Government’s Regional Airports Program.
A special feature of the airport is the landscaping and interpretive signage prepared by Djandak. Djaara woman Timani Nicholls-Moore provided cultural and creative direction around the garden design and, together with Djaara man Andrew Saunders, provided cultural advice for the signage.
Premier of Victoria and Member for Bendigo East, Jacinta Allan, said that there is so much to see and do in Bendigo and this new terminal will mean more visitors can experience everything the vibrant regional city has to offer.
“This revamp will not only provide better access to the airport but is supporting jobs for our local community,” Ms Allan said.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said that this is a great boost for Bendigo, not only for better air links and facilities but also for local jobs, with up to 19 ongoing jobs expected to be created by 2030.
“This project will boost tourism and the local economy for Bendigo, with the airport’s apron expansion allowing more aircraft and extra space for other airlines, meaning more flights to more destinations in the future,” Ms King said.
Victorian Minister for Regional Development, Gayle Tierney, said that it is fantastic to see government support for the Bendigo Airport terminal expansion helping more passengers than ever before to enjoy a brand-new airport experience.
“This upgrade is another way we are backing Greater Bendigo’s economy for years to come,” Ms Tierney said.
Member for Bendigo West, Maree Edwards, said that she is thrilled to witness the culmination of the government’s investment in the Bendigo Airport upgrade, boosting regional infrastructure, transport connectivity and economic prosperity for the community.
Acting Dja Dja Wurrung Group CEO, Cassandra Lewis. Said that as custodians of Dja Dja Wurrung Country, Dja Dja Wurrung Group has a cultural responsibility to welcome visitors.
“We are pleased to share some of our Country and Culture through landscaping and interpretive signage, and hope airport users enjoy this space,” Ms Lewis said.
City of Greater Bendigo Mayor, Andrea Metcalf, said that thanks to the Bendigo to Sydney Qantas service and the new terminal building, the convenience of travelling from Bendigo Airport has never been easier.
“Projects of this scale are not only an investment in local infrastructure, a valuable transport service and future business opportunities, they deliver real local employment opportunities and represent an investment in the skills and capability of local industry.”
Featured image: The airport opening was attended by, from left: Federal Minister for Infrastructure Catherine King, Federal Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters, Bendigo Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf, Premier for Victoria and Member for Bendigo East the Hon. Jacinta Allan, Member for Bendigo West the Hon. Maree Edwards, and City of Greater Bendigo CEO Andrew Cooney. Image: City of Greater Bendigo. Image credit: City of Greater Bendigo.
