Construction of a new world-class Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) aviation training facility in Bundaberg is on track, with the development more than half complete.
The new facility is located next to the existing RFDS Bundaberg Base and will house the only Beechcraft King Air Pro Line Fusion Full-Flight Simulator (FFS) in Australia.
Once built and operational, RFDS pilots from across Queensland will spend at least two weeks at the training facility each year, while non-RFDS pilots will also be able to use the simulator for their endorsements or recurrent training on King Air B350/360 aircraft.
The $25.3 million facility is jointly funded with $14.9 million from the Australian Government and $3 million from QCoal Foundation, while the land the facility is being built on has been donated by Bundaberg Regional Council.
RFDS is financing the remainder of the project through fundraising.
RFDS (Queensland Section) General Manager Aviation, Peter Elliott said construction of the new building was continuing, with completion on track for the end of 2023.
“We’ve had a busy, but successful last few months which included our Flight Standards Pilot David Falk travelling to the United States to put the new simulator through its paces,” Mr Elliott said.
“David reported back that it ticked all the required boxes for this stage of the build and we’re now preparing to ship it to Australia within the next couple of months.
“Within RFDS Queensland, we have about 60 pilots who will be commencing their training through this training centre.
“Simulation training is exceptionally important in the aviation environment and it allows for safer training and better outcomes for that training.
“It is a CASA requirement to utilise simulators for your type of aircraft if they’re in the country where you’re operating,” he said.
The facility is being constructed by Bundaberg company, Murchie Constructions.
Murchie Construction Project Manager, Joel Brimelow said the team was proud to be involved with the build.
“In any one day it can be from 10 to 30 different trades and all our trade base is locally sourced which we pride ourselves on, keeping things local in the community,” Mr Brimelow said.
“The facility includes the main simulator hall, workshop areas, training rooms, offices, staff rooms, amenities and a front reception.”
Managing Director, Andrew Murchie said the team had been working tirelessly to create a high standard construction that will deliver on the vision for a world-class, technological advanced building.
“We know the positive economic impact a facility like this can have on the Bundaberg region and as a local, family-owned business, we’re committed to ensuring we do our bit to support the RFDS,” he said.
