The upgrade was supported by a $70,000 grant from the Regional Aviation Fund. 

Mr Rich-Phillips, who was joined at the event by Member for Swan Hill and candidate for Murray Plains Peter Walsh and Member for Rodney Paul Weller, said the funding was part of the state government’s commitment of $20 million over four years to expand the RAF.

“This significant project involved the installation of Jet A1 fuel facilities, which is required by many fixed wing aircraft and helicopters,” Mr Rich-Phillips said.

“Prior to this upgrade, the aerodrome’s fuel supply had to be delivered by truck or in drums from Albury, or aircraft operators had to source their own fuel.

“Having Jet A1 fuel available here on a permanent basis will enable greater use of the aerodrome and will make it significantly easier for local agricultural and tourism operators to run their businesses.

“The upgrade of fuel facilities also ensures greater security of fuel storage and increased safety in fuel handling and may also encourage larger planes to use the aerodrome."

Mr Rich-Phillips said the government was committed to improving regional airports so that communities could continue to benefit from the important social role that airports play.

"This is an important part of the Napthine government’s plan to revitalise our state’s aviation industry," he said.

“That’s why we are delivering on our commitment to invest in regional aviation infrastructure through the $20 million Regional Aviation Fund.

“The fund is designed to address competitive and comparative disadvantages at regional airports and support the growth of aeronautical infrastructure and other activities on regional airport sites to improve operational viability."