¶ COLLIE Shire officers recently met with representatives from a Perth-based flight training company as the shire pushes forward with its proposed airstrip development.
Shire chief executive officer Phil Anastasakis told the Bulletin airstrip growth and development opportunities remain “a focus” for the shire following last year’s adoption of a masterplan for the site.
Mr Anastasakis said the company is exploring the possibility of expanding its operations to Collie.
“Collie presents an excellent opportunity to provide flight training in a location that combines ideal flying conditions with the potential to support local economic and community growth,” he said.
“The shire will continue to actively work with the training company to explore the opportunity and feasibility of the proposal.”
The masterplan details how development could be carried out across three broad stages.
Initial efforts would focus on the existing site, from which a significant expansion could follow, including aerodrome certification and implementation of instrument flight procedures, enabling a variety of commercial uses.
Beyond the next decade, development could encompass an expanded hangar and commercial precincts.
Mr Anastasakis said the masterplan will facilitate “progressive development” of the airstrip, paving the way for the “introduction of commercial and increased recreational aviation activity in future years”.
“Collie airfield provides the opportunity for Perth-based students to travel and train regionally, with lower costs, fewer delays and less congestion, making it an attractive alternative to other locations such as Jandakot Airport,” he said.
“Opportunities range from student aviation education, through to trial flights to the public, which have the potential to introduce more people to aviation and boost local tourism by attracting visitors to the region.”