Wednesday, 8 August 2012
The Tamworth Regional Airport passenger terminal and security upgrade was officially opened by Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Anthony Albanese in Tamworth today.
The Minister was joined by Member of New England, Tony Windsor MP, Mayor Col Murray and Airport Manager Michael Dubois to open the $4million terminal extension and state of the art security upgrade. The Federal Government contributed $970,000.00 to the upgrade.
Minister Albanese congratulated Mayor Col Murray, Airport Manager Michael Dubois, Council and Airport staff on a great job.
“The newly revamped Tamworth Regional Airport will make the flying experience safer and more comfortable for passengers travelling to and from one of Australia's biggest regional centres,” Mr Albanese said.
The upgrade began in January 2012 with the original concept designs produced by Air Biz Aero, with National Buildplan Group awarded the construction contract. The works were completed by June 2012 to meet the deadline of the strengthening of Aviation Security Initiative. Security screening commenced on July 1.
Mr. Dubois thanked National Build Plan Group for their involvement in the project. 'Their professionalism during the building works ensured that we achieved the completion date and minimised disruptions to the travelling public.'
Tamworth Mayor Col Murray said the completed upgrade work reinforces Tamworth Regional Airport's reputation as one of the leading regional airports in New South Wales.
'Over the past six months, it has been pleasing to see the transformation of the passenger terminal which has taken place largely through the financial support of the Federal Government,' Cr Murray said.
'The importance of Tamworth Regional Airport to the local community and its economy cannot be underestimated.'
'It is a vital hub for our thriving aviation industry as well as other business, tourism and recreation - in the last financial year the total passenger numbers increased 1.6 per cent to 155,980.' Councillor Murray said.
Tamworth Airport is Australia's largest regional airport and is the gateway to the New England region. The airport receives tens of thousands of visitors every year.