The newly upgraded Dorrigo Helipad was officially opened today, with the community-led project significantly enhancing the region's emergency response capabilities.
Bellingen Shire Mayor Cr. Stephen Allan, Member for Oxley - Michael Kemp MP, and Rotary Club of Dorrigo President David Woodroof were on hand to officially open the new helipad facility and the unveil a new plaque at the site.
The upgrade of this critical asset has improved disaster resilience and emergency response capabilities in the region, providing an alternative option to regular road transport down the Dorrigo Mountain – which can often be cut off due to natural disasters and vehicle accidents.
This project was made possible through generous funding and contributions from the NSW Government, Rotary Club of Dorrigo, Bellingen Red Cross, and the Bellingen Shire Council.
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Increasing the load-bearing surface of the helipad
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Installing a new lighting arrangement
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Adding new line markings and a windsock
“Today was a very important day for the Dorrigo community as we open the newly upgraded helipad,” Mayor Cr. Stephen Allan said.
“This now is a modern helipad that is fit for purpose and able to service Dorrigo community in times of emergency and make us more resilient in times of disaster.
“It will also provide to the needs of the RFS, SES and the ambulance services to help when people are in medical emergencies. Importantly, it will alleviate issues when people need to be transported from the Plateau when Waterfall Way is closed.
“This has been a wonderful community-led project with important outcomes for our residents. It has come to fruition thanks to the partnership of Rotary, the State Government, Bellingen Red Cross and the Bellingen Shire Council.”
Originally installed by Rotary in 2001, the Dorrigo Helipad has been a vital asset for various emergency services. In 2009, Rotary requested the Bellingen Shire Council to take over ownership, which was unanimously accepted by the Council in February 2010. However, changes in aviation standards necessitated a significant refurbishment to meet the current requirements.
Initial funding for the project was allocated in 2021, but construction faced significant challenges due to poor soil conditions exacerbated by groundwater, which rendered the site inaccessible for extended periods after rain.
The project received additional funding from the NSW Government in early 2023 and favourable weather conditions allowed the construction to be completed later that year, with official certification achieved in early 2024.
The refurbished helipad now meets the Civil Aviation Safety Authority standards, addressing the inadequacies of the previous structure. This critical upgrade ensures that Dorrigo and its community are better prepared for various emergencies, including bushfires, medical emergencies, and other life-threatening situations requiring rapid evacuation. The helipad provides an essential link for medical transport, especially when road access via Waterfall Way is compromised.
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NSW Government - Community Development Fund: $119,105
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Rotary Club of Dorrigo: $25,000 (via fundraising, Rotary International Disