As everyone knows one of the Chamber’s highest priorities is to see an international gateway opened up via Coffs Harbour Airport for our regional exporters so we are incredibly delighted to hear the announcement by John Barilaro, and the NSW Government.

Deputy Premier said “International Freight Airports in Regional NSW would not only improve connectivity and get produce to market faster, they would expand customer bases and increase profit and viability for our hard working farmers”.

We say “here here” to that and clearly the most practical and “shovel ready” site for that to occur on the Mid North Coast is Coffs Harbour with the rail link, exisiting facilities, proximity to major exporters, movement towards private management arrangements, and the Enterprise Park. With the collaboration and vision of Coffs Harbour City Council, NSW Government, and whoever the newly elected Member for Cowper is, it can become a reality very quickly.

The feasibility study has started, with stakeholder engagement underway – http://www.nsw.gov.au/airfreight

For media comment contact Chamber President Martin Wells 0418 611 790