Mackay Airport secures $45m funding loan to expand runways, build precinct
Mackay’s airport is about to have spending spree and upgrade after securing a $45m windfall. See plans for the new precinct and runway.
Mackay
Don't miss out on the headlines from Mackay. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A new precinct is going to be built next to Mackay’s airport after a $45m loan was approved.
Coming from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, the money will be used to upgrade the runway, apron and taxiway surfaces and launch the Milton Street Precinct, a retail and entertainment hub outside the terminal.
First pitched 10 years ago, the plans and approvals are now aligned with Mackay Regional Council.
The initial phase of the Milton Street Precinct will involve construction of roads and connection of services, creating 25,000 sqm of serviced lots.
North Queensland Airports Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said the loan would unlock the next phase of growth at Mackay Airport.
“The extensive infrastructure upgrades that will be assisted by this loan across the next five years will set us up for ongoing success as our community develops and grows,” he said.
“This loan recognises our airport’s critical role across the region, contributing to industry development, tourism, freight and more.”
Mr Barker said the precinct’s highly visible and central location was 3km from Mackay’s CBD.
“This is a rare and long-term opportunity for companies to get in on the ground floor and develop their business as part of the prosperous Mackay region, on a premier site,” he said.
The funding for the Mackay Airport upgrades forms part of a broad NAIF loan of up to $155m for North Queensland Airports, the operator of both Mackay and Cairns airports.
Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, Madeleine King, said the investment was fantastic news for those living and working in North Queensland.
“This funding will help make air travel faster and easier for people in North Queensland, connecting families and businesses to the rest of Queensland, the nation and the world.
“Projects like this strengthen the economy of Northern Australia. And a strong north means a strong Australia.”
Stolen firearms missing after skateboard used to pinch safe
A burglar who used a skateboard to slide a safe out of a Queensland home was caught with his fingerprints at the scene — but multiple stolen guns are still in the community for Christmas.
Qld teen, 14, taking solo Japanese adventure
A Mackay teen is preparing to spend the next 12 months away from her family, living and going to school in Japan as the youngest in her program. See what she hopes to gain.