Eurobodalla Shire Council has put forward a plan to expand Moruya Airport. Photo: Kim Treasure.
A major planning document for a South Coast airport has put forward nearly $36 million worth of upgrades.
Eurobodalla Shire Council (ESC) has released a new draft master plan for Moruya Airport, prepared by To70 Aviation (Australia) Pty Ltd, for public comment.
It follows the release of the previous master plan for the airport a decade ago.
The latest draft plan proposes an expansion of airport facilities, such as development lots for aviation support businesses, commercial subdivisions and increased aircraft parking.
“There is also provision for further expansion of the future terminal building to the south allowing for expansion, passenger screening and additional retail, car parking and support buildings,” the document states.
A concept design for the future terminal was developed in late 2023 by STEA Astute Architecture following collaborative workshops with airport users and other stakeholders.
An ESC spokesperson told Region that while there currently wasn’t enough demand for a new terminal, this served as early planning.
“The master plan more broadly is a long-term document and sets out the need for various proposals over time, as and when they are needed.”
Existing facilities include a terminal, taxiways, a skydiving landing area and hangar space.
If a new terminal is added to Moruya Airport, the existing one could be transformed into a base for emergency services.
Meanwhile, the eastern parking area could be used as visitor parking and for freight and air ambulance transfers.
“The building has potential to be a multi-function facility with access to the aprons and carparks. … There is already an established water store and a command hut near this location,” the document states.
“Possible expansion may include a toilet hut, mains power, gravel taxiway and possible use of the terminal when no longer needed [for regular transport].”
Rex’s regional routes have continued despite the airline going into administration in July 2024. Photo: Rex.
The airport is only serviced by Rex, which was recently bought by American company Air T.
Although the airline went into administration last year, its core regional routes have continued to operate.
The council spokesperson told Region talks about potential impacts of the sale on Eurobodalla Shire were ongoing.
“It’s too soon to say, but the continuance of services from Rex is crucial to both the local community and the airport.
“We look forward to discussing this with the new owners and have raised the importance of the service with the Australian Government a number of times.”
Further business and private interest could also be drawn through an expansion north (towards George Bass Drive), where smaller hangars could be created.
“[These could be used by] private business and recreational pilots and would support the development of the hangar-home concept of an airpark/tourist getaway.”
According to the draft master plan, the proposals come with an indicative total cost of $35.9 million.
It’s also not the only regional airport planning for long-term use.
In the Bega Valley Shire, councillors recently decided to offer up to 20-year leases and build new amenities at Merimbula Airport, while a $5 million grant for a runway extension was awarded earlier this year.
Eurobodalla’s draft master plan is expected to come before councillors in early 2026.
People can have their say on the Moruya Airport Master Plan 2024 until 1 pm on 28 November. Further information is available on the council’s website.
