TRC endorses ongoing business operation, expansion at Toowoomba City Aerodrome

Toowoomba Regional Council today (Tuesday, April 15, 2025) endorsed a recommendation to implement operational improvements at the Toowoomba City Aerodrome, subject to Budget allocations, which are designed to enhance current and new business opportunities at the facility.

Toowoomba Region Mayor Cr Geoff McDonald said Council has considered, and will implement, recommendations from the AEC report (Review of Aerodrome Activities and Sites, March 2025).

“Council is progressing some of the AEC recommendations already, including the reformation of the Toowoomba Region Aerodrome Advisory Committee, whose new community members were endorsed by Council today,” Mayor McDonald said.

“This committee represents the interests of aircraft operators and aerodrome businesses to Council and the broader community and offers a vital link for improving communication to aerodrome operators, as recommended in the AEC report.

“Additionally, Council has supplied draft leases to existing tenants who require renewal.

“Council appreciates that finalising new, long-term lease arrangements will provide greater confidence for existing lessees to consider their future operations, while paving the way for prospective new ventures.

“The Toowoomba City Aerodrome is an important facility for recreational aviation operators and commercial operations based at the site, in addition to servicing and supporting many complementary business and community service activities that contribute greatly to employment and our regional economy.

“In recognition of the Toowoomba City Aerodrome’s standing as a vital business centre, Council is progressing tenders for three new commercial sites at the facility.

“Apart from introducing the AEC report’s recommendations, Council will start reporting of the Toowoomba City Aerodrome as an internal business unit of Council from July 2025, which will allow Council the opportunity to review all expenditure. Council will review the operational model in three years.

“In line with the three-year review, Council will not charge outgoings to lessees up to, and including, June 30, 2028.

“These measures are recommended for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the current operations and offering improved transparency around the operations and future development of the aerodrome.

“Monthly reporting will offer a clear view of the Toowoomba City Aerodrome’s income and expenditure, which will be separate from financial figures for the Millmerran and Pittsworth aerodromes and the Crows Nest helipad.

“Other measures, such as reviewing the 2018 Master Plan and other operational initiatives, will require investments in operational and future capital budgets (requiring consideration against Council’s 10-year capital works program) to finalise.

“We can proceed with implementing recommendations to make the operations at the aerodrome more efficient and effective for Council and business operators, while ensuring the best return for ratepayers.

“Council acknowledges that our processes and communication with operators at the Toowoomba City Aerodrome can be improved.

“I am positive that the AEC report’s recommendations give everyone a clear understanding of how various elements will proceed and be achieved.

“These moves again demonstrate Councillors’ willingness for Council to do things differently for better outcomes during this term.”