The Regional Airports Program is now open for applications and could provide an avenue for the Scenic Rim Regional Council and Boonah Aviation Incorporated (BAI) to partner with the Federal Government on airfield upgrades, Wright MP Scott Buchholz announced late last week.

“The Regional Airports Program supports productivity and safety upgrades at regional airports around the country,” Mr Buchholz said.

He also confirmed he had been talking with both Council and BAI in relation to putting forward an application.

“Safety is paramount and there are costs associated with any safety upgrades that need to be met.

“I know Council is working closely with BAI and I invite them to apply for funding, to assist them in ensuring a safe operating environment and help meet any costs.”

The Regional Airports Program opened yesterday and provides grants of between $20,000 and $5 million on a 50 percent funding basis.

“I am a big supporter of the Boonah airfield and I’m acutely aware of the extensive community interest in ensuring the airfield remains open, as well as the benefits to the local community and the broader Scenic Rim,” Mr Buchholz said.

“The regional airports program can help deliver upgrades and offset the costs, with funding available for many different projects such as runway and taxiing upgrades, safety and operational training and installation of animal fencing.”

Mr Buchholz said he was aware of the level of speculation in the district about the future of the airfield, but was confident all parties were working hard in the interests of getting a deal done.

“The airport attracts tourists, those interested in adventure sports, recreational aviation and of course, pilot training and aircraft maintenance,” Mr Buchholz said.

The grant program is a competitive process through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development.

“Applications will be independently assessed on merit as they come in from across Australia,” he said.

“Any local application under this program has my full and undivided support, it is important for our community and economy to work toward improving and maintaining the Boonah airfield,” Mr Buchholz said.