Balonne Shire Council is calling on all levels of government to ensure the ongoing servicing of essential regional routes to the Shire following the news that Rex Airlines has entered voluntary administration.
As a Council, we stand ready to work with all levels of government to ensure our regional
airline service remains, said Balonne Shire Mayor, Samantha O’Toole.
“This development poses significant challenges for our community, impacting connectivity,
local businesses and residents who rely on this essential service for tourism, commerce and
family connections,” she said.
The Mayor said Rex Airlines had provided a vital link for the Shire, providing crucial connectivity for residents and businesses.
“The news of their voluntary administration is a significant blow to our community”, said
Mayor O’Toole.
“We understand the uncertainty and inconvenience this situation brings to our residents and businesses, but we are heartened by the interim commitment to continue our regional routes in the short term and urge residents to continue supporting them.
“Council is actively engaging with state and federal governments to find a viable long-term solution that will maintain air services to the Balonne region.
“Our priority is to ensure the Balonne Shire remains accessible and that the impact on our community is minimised.
“As a Council, we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available and as efforts to secure long-term alternative air services progress.”
The Western Queensland Alliance of Councils has echoed the Balonne Shire Council’s calls for government assistance.
“We are alarmed at the current situation and what this could mean for the vital service Rex flights provide for our remote and rural areas,” the Alliance said in a statement.
“Rex services 20 communities in 19 of our member local government areas, connecting our communities and services to major centres.
“Communities and business across our region are rightly concerned about the current situation and the potential, far-reaching impacts.
“These flights are fundamental to residents in our part of the world, and we need these services to be maintained.”
