AIRFIELD GRANT
The Queensland Department of Natural Resources & Water has approved a Lifestyle Waterwise Grant for not-for profit organisations to the Darling Downs Sport Aircraft Association based on the Clifton airfield.
The grant of $11,000 has been approved to provide extra water storage capacity for building run off and associated plumbing for watering of the airfield. The object of the grant is to harvest rain water, minimise water use and establish more efficient use of available water supplies.
The opportunity to have a better maintained grass surface will provide a better ecology , cleaner and safer operating surface, a more all weather airfield with less impact on the environment and an overall cheaper alternative to other surfaces.
Some of the operators that will gain from the enhanced surface includes agricultural aviation operators, University of Southern Queensland Cultural Integration and aviation training, Scouting movement, local business interests such as real estate, Field and Retrieving Association for Gun Dogs for Club, State and National competitions, Emergency services, Search and Rescue, military training, air freight and flying training by the Lone Eagle Flying School.
The airfield adds to the attractions of the district for tourism and business operators in providing real economic benefits for the Clifton community. The activities provide income through tourism as well as direct income from fuel, accommodation, meals and general shopping. The existence of the airfield has generated relocation and building in the district by people attracted to the area.
New mower for Clifton airfield
The Queensland Governments Gambling Community Benefit Fund provided $30,000 to the Darling Downs Sport Aircraft Association for the purchase of a new out front ride on mower.
Club President, Clive Nielsen, said the new mower will provide a safer and better quality airfield surface whilst providing a safer environment for the operator. The mower will be more efficient than a slasher, will not be as damaging to the couch surface and will optimise volunteer workers hours. It will provide a greater utility and availability of the airfield over longer periods and provide for more diverse recreational uses of the airfield.
Mr. Nielsen acknowledged the very generous financial support of the Queensland Governments Gambling Community Benefit Fund and the assistance provided by Chesterfield Machinery at Dalby who acknowledged the value of the project to the community and the volunteer work carried out by club members.
The mower was on display by the club on a specially organised day for the local Clifton community and invited guests from various support organisations.
Mr. Ray Hopper MP, thanked the Association for its support of the local community and the ethos of volunteerism that exists in the club. The provision of affordable flight training by the Lone Eagle Flying School is recognised throughout western Queensland. Mr Hopper noted that the Club kitchen has also been funded by the Federal Government through the Volunteer Small Equipment Grants Scheme.
