Council to assist with smooth transition of Cohuna Airfield licence

Published on 08 July 2020

Gannawarra Shire Council will assist with the smooth transition of the Cohuna Airfield licence to a new aerodrome operator.

Following recent discussions between Council and the Cohuna Aerodrome landowner, Coliban Water, Council has written to Coliban Water confirming the airfield licence will cease at close of business on 11 September 2020.

“Council Executive staff liaised with Coliban Water corporate property and asset staff several weeks before the Council resolved to surrender the Cohuna Airfield licence at its 24 June Council Meeting,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.

“Whilst Coliban Water would have preferred a timeframe beyond September, Council believes the timeframe is reasonable and mitigates the Cohuna community having a prolonged period of uncertainty.”

This transition period will coincide with Coliban Water undertaking an Expression of Interest process to determine the airfield’s successful licensee.

“This Expression of Interest process provides the appropriate mechanism for any interested parties to submit their interest for consideration, with the decision of awarding a new licence subject to assessment by Coliban Water,” Mr O’Reilly said.

“Although the Expression of Interest process will be undertaken and managed by Coliban Water, Council is happy to assist any interested parties who may need assistance in facilitating their submission.

“Council would also consider providing any reasonable support to a new community licensee to undertake training and/or assist with any incidental costs to coordinate a smooth transition.”

Council will continue to communicate with all interested stakeholders during this transition period and provide regular updates.