Would love to see Essendon get this....still being decided apparently.
Avalon misses out on $40m facility, claims Koch - Local News - Geelong, VIC, Australia
Avalon misses out on $40m facility, claims Koch
A LEAKED treasury memo reveals Avalon has missed out on the $40 million state Aviation Training Academy, a leading local Liberal says.
Avalon Airport was bidding for the academy against Tullamarine and Essendon airports, but Liberal MLA David Koch yesterday said a leak from within government said the Geelong facility had missed out.
The school is to be Victoria's first aviation engineering academy, drawing 800 students at levels from traineeships to PhDs.
"I have been reliably informed the Government has turned its back on Avalon getting the Aviation Training Academy at this stage," Mr Koch said.
"There have been a series leaks out of the treasurer's office. It was brought to my attention that a memo leaked from the treasurer's expenditure review committee has put any announcements on hold at this stage," Mr Koch said.
"It's unlikely any announcements will be made before the election. It will be held over until after the election. Melbourne Airport, I was advised, would be favoured in front of Avalon."
Mr Koch said the Government had dropped the ball for Geelong.
"On the back of the Tiger launch this week it was disappointing to learn that the Government had failed to capitalise on this great facility," he said.
Regional Development Minister Jacinta Allan told the Advertiser the location was still being considered.
G21 lobby group head Elaine Carbines said it would be hugely disappointing if Avalon did not win the academy. "This region has got behind Avalon Airport and the Academy," Ms Carbines said.
Linfox's Avalon Airport manager Justin Giddings said the city had put a huge effort into the application.
"We are definitely not giving up. We still think is the best spot to put the academy. Tullamarine doesn't have a flexibility to provide the range of services. Avalon has got the greatest chance for expansion in Victoria and probably in Australia," he said.
Labor Lara MP John Eren said his party had been the strongest supporter of Avalon
"The Aviation Academy is still being decided," he said.