Official Opening of the New Charleville Airport Terminal

Thank you, Mr Cook, for your kind introduction. Mayor Liston, other Council representatives, members of the Charleville community and beyond! 

I at once acknowledge the Bidjarra people and their Elders, past and present, and extend respectful greetings.

Kaye and I are truly delighted to be back in Charleville.

We were last here in October 2014 to officially open the new Royal Flying Doctor Hangar and Visitor’s Centre. That was a wonderfully uplifting event, memorable to us for the genuine warmth of the welcome we received, and the buoyant community spirit, despite prolonged drought.

Last week’s east coast events notwithstanding, since our last visit here, an area about twice the size of Tasmania has been added to Queensland’s drought declaration.

Today’s opening of the new Airport Terminal is therefore a timely reminder of just how critical quality infrastructure is to the wellbeing of our regions.

This expansion acknowledges the significant role the Airport plays in facilitating investment, driving tourism, and building a stronger economy and community – and as a base for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

The new Terminal also honours the important role that Charleville played as an Air Force base during the Second World War, and the town’s place in the aviation history of our nation.

But more than anything, the expansion of the Charleville Airport is a sign of real progress, a vote of confidence, for this community. 

I heartily congratulate Murweh Shire Council – under consecutive Mayors – on its initiative in bringing this project to fruition.

I acknowledge the Council’s own not-insignificant contribution, which together with Queensland Government funds, has ensured that the airport can serve the current and future needs of Charleville, and indeed this entire region.

The new Terminal really is a remarkable facility, of which the entire community can be proud, especially as it showcases, in part, the depth of talent and skill of many local tradespeople – and I acknowledge those here today.

Ladies and gentlemen, I once again express Kaye’s and my delight in returning to your vibrant community.

On that uplifting note, it gives me now great pleasure to unveil this commemorative plaque, thereby declaring officially open the new Charleville Airport Terminal.