Cohuna Aerodrome talks off to a flying start

Published on 14 July 2020

Community groups and individuals interested in undertaking the Expression of Interest process seeking to become the Cohuna Airfield Licence operator are encouraged to sign up for a two-day course funded by Gannawarra Shire Council.

Council has advised the Cohuna Airfield’s landowner, Coliban Water that the licence for the land will cease at the close of business on Friday, 11 September 2020 and Council are committed to assisting with the smooth transition of the Cohuna Airfield licence to a new aerodrome operator.

“Council is working proactively with Coliban Water and finalising all information they need, which is a relatively simple and straight forward process given this is an operational matter,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Tom O’Reilly said.

“In the meantime, Council has arranged for Airports Plus to run a two-day course in August for any community groups and individuals interested in undertaking airfield management training.

“Up to four representatives from interested community groups and organisations are eligible to take part, with Council able to arrange for further sessions if there is demand.”

With the Civil Aviation and Safety Authority classifying the Cohuna Airfield as an unregistered/unlicensed strip, management of the facility involves a weekly one-hour inspection to check lights on-site are operational and to remove any debris that may be on the strip.

“The main role of the Cohuna Airfield Operator is to be a 24/7 point of contact for Ambulance Victoria and Victoria Police in the instance aircraft from either organisation need to land at the facility,” Mr O’Reilly said.

“Ambulance Victoria has stated publicly in the Riv Herald on 13 July that the temporary closure of the aerodrome, as determined by Coliban Water to ensure its Expression of Interest process can proceed, will have no impact on Ambulance Victoria’s ability to deliver emergency care to residents.

“The airfield licensee will also not be responsible for the maintenance of other facilities on-site, as these buildings are privately owned. The aerodrome also does not have refuelling facilities on-site.”

One of the groups that has expressed interest in acquiring the Cohuna Airfield licence is the Cohuna Model Flying Club, whose headquarters is located on the Chuggs Road facility.

Formed in 1981, the club regularly hosts Victorian Miniature Pylon Racing Association events and is scheduled to host the Australian Miniature Pylon Racing Association Championships on the aerodrome site in October 2020.

“During the past 39 years we have put extensive effort in maintaining our section of the aerodrome. These works have included tending to the runway and our headquarters,” Cohuna Model Flying Club president, Lyn Clifford said.

“We see the Cohuna Aerodrome as a valuable asset to the district, and started the process seeking to obtain the Cohuna Airfield licence in the days following Council’s June meeting.

“We have undertaken this process to ensure the Cohuna Aerodrome remains open in the instance that another community group or organisation does not seek to obtain the Cohuna Airfield licence.”

Other community groups and organisations interested in undertaking the Expression of Interest process are encouraged to contact Council, which can assist any interested parties who may need assistance in facilitating their submission to Coliban Water.

“Council would also consider providing any reasonable support to a new community licensee through initiatives such as our Community Grants Program,” Mr O’Reilly said.

“The successful applicant would also be eligible for other grants from the Federal Government to support maintenance efforts and infrastructure upgrades.”

Community groups and individuals interested in completing the two-day training course can phone Council on (03) 5450 9333.