A Government commitment is required to shore up the future of Mornington Island with funding to fix the remote community’s airport needed urgently according to Member for Mount Isa Rob Katter.
Mornington Shire Council has indicated that a survey revealed a full remediation process was required for the airport’s runway, estimated to cost about $8.8 million.
Mr Katter said a fast-tracked response was required to ensure works were carried out before the wet season.
“There is a small window of opportunity to get these upgrades completed in the dry season – there must be swift action,” he said.
“We can’t afford to be languishing in the same position in six months’ time, with the runway still in a state of disrepair because of the slow wheels of bureaucracy and red tape.”
He said the upgrades need to be funded and completed before the wet season starts, which is likely to be in October.
Mr Katter said Government needs to recognise the importance of the airport for the people of Mornington Island.
“The airport is the lifeblood of Mornington Island.
“This is an opportunity for Government to allocate funds where they are desperately needed in the Gulf.
“Without a fully functional airport – the remote island community really is back in the stone age.”
Mr Katter has been pushing the issue of adequate access since damage to the runway was discovered on December 16, 2015.
He said he’s disappointed with the delayed response to the situation and said a quicker reply was required to commit to funding the airport repairs.
“The response was unacceptable earlier this year and had little regard for the community’s needs, leaving residents stranded on the island, or without access to their homes during the busy holiday period.
“We need to ensure Australia’s most isolated township has its voice heard and it’s made clear how important air access is for the community.”
He said Government must step up and recognise the need for a long-term vision for the sustainability of the community.
“The only way in and out of the island is by air – it brings in everything from the nurses, medical supplies and mail.”
Mr Katter applauded the efforts of Mornington Shire Council and the Transport and Main Roads (TMR) department to find a timely solution.
“I’m encouraged to hear from Mornington Shire Council that the government is willing to help.”
Mr Katter will continue to press the issue and has already held several meetings with Transport Minister Stirling Hinchcliffe and asked a question in Parliament last month.
