NSW Government grant funding for Fly Pelican’s Cobar to Sydney air services contract is due to finish in September and, as yet, no further funding has been secured to continue the service.
The Far North West Joint Organisation (FNWJO) made up of the Bourke, Cobar and Walgett Local Government Areas, secured NSW Government grant funding in 2019 to support the return of regular passenger air services to Bourke, Cobar, Walgett, and Lightning Ridge.
Fly Pelican’s Cobar contract runs until September 2025, and Air Link’s Walgett/Lightning Ridge contract runs until November 2025.
FNWJO’s Executive Officer Ross Earl said air services play a critical role in the connectivity of regional communities.
“The Far North West Joint Organisation have engaged CJC Air and Ports to undertake an evaluation of the current air services with the evaluation being a requirement under the current funding deed,” Mr Earl explained.
Mr Earl said they are looking to include feedback from the community to determine who uses the services, and for what purpose.
“They are also asking if you don’t use the air services, tell us why not.”
They will also be conducting one on one interviews with government agencies and businesses to provide insights on who uses the flights and what it would mean if the services were to be discontinued.
To take part in the survey, go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FNWJO
