Airport opening flags growing Orange economy

The official opening of the Orange Regional Airport has been welcomed as a sign of a growing regional economy.

The $21 million expansion of the Orange Airport means the region is prepared for next mining boom, according to Cadia Valley Operations General Manager Tony McPaul.

The expanded runway means large jets with full loads, commonly used by the mining industry, can now take off from the Spring Hill site.

At the (17 June) official opening of the expansion, Mr McPaul said the project, which was paid for by all three levels of government and Newcrest Mining, would benefit the community for years to come.

“Orange City Council, I give them credit for always having the vision and the foresight to think well into the future,” Tony McPaul said.

About five years ago CVO was flying people in and out of Western Australia using F-100 aeroplanes but because of the length of runway, the planes could not take off with a full load of passengers.

He said the plane could only manage 70 of the 100 people possible so the company approached the council to extend the runway.

“I remember speaking to the guys at Orange City Council and … they said let’s do it,” Mr McPaul said.

The official opening acknowledged the wider project including lengthening the runway by 438 metres, expanded taxiways, new access roads, new runway lighting and the new terminal.

Deputy Mayor of Orange Cr Chris Gryllis said the project’s longer runway, upgraded taxiways and a larger aircraft parking area increase the efficiency of larger aircraft using the airport.

“In the last couple of weeks a Boeing 717 has flown into Orange for the first time carrying mining industry workers,” Cr Chris Gryllis said.

“The new longer runway mean a plane like this can now take off with a full load of fuel and make the flight to the Northern Territory without a stop.”

“Infrastructure like this, links us with Australia’s mining industry, as well as delivering benefits for tourists and residents alike.”

The Australian Government contributed $4.9 million, the NSW Government contributed $1.3 million, Newcrest Mining contributed $3 million and Orange City Council contributed $11.87 million to the project.

OPEN: Former Member for Orange Andrew Gee, Cadia Valley Operations General Manager Tony McPaul and Orange Deputy Mayor Chris Gryllis cut the ribbon at the official opening of the Orange Regional Airport.