Warrnambool City Council is seeking community feedback to inform a regional airport strategy.
Council is developing a strategy that will include an investigation into the demand for air passenger services within the South West.
Warrnambool Mayor Cr Ben Blain said Council was particularly interested to see whether the community felt an air passenger service might be a viable proposition that would receive regular patronage.
“We know that in past years operating an air passenger service linking the South West to Melbourne has been challenging,” Cr Blain said.
“But it’s worth revisiting and looking at a whole-of-region perspective on air travel.
“Our airports already provide a vital role accommodating emergency services including Air Ambulance Victoria and firefighting aircraft.
“So we’re looking at whether we can add further value with commuter and/or tourism air services.
“Has regional travel in the South West become a more attractive proposition in recent years? Could it be a way to draw more medical specialists to the South West? Could we link more effectively with international arrivals to encourage visitors to start their Great Ocean Road adventure from Warrnambool?
“The South West has public airports at Warrnambool, Portland and Hamilton. The strategy will look at how we can make the most of these facilities.
“We encourage people to have a say, go to www.yoursaywarrnambool.com.au
“There’s an easy questionnaire to answer that will take just a couple of minutes to complete.”