SUMMER 2020 / 21

Good-bye^ 2020

Seems like yesterday that the P.M. delivered his memorable 22 March 2020 address, announcing restrictions that closed public venues, cafes and restaurants and advised against non-essential travel. Globally, the aviation industry spiralled into freefall; grounded at best, insolvent at worst, with our own Airport terminal forced to close on 16 April without any RPT flights. On 15 May, Qantas resumed a twice-weekly service to , via Coffs Harbour, and we have been steadily improving since. We are grateful to see signs of life returning to the Airport and now offer 23 Image: COVID-19 emptied the Airport car park in 2020 services per week to Sydney, , Canberra and , catering for over 1000 passengers a week. We are particularly pleased to welcome back our business partners and their staff and are thinking of those yet to return. It has been a tough year, yet despite all the challenges the year has delivered some great news. Aircraft operators would be delighted to know that the Airport received $3.5 million to support the development of a Stage 1 Code A parallel taxiway (see the article below on the Parallel Taxiway for further information). The Airport was also awarded $140,000 to improve our energy efficiency and install rooftop solar panels on the terminal in 2021 under the State Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Grant. For service to medicine and aviation, Dr David Cooke was awarded a Medal of the Order of (OAM) in this year's Queen's Birthday honours list. Congratulations David on this award and recognition.

In July 2020, the Airport In this issue… Terminal Building Upgrade Project was - Fly Neighbourly Agreement pg 3 awarded winner of - Parallel Taxiway Project pg 4 Image: Dr David Cooke the Asset Management and - Security Screening Changes pg 5 Infrastructure Initiatives Award for projects over $1.5 million, at the - Port Macquarie Helicopters pg 6 2020 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards. The Awards celebrate outstanding achievement and promote innovation and - Aerodrome Works Explained pg 7 continuous improvement within NSW local government. The awards attracted a high calibre of submissions from across the State, and it is a - Skydive Port Macquarie pg 9 fantastic achievement for the Terminal project to be formally - New Artwork pg10 recognised.

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In August 2020, the planning proposal establishing the Airport’s 23.75Ha Business and Technology Precinct, environmental protections areas and special purpose (Airport) lands, received approval under the NSW State Government’s Planning System Acceleration Program. The approval is a significant step forward for the Airport Business and Technology Precinct project, which is strategically important for the region to attract future, large- scale employment opportunities to the region. Planning also continues on the upgrade of Boundary Street, with detailed design underway. The design will include four lanes, cycleway and footpath and bus bay and further detail is expected to be available to the public in 2021. Please note that the construction phase of the project is yet to be funded.

Image: Overview of the Boundary Street upgrade area. We have also been able to welcome Fly Pelican to Port Macquarie, operating the first-ever, direct service to Canberra. The service has been hugely successful in its first month, operating at 85% loads with strong community interest and support. Fly Pelican has committed to the service until the end of February 2021 at this stage, and is considering expanding into other routes out of Port Macquarie in the near future. It has also been great to see the Aus Flight Handling crew back on deck; their commitment to service is evident, providing one staff member for every two passengers on the maiden voyage! Eastern Air Services also continue their expansion, successfully obtaining an Air Operators Certificate to operate RPT services in 2020 and commencing their Lord Howe service out of Newcastle. Congratulations to EAS.

Finally, we were all saddened to hear of the passing of Nico Brink this month in a tragic helicopter accident near Goulburn. His infectious enthusiasm and friendliness will be missed. We are thinking of his dearest friends and family at this time. A sincere thank you to all Airport operators for their patience and perseverance in 2020. Merry Christmas and best wishes for a healthy and prosperous New Year in 2021.

Peter Allen, Airport Business Manager ([email protected])

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Fly Neighbourly Agreement

Aircraft movements at Port Macquarie Airport increased from around 30,000 movement in 2010 to almost 60,000 movements in 2019, primarily due to growth in pilot training. Within the industry, we are well aware of the benefits of this training in developing future pilots, creating jobs and other economic benefits. The resulting aircraft noise however, has led to an increased number of complaints received by Council regarding aircraft noise over residential areas. In mid-2020, Council examined the impact of pilot training and aircraft noise, including a formal “Have Your Say” community engagement survey. The survey attracted significant interest, with 751 responses received. Council also engaged specialist acoustics consultant, GHD, to undertake a technical noise monitoring study to assess aircraft noise levels. This study was undertaken over a 2 week period from 22 June to 6 July, with six (6) monitoring points located at representative locations around the Airport within the primary circuit training area. The results were presented to Council at the 21 October 2020 meeting, which included the following conclusions:  there has been a significant increase in pilot training circuit activities and other general aviation aircraft movements during the past 10 years;  this has led to an increase in complaints regarding aircraft noise from residents living in the vicinity of the Airport;  for those residents affected by aircraft noise, they report that circuit activities are significantly impacting their quality of life;  there is also considerable Image: Aircraft movements at Port Macquarie Airport since 2010/11 support reported by respondents for general aviation, including pilot training activities; and

 the technical noise monitoring has identified that aircraft noise in the vicinity of the airport is within “acceptable” levels (ref. AS 2021:2015 and industry standards).

