THE $4.2m Mount Gambier Regional Airport terminal construction works are set to take off next month, which will usher in a new chapter for the aviation gateway.
Specialist construction company Kennett Pty Ltd – located in Mount Gambier and Adelaide – has been awarded the tender by Grant District Council to build the terminal.
The project is part of a $9.2m sweeping development of the commercial airfield, which includes runway, apron and lighting works.
More than 70 people – directly and indirectly – are expected to be employed during the terminal’s construction works, which are earmarked to be completed in December 2020.
It is estimated the redeveloped airport will underpin nearly 140 jobs when completed.
Kennett project manager Carlin McNeil said the company was thrilled to be awarded the contract for this landmark project.
“The airport terminal is a fantastic design and is the gateway of Mount Gambier,” Mr McNeil told The Border Watch yesterday.
He said the project was timely given the company was currently building the ALDI warehouse, which meant local contractors and employees could transfer across to the airport works when that project was completed.
“We are currently on track with the ALDI building,” Mr McNeil said.
He revealed the company had experience constructing buildings “in and around airports” and had an existing relationship with the terminal’s design team Ashley Halliday Architects.
Mr McNeil said the majority of contractors used for the build would be sourced from the region with only specialised trades being brought in when necessary.
In particular, he said he was impressed Mount Gambier’s natural attributes were “at the heart” of the terminal’s design.
Using a local colour palette as inspiration, the design proposes a large circular skylight to provide natural light and simulate the sinkholes found in the region.
Council acting chief executive officer Jane Fetherstonhaugh said the airport was a “once in a generational project”, essential to the region’s future economic and social development.
“Growth and investment is critical for the Limestone Coast,” Ms Fetherstonhaugh said.
“The existing airport has operational limitations due to runway, apron size and strength. Building a new terminal will optimise travellers’ connection and experience with the Limestone Coast.”
Council aims to create a “unique, intimate and memorable experience” that makes people want to visit, re-visit and engage with the region’s diverse environment, culture and commerce.
Mount Gambier Regional Airport Strategy Committee presiding member David Herbert also welcomed the development.
“I wish to congratulate all council staff and elected members involved with getting this project funded and off the ground,” Mr Herbert said.
“The airport upgrade will benefit people in the Mount Gambier area as well as the broader region.”
According to council, Kennett was identified as the preferred contractor through council’s “rigorous” procurement evaluation process.
Factors assessed include quotes and pricing, regional economic benefits and the ability to form a strong working relationship between Ashley Halliday Architects, council and the team from Kennett.
“Through their tender submission, Kennett clearly demonstrated a clear understanding of the aspirational design and importance of the terminal build for the region and council congratulates them on the successful outcome,” Ms Fetherstonhaugh said.
Cr Shirley Little – who is a member of the Mount Gambier Regional Airport Strategy Committee – said the new terminal would be welcomed by passengers.
“Coming out to the airport to meet with Carlin you can see how large the floor area of the terminal will be and what an improvement this will make for passengers and airport businesses, Cr Little said.
“Council is very pleased with all contractors selected for this project and the working relationships formed between all parties.”
Kennett’s industry participation plan demonstrated to council that a partnership with Kennett will deliver “broader economic benefits” for the region.
“The use of regional labour and support services, sourcing of local goods and the use of regional based subcontractors, machinery and materials will provide economic input and employment for local businesses,” according to council.
