Federal LNP Member for Maranoa Bruce Scott is oncerned the Labor Government will put lives at risk with its proposal to axe nine Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) Aerodrome Forecasting Services across the electorate.
“Airstrips in Barcaldine, Blackall, Cunnamulla, Goondiwindi, Kingaroy, Quilpie, Thargomindah, Windorah and Winton are in the firing line and could have their forecasting services removed,” Mr Scott said.
“When cuts are made in the bush, it could mean the difference between life and death.
“All flights into these towns, including the Royal Flying Doctor Service and fire and rescue service, will be impacted as they won’t have access to landing conditions such as storm activity and wind strength.
“The BOM provides essential Aerodrome Forecasting Services to aircraft and if these services are cut, pilots will be flying blind.”
Mr Scott said rural communities already battle the tyranny of distance and they should not have their life-line placed in jeopardy.
“These proposed cuts have the potential to further isolate remote communities from access to essential services, particularly in those areas with complex weather conditions,” he said.
“Recently I was flying from Brisbane to Longreach and the plane was forced to refuel in Roma because of a strong head-wind.
“Weather conditions impact on a myriad of decisions a pilot makes like how much fuel is needed and if it is safe to land at a particular aerodrome because of a storm or fog.”
The proposed cuts stem from a BOM review which recommended closing aerodrome forecasting equipment at 78 regional and remote aerodromes.
“If these cuts get the OK, it will save the government a measly $7 million,” Mr Scott said.
“The Federal Government must maintain fair and equitable access to regional and rural communities and I call on the government to protect air safety in the bush.”