The Council full report and minutes on Pilot Training and Aircraft Noise are available at: www.pmhc.nsw.gov.au/About-Us/How-Council-Works/Council-and-Committee-Meetings/Council-Meeting- Agendas-and-Minutes

At this meeting, Council resolved to “investigate the establishment of a formal “fly neighbourly agreement” to include practical measures to minimise aircraft noise in the vicinity of Port Macquarie Airport.” An Agreement would typically consider aspects such as operating procedures, times of operation, flight paths, etc. We have engaged Aviation Projects, to liaise with stakeholders and provide technical advice. Aviation Projects is currently conducting interviews and further investigations with a view to presenting a draft agreement in early 2021. Should you have any queries or require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact Peter Allen.

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Parallel taxiway project On 2 July 2020, the Federal Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications awarded Council $3,538,260 under the Regional Airports Program to construct a Stage 1 parallel taxiway and conduct essential pavement renewal works at Port Macquarie Airport. The project aims to enhance the safety and operational efficiency of Port Macquarie Airport through the construction of a 1200m code A parallel taxiway to reduce runway occupancy times for Code A general aviation aircraft and associated airspace congestion. The parallel taxiway is identified as a development priority in the Port Macquarie Airport Master Plan 2010 and companion Master Plan Addendum Report published in 2013. This project represents Stage 1 of a future full-length Code C parallel taxiway. The staged approach achieves desired safety outcomes and improves operational efficiency for current aircraft movements. The project also includes essential renewal works to resurface existing general aviation taxiways and aprons to enhance access and facilitate the delivery of essential goods and services including aeromedical and other emergency services. Pavement renewal and resurfacing will include existing taxiways F2, C1, C2 and C3, as well as aprons GA1 and GA2. The first stage of this project, the decommissioning and relocation of the Bureau of Meteorology Aerodrome Weather Information Service (AWIS) has already commenced, with the majority of services relocated in October 2020. The detailed design is underway and a DA, with Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), is expected to be lodged in early 2021. Construction of the taxiway and pavement renewal works are not expected to commence until 2022.

Image: Parallel taxiway concept design showing intersection with existing taxiways

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Security screening changes in 2021 On 8 May 2018, the Australian Government announced measures to further strengthen Australia's domestic and international aviation security. The strengthened security measures aim to ensure Australia remains a trusted destination for trade and travel and a world-leader in aviation security. The measures require regional airports to meet the types of security screening standards previously reserved for international travel. From early 2021, guests entering the departure lounge will be restricted from bringing Powders, Liquids, Aerosols and Gels into the departure lounge through the screening point. The majority of guests will also be subject to screening through a body scanner. A body scanner is a precision security screening device that uses extremely low power millimetre waves to search and detect foreign objects or anomalies on a person’s body as they pass through the screening point. If you are required to undergo body scanning screening you will be asked to remove outer layers of clothing (like jackets and jumpers) and take all items out of your pockets. Guests then stand inside the body scanner and the scanner will detect items worn or carried on the body. Be sure to inform screening officers if you have any medical devices, aids or implants before being screened. Alternative screening will be provided for those passengers who are medically or physically unable to undergo a body scan.

To protect privacy, body scanners used in Australia display a generic outline of a person with no identifying features. As pictured adjacent, the image will highlight areas that may need further investigation. Body scanners cannot store or transmit any personal or identifying information.

It is important that you follow the directions of the screening officers at all times. Refusing a direction to be scanned means you will not be allowed to pass through the security screening point or board your flight.

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A new helicopter taking to the Port skies Local business Port Macquarie Helicopters is based at the airport offering, tourist flights, charters, aerial photography and pilot training. Port Macquarie Helicopters currently operate the excellent Robinson R44 helicopter and are excited to announce the recent delivery of a brand new five-seater Robinson R66 helicopter powered by a Rolls-Royce RR300 turboshaft engine. The R66 turbine gives Port Macquarie Helicopters the most modern fleet on the Mid-North Coast and offers passengers an air-conditioned environment in a modern comfortable helicopter with exceptional views. As a proudly local family business, owner and pilot/instructor Eric Saacks, Chief Pilot and Chief flying instructor and CASA approved testing officer Neil Hughes, have been working hard to help attract more tourists to the area, which we need now more than ever before, as well as find potential pilots keen to spend time in the area while they do their training and endorsements For more information regarding scenic flights, charters, photography and weddings, local winery lunch packages or flight training, head to portmacquariehelicopters.com.au or call 0487 771 200.

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SUMMER 2020 / 21 •

Aerodrome Works Explained Significant airside aerodrome works at Port Macquarie Airport were last seen in 2013 during the lengthening, widening and a full runway asphalt overlay. We are likely to see some further significant works in the near future with the parallel taxiway and GA apron and taxiway refurbishment projects. These are all carried out under the regulatory requirements of CASA MOS Part 139 10.10.1.3 (a) (see below).

10.10.1.3 Aerodrome works may be carried out in the following manner: (a) where the works are of a nature that they will disrupt aircraft operations, they must be carried out under a proper plan called the method of working plan; and (b) where works are of a maintenance nature they must be carried out as time-limited works.

