Rowan Ramsey (Grey, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I too echo those comments. On a brighter note, last Friday I was given the opportunity, along with Mayor Clare McLaughlin, to open the new Whyalla airport terminal, a $12 million expansion or upgrade of the existing facilities. It came about as a result of the mandatory implementation of passenger screening at Whyalla airport. It was something that I was quite concerned about when we first announced it as a government and the implications of it on an airport like Whyalla with its throughput.

I was very pleased to work with them to secure $4.3 million from the Regional Airport Security Screening Fund for the installation of the scanners, and the expansion and changes to the terminal, and also another $2.45 million from the Regional Airports Program for runway extensions and tarmac upgrades. So it was quite a significant contribution to the City of Whyalla.

I'd like to congratulate the council on actually taking the initiative on what is an impediment, if you like, of taking that money and using it as leverage to bring about this wonderful new airport gateway to Whyalla. When you come in or out, you'll be able to get yourself a decent cup of coffee, relax in beautiful surroundings and enjoy some of the local artwork. It's a great gateway to Whyalla and the Eyre Peninsula generally. I congratulate them all.