Contractors were onsite at the Cootamundra’s Aerodrome last week, putting the finishing touches to the new runway surface.
The Stronger Country Communities Round Two (SCCFR2) funding has enabled CootamundraGundagai Regional Council (CGRC) to construct a starting pad surface on the current runway at the aerodrome suitable for drag racing events. The SCCFR2 grant is an initiative of the NSW State Government and is administered by CGRC.
The new surface is the same product used in other motorsport tracks such as Mount Panorama in Bathurst. The special mix and design will stop damage to the existing runaway surface, make for a smoother landing for airplanes. The higher quality section of the first 70m will enable better traction for high powered vehicles, making it safer, and will make the event more inviting to more car owners. Less rocks will be thrown up on launch, meaning cars will not be damaged. The surface will also give better traction over the first 70m. The drag racing events are of great financial benefit to Cootamundra and nearby towns and bring in many competitors and spectators.
The purpose built starting pad will prevent damage caused to the existing runway surface by the accelerating tyres which will minimize maintenance costs. Each of these events brings between 60-100 cars and 400-600 crew and staff, all of which require accommodation, food and supplies while in town for two days. The additional income that such meetings generate into the economies of Cootamundra and nearby towns is of significant benefit to our communities and boosts viability and sustainability. Council is currently investigating the installation of area dedicated to the loading of firefighting aircraft with water and fire retardant materials. Should this project attract the approvals from Council and Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The area will create a more efficient aircraft loading area to a site away from taxying aircraft.
This project will also be funded by SCCFR2. CGRC mayor Cr Abb McAlister said the improvements at the aerodrome are of great benefit to the community. It is envisaged the new surface will encourage the scheduling of additional race meets in Cootamundra. The new area for the loading of firefighting aircraft will allow the current runaway to remain open for aircraft to land in an emergency situation,” Cr McAlister said. Member for Cootamundra Steph is delighted the Cootamundra-Gundagai community will be able to enjoy safer and more exciting drag racing thanks to the NSW Government grant.
“Drag racing is such a thrilling spectator sport, and this new surface will make for even more gripping contests, quite literally,” Ms Cooke said. “It will also improve safety, an absolutely critical benefit, while also making events at the aerodrome an even greater drawcard for visitors.”
