New Port Macquarie airport access road ‘a vital link’ during disasters

A NEW access road to Port Macquarie Airport will help keep essential air services accessible and reduce reliance on the existing flood-prone access road.

The project will deliver an 800-metre sealed road connecting Boundary Street and The Binnacle, with drainage, fencing, lockable gates and road safety signage for use when the existing route is inaccessible.

The two-year project will help maintain medical flights, emergency operations and essential deliveries and support the planned NSW Air Ambulance base.

The Australian Government and Port Macquarie-Hastings Council will each contribute $1.185m to the project, bringing the total investment to $2.37 million.

The government funding is part of Round 4 of its flagship $1 billion Disaster Ready Fund.

The Australian Government established the Disaster Ready Fund to reduce risk and build resilience in communities across Australia.

“The Disaster Ready Fund is about getting ahead of disasters by investing in mitigation and resilience now, so communities are better protected into the future,” said Kristy McBain, Federal Minister for Emergency Management.

“This access road will be vital, ensuring Port Macquarie remains connected via air travel in the event of flooding.

“It will also ensure continued access for emergency services, which is paramount during a natural disaster.”

Ms McBain visited Port Macquarie during the floods last year to see first-hand the role the airport plays in times of flooding.

Port Macquarie Hastings Mayor Adam Roberts said the new road would allow critical emergency services, medical flights and essential operations to continue ‘when our community needs them most’.

“We look forward to continuing to work with the Australian Government and Minister McBain on other key infrastructure projects for the benefit of our broader region,” Mayor Roberts said.