However, general and routine maintenance of airport runways, taxiways and movement areas are CASA MOS Part 139 10.10.1.3 (b) (see above & below). These are generally “Time Limited Works”.

10.10.3.2 Time-limited works include the following works: (a) maintenance of markings and lights; (b) grass mowing; (c) rolling surfaces; (d) sweeping pavements; (e) minor repairs to pavements; and (f) surveys and inspections.

So how do we do “Time Limited Works”? PMQ Airport Operations regularly conduct Time Limited Works, especially on the runway. Time Limited Works that require up to 30 minutes to return the runway to serviceability requires the issue of a NOTAM, however, if the return to service time is less than 10 min, a NOTAM is not required (10.10.3.3). The majority of runway works allow fall into the last category, and rarely require a NOTAM.

We consider our mobility first: - Inspections and minor lighting can generally be carried out by 1 person and 1 vehicle, similar to the twice daily runway inspection (inc. mowing). - Linemarking, sweeping or other specialist maintenance may require 2 or more vehicles and numerous personnel.

We consider the weather: - Usually early morning is best for calmer weather (line-marking is weather critical) - Some airfield lighting and inspections can be done throughout the day. - Crack repairs require damp pavements to identify and very dry cracks to apply sealant.

We work with traffic; - We must be in direct communication with operating aircraft and make regular CTAF broadcasts - We will always record aircraft details and advise them individually of our works (in plain language).

We consider safety; - We are wholly responsible for our own and other workers safety while on the runway. - We are responsible for advice to aircraft to ensure their safety. - We are responsible for the serviceability of the runway at all times during the works. - Operations vehicles have hi-vis markings, amber flashing lights and generally have headlights/spotlights on. PORT MACQUARIE AIRPORT NEWSLETTER WINTER 2020 I PAGE 7 OF 2

We can; - Have men and hand tools (inc. push machines) to the runway edge during aircraft operations with the pilot’s permission (ie. we will ask for your approval to operate to the runway edge - you may approve or deny).

We cannot; - Have vehicles on the runway or inside the gable markers while aircraft are operating (there are some permitted deviations from this at times).

We have; - The same priority as aircraft when we are occupying the runway for Time Limited Works (ie. an airport vehicle on the runway is the same as an aircraft on the runway). - May require you to delay your departure, landing, hold short or lineup & hold for up to 10 min. - This priority is to ensure that airport works vehicles and personnel can make good any repairs and safely vacate the runway for your aircraft (we must inspect our work area thoroughly for tools, FOD and any safety issues before vacating).

We are not deliberately delaying you; we are making sure you can safely operate. At all times, a qualified and experienced Works Safety Officer (WSO) must have complete supervision and control over any Time Limited Works. All PMQ Airport Operations Officers are fully qualified ARO/WSO’s with over 40 years combined experience. All Operations Officers are aviation RT qualified and all airport vehicles have aviation radio transmitters fitted.

So please ensure you; - Look out for airport vehicles on the runway. - Listen to CTAF for works broadcasts. - Talk to us on the radio. - Make all CASA recommended RT calls before entering the runway (taxi call & line-up calls). - Expect some minor delays if Time Limited Works are taking place.

Keep us safe and your aircraft safe.

Doug Page PMQ Airport Operations Coordinator

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Skydive Port Macquarie Hi all fellow airport users! Skydive Port Macquarie restarted after COVID 19 restrictions on the 3rd July. It has been a frustrating time for the business since our restart in August last year; we were all affected by bush fires, smoke and the wind.

Skydive Port Macquarie purchased a jump plane VH - PLH, and we are still working out of hanger 12. We now have 4 local pilots flying for us and we still have tony and Tim doing the tandem jumps.

For those not familiar with our business, we offer tandem skydives and student courses. Jumps take place up at up to 14,000 feet, with a freefall lasting around one minute. It is an experience you’ll never forget! Do you dare

We can’t wait for the new taxi way that will parallel the main runway, which is a must for Port Macquarie Airport to improve the takeoff and landings

Hope everyone is safe and your business is starting to take-off again.

All the best from Tony, Tim and Brad www.skydiveportmacquarie.com

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GUUDJI YIIGU BIRRBAYGA BARRAYGA Means “Welcome to Birpai Country” in Gathang, the traditional language of Birpai Nation. This new artwork (shown adjacent) installed at the the lounge gates was the winner of the Airport Terminal Aboriginal Artwork Design Competition for artwork that conveys a message of welcome to Birpai Land and the Port Macquarie region to visitors to the Airport. The artwork, painted by Angela Marr-Grogan, celebrates Birpai country’s saltwater and freshwater waterways, totoems, dreaming and song-lines. The terminal’s walls have also been brightened by the addition of these the wall wraps (shown below) installed within the departure lounge promtion the Greater port macqaurie region. The artworks were commisisoned by Council’s destimation marketing team, and depict some of our most treasured local tourism features and attractions.

Port Macquarie Airport | A facility of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council t: (02) 6581 8744 99 Boundary Street PO Box 84, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 portmacquarieairport.com.au

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