Cohuna Aerodrome changes proposed

Published on 22 June 2020

Gannawarra Shire Council is considering a recommendation at the June Ordinary Council Meeting to surrender the Cohuna Aerodrome Licence back to the facility’s landowner, Coliban Water.

The Cohuna Aerodrome is classified by the Civil Aviation and Safety Authority as an Aeroplane Landing Area, with Council holding a licence for the site with Coliban Water.

As a current licensee, Council assumes liability for the financial and accounting arrangements. This includes maintenance costs and the depreciation of facilities on the land. In 2018/2019, these costs were $37,105. However due to mandatory accounting requirements, this amount would increase dramatically if significant works were to occur at the site and it would become an increased financial burden on Gannawarra ratepayers.

The proposal to surrender the licence does not jeopardise the Cohuna Aviation Club’s proposal to expand its facilities as supported by the Federal Government’s Regional Aviation Fund. By Council removing itself as the Aerodrome Operator, the club will be able to continue working with the Federal Government on this proposal without any negative financial depreciation impacts on the Gannawarra community. If the recommendation to surrender the licence is approved, this does not mean the aerodrome will close, and there is absolutely no plan or intention for this to occur.

As the facility is an uncertified or unregistered aerodrome, it can continue to operate as usual under a community model. Once a new Aerodrome Operator has been established there will be no impact on the operations of Ambulance Victoria’s services. Fixed wing aircraft will only need to confirm via a phone call with the Aerodrome Operator to determine whether the aerodrome is safe to land at; noting such calls are always made with sufficient lead time before any proposed landing.

Council surrendering the Cohuna Airfield Licence to Coliban Water would open up the opportunity for the Cohuna Aviation Club or similar associated community group to assume the role of Aerodrome Operator and take over operation and maintenance activities at the Cohuna Aeroplane Landing Area and pursue upgrade and development plans without hindrance.