Burketown Airport has officially reopened following the completion of a $24.4 million upgrade to address significant damage caused during the 2022-23 disaster season.
The works, which were funded by the Federal Government, Queensland Government and Burke Shire council, were delivered by the Council in partnership with Durack Civil and Northlane Consulting Engineers to restore a critical transport link for the remote Gulf community.
Burke Shire is regularly impacted by monsoonal flooding. With all roads in and out of Burketown cut off for months at a time during the wet season, an operational airfield is essential to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the community.
Central to the reconstruction project was an upgraded airstrip designed to increase access and reliability in all conditions.
New runway pavement includes triple blend stabilisation using lime, cement and fly ash, and the runway has been raised 400mm, placing it above both the 2023 flood level and the site’s historical maximum flood level.
Upgrades to airfield lighting, drainage and service roads have also been completed.
Burke Shire Council Mayor Ernie Camp said it was fantastic to see the important piece of infrastructure upgraded, raised, and back in action.
“Our airport provides vital access for the community, our emergency and medical services like the RFDS, regular public transport, and supply and industry, particularly during the wet season when roads in the region are cut,” Mayor Camp said.
“A more resilient airport brings peace of mind and gives us greater confidence in the face of severe weather, and I thank the Australian and Queensland Governments for their ongoing support of the Gulf.”
Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) and Savannah Aviation charter began using sections of the new runway in September, with Rex Airlines set to commence commercial flights at the airport from Monday 16 November.
Durack Civil Director, James Durack said rebuilding a runway in one of Australia’s most remote and challenging environments takes an enormous amount of planning, innovation and commitment from everyone involved.
“We’re incredibly proud of our team and our partnership with Burke Shire Council. To deliver something that will serve this community for generations, and stand up better to future floods, is something pretty special,” Mr Durack said.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain said reopening Burketown Airport was a significant milestone for this remote community and another important step in its long-term recovery from the devastating summer of 2022 and 2023.
“Resilient airports are crucial for places like Burke Shire, and the upgrades delivered here will make a significant positive impact for many years to come,” Minister McBain said.
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery, Ann Leahy said improving the flood immunity of Burketown Airport is more than simply repairing flood damage, it’s about ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the community and region.
“This project highlights the transformative impact that Betterment resilience investment has, particularly in regional and remote areas, and the long-term value in not just building back but building back better,” Minister Leahy said.
“Every Queenslander, no matter where they live, can have confidence that our government is working hard to strengthen their community’s recovery after disaster strikes.”
