Aviation project takes shape at Mudgee airport
Mudgee-based air charter company Observe Air expects to move into their new premises at Mudgee Airport Estate before the end of the year.
Chief Pilot Brad Welch said the new three-quarter-million-dollar building, incorporating a four-aircraft hangar, accommodation and residence, was taking shape rapidly.
The complex is the first building to be built on the new Mudgee Airport sub-division and the first new development at the airport in many years.
“The complex will provide hangar space for four aircraft to meet Observe Air’s growth,” Mr Welch said.
“In addition, the complex will have five rooms of luxury accommodation catering for the general aviation market.
“The accommodation will also have disabled access and a dining room.”
Observe Air plans to develop a general aviation CASA-approved flying school in the complex.
When completed, the complex will be a seasonal base for the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) in times of bushfire as Observe Air is an approved RFS “call when needed” operation.
Observe Air also provides training for RFS air attack and air observer courses in various parts of the state.
Architect Maurice Patten said the design of the steel construction was inspired by World War II hangars.
“It is of a barrel vault structural form – that is, a wine barrel cut in half,” he said.
“The hangar entry from the runway is of pure barrel vault design of the same form as the formal entry facing the adjacent vineyard.
“Certainly the inspiration for the design has been influenced by the local wine industry.
“To this end the pilots’ lounge on the first floor overlooks the neighbouring vineyard.”
The residential complex is to be known as “Hangar House”.
Mr Patten said he expected it to be completed by the end of the year, weather permitting.
“The project is being constructed by local builder Peter Barlow and it is moving quickly with the first floor concrete to be poured next week,” he said.
Mr Welch recognised the assistance of Mid-Western Regional Council from the lodgment of the development application to completion of services such as sewerage, water, power, storm water drainage and telephone access.