Bendigo Airport last night won the Small Regional Airport of the Year at the Australian Airports Association annual industry awards.
The award recognised the airport's rapid transformation to support commercial flights by Qantas which started operating in March this year.
The terminal building was originally constructed in the 1970s and for it to support commercial flights, it had to quickly be expanded and improved.
Following the announcement from Qantas in late 2018, design and construction works commenced immediately and delivered:
- A 76-space sealed car park
- Building extension
- Communication connections
- Baggage collection area
- Café facilities
- Bathroom upgrade
- New carpet
- Terminal seating
- Vegetation clearing
In addition to the construction work, the Bendigo Airport needed to go from a registered aerodrome to a certified aerodrome, which required additional administrative work.
Business Services Manager Benjamin Devanny said the physical transformation of the terminal was completed by 46 local companies within four months.
"The contractors worked together to provide a great outcome for the community and develop a building that is comfortable, accessible and fit-for-purpose, within tight timeframes," Mr Devanny said.
"We're very proud to be recognised for our work to prepare our airport to support a commercial flight service.
"We are keen to continue this good work and redevelop the terminal building and precinct further, though this is subject to federal and state funding."
The City of Greater Bendigo will apply for funding for the terminal and precinct upgrade from the Building Better Regions Fund, which is now open
