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Upgraded Marla airstrip open

Media Release | 25 September 2008

Marla airstrip will now be accessible 24-hours a day to emergency services, following a major upgrade.

State-Local Government Relations Minister Gail Gago has officially opened the improved aerodrome.

Solar-powered landing lights, sealing of the taxiway, apron and main strip, as well as improvements to the access road from the Stuart Highway, were part of the upgrade.

The $228,000 upgrade was a joint State and Federal Government project.

"This upgrade means that the Marla airstrip will be available for use 24-hours a day in almost all weather," Ms Gago says.

"Airstrips in the outback are vital to communities in the remote areas - particularly for the work of the Royal Flying Doctor Service in times of emergency.

"Marla is adjacent to both the Stuart Highway and the major rail corridor linking Adelaide with Alice Springs and Darwin, so the airstrip is crucial in the event of a major accident or emergency affecting these transport corridors.

"The airstrip is regularly used by the Royal Flying Doctor Service for clinic and emergency clearances from both Marla and the Indulkana community.

"I congratulate the Outback Areas Community Development Trust and the Marla Progress Association on their involvement with this project."