Brewarrina Shire Council Secures Almost $1.4 Million in Boost for Local Infrastructure

Brewarrina Shire Council is celebrating a significant achievement, having recently secured nearly $1.4 million in funding through two successful grant programs. These investments will deliver critical upgrades to local infrastructure and enhanced training for Council staff, benefitting residents across the region.

Thanks to more than $1.2 million from the Federal Government’s Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program, both the Brewarrina and Goodooga aerodromes will undergo major upgrades. Works at Brewarrina Aerodrome will include the renewal and resealing of the taxiway and apron, while Goodooga Aerodrome will see its runway, taxiway and apron resealed.

Both sites will also benefit from new line-marking, replacement of Pilot Activated Lighting and the installation of LED illuminated wind direction indicators.

Brewarrina Shire Council General Manager, David Kirby, said he was thrilled by the announcement of the funding wins, which will support important community improvements.

“These upgrades are a significant win not just for Council but for the entire region,” Mr Kirby said.

“Improved aerodrome facilities will enhance safety, reliability and efficiency of air services in our region. For remote towns like ours, reliable air transport is essential for emergency medical evacuations, freight deliveries and supporting local businesses.

“The improved facilities may also attract additional air traffic, boost tourism and create new opportunities for economic growth, resulting in more local jobs and better services. While the upgraded lighting and modern indicators will enable safe operations in all weather conditions and at night, strengthening regional connectivity.”

In addition to the aerodrome funding, Brewarrina Shire Council has also secured $150,000 from the NSW Minister for Water, Rose Jackson’s Advanced Operational Support program.

This funding will provide specialist training for drinking water treatment operators, enhancing their expertise in supply management principles and strengthening community assurance in the provision of safe drinking water.

“The dedicated funding for water treatment operator training means our team will be better equipped to manage and maintain the quality of our local water supply. With improved skills and knowledge, operators can respond more effectively to challenges, implement best practices and ensure compliance with regulatory standards,” Mr Kirby said.

“For residents, this means greater confidence in the safety and reliability of our drinking water. For Council, it’s an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to public health and wellbeing.

“These two investments not only address immediate infrastructure and training needs but also lay the groundwork for a more resilient and thriving Brewarrina Shire well into the future.

“I’m proud of our team for securing the funding and thank both the State and Federal governments for recognising the need for these important improvements and the positive impact they will have for years to come,” concluded Mr Kirby.