Four Cape York communities will receive much-needed safety upgrades after the federal government announced $175,500 in funding for four airstrips across the region.
Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said the funding would deliver upgrade works at the Laura, Lakeland, Pascoe Rive Station and Cooktown airstrips.
He said the upgrades will be funded under Round 6 of the Australian Government’s Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program.
“Upgrades like this will ensure residents living in Cape York communities can remain well-connected, overcoming the effects of the tyranny of distance,” Mr Entsch said.
“These upgrades ensure continued access to essential, potentially lifesaving health care, as well as fresh food, mail services and access to employment and education opportunities.
“Being connected to regional centres is vital for every remote community and I am pleased these communities will receive the airstrip work they need.
“This is about listening, acting and delivering for Cape York communities.”
Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the federal government was delivering better access and safety upgrades for remote community airstrips thanks to its 2018 Budget commitment of $28 million to extend the program over four years.
“I am looking forward to working with these remote communities to ensure we deliver the essential airstrip works they need,” he said.
