Parkes Shire Council is proud to announce the official opening of the Robert Wilson Terminal and the completed upgrades to the Parkes Regional Airport.
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The regional airport will open its doors officially this Thursday (June 16), in conjunction with an opening ceremony and dedication to former Parkes Shire Council Mayor, the late Robert Wilson OAM.
Dignitaries and special guests will be present on the day, including Federal Member of the Riverina Michael McCormack MP, Robert Wilson's family, and Parkes Shire Councillors.
“Council believes it is fitting to dedicate the Parkes Regional Airport Terminal to our former Mayor Robert Wilson OAM,” Parkes Mayor Ken Keith OAM said.
“During his long and successful Local Government career, Cr Wilson took a keen interest in promoting economic development throughout our shire.
“We as a council are thrilled to commemorate our exciting new Terminal upgrade in honour of him,” the Mayor said.
“It's a fitting tribute to his legacy here in Parkes and we are delighted his family have accepted our request to name the new airport terminal the Robert Wilson Terminal.
“Like the former Mayor's great foresight the new Terminal has been designed for the future,” Cr Keith added.
The new terminal has the ability to house security screening and a two gate access system as well as a number of additional benefits including new amenities, wireless NBN technologies and a large public space for flexibility and passenger comfort.
The upgrade to the terminal is part of the $3 million redevelopment of Parkes Regional Airport which is jointly being funded by Parkes Shire Council, the Australian Government, through their Community Development Grants Programme and the New South Wales Government Community Partnership Grant.
The work at the airport also includes a new entry way, new runway lighting, connection of potable water and increased parking facilities.
Parkes Shire Councillor and Chair of the Airport Committee Alan Ward said the upgrades to the new terminal are a win for the Parkes Shire.
“It's an exciting time in Parkes' history; this upgrade provides our region with a significant regional infrastructure asset,” he said.
“Thank you to our Federal and State Governments for their significant contributions.
“I would also like to acknowledge community members and travellers for their patience throughout the upgrade.
“I think we can all agree the Robert Wilson Terminal has certainly been worth the wait.”
Cr Ward said passenger demand for services from Parkes Airport had grown from 8,000 passengers a year to over 30,000 passengers in a 10 year period.
“With a strong focus on continued economic development and investment this upgrade and new terminal places Parkes in a positive position to capitalise on future opportunities and growth,” he added.
The official opening of the airport project and dedication to Robert Wilson OAM will commence at 8.30am this Thursday.
