LNP’s funding promise for CQ’s ‘gateway’ to agriculture, resources and defence industries
A $20m election pledge for Rockhampton Airport has been described as a “game changer” for creating new jobs and business opportunities at the thriving regional freight centre.
Central Queensland
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A $20m election pledge for Rockhampton Airport has been touted as a potential “game changer” for creating new jobs and business opportunities at the thriving regional freight centre by Capricornia MP Michelle Landry.
Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development spokeswoman Senator Bridget McKenzie joined Ms Landry in Rockhampton on Tuesday to unveil the Opposition’s $20 million commitment to the airport, which comes as an election date announcement looms.
They said it would help kick start the development of a dedicated freight hub, boosting investment potential in Central Queensland’s agriculture and export industries.
Ms Landry said the funding would also expand the airport’s tarmac footprint with the construction of a seventh bay (Bay 7), increasing capacity for larger aircraft and improving operational efficiency and increasing air traffic during major military exercises such as Exercise Wallaby and Talisman Sabre.
She said it would also lay the groundwork for the freight hub to connect Central Queensland’s world-class beef and agricultural products to global markets faster and more efficiently.
Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams said Bay 7 was a big investment into the region’s future.
“This infrastructure is not only critical to our economic development through unlocking future freight and export potential; but also assists Rockhampton Airport manage operations during military exercises,” he said.
“This year we will see expanded exercises including Talisman Sabre and Exercise Wallaby and with that comes increased aircraft and operational pressures.
“Bay 7 will help improve capacity and provide greater flexibility to manage peak congestion periods.
“It’s a great win for our airport and a great win for our region.”
Senator McKenzie said the investment in Rockhampton Airport was an investment in long-term jobs for the region.
“This infrastructure investment will help local businesses access national and international markets, strengthening the regional economy and secure Rockhampton as a key freight centre in Central Queensland,” she said.
Ms Landry said Rockhampton Airport was a key economic driver for Central Queensland and the “beating heart of our region’s transport network”, recording more than half a million passenger movements annually.
She said the airport was already supporting major airlines and accommodating widebody aircraft.
Ms Landry said the Federal Government had invested more than $44 million in federal funding for Rockhampton Airport over the past decade, delivering “critical infrastructure upgrades and supported local employment”.
She said the latest commitment would further solidify its role as a central gateway for Queensland’s agriculture, resources, and defence industries.
“Rockhampton Airport has the potential to be a major freight and transport hub, and I am committed to making that vision a reality,” she said.
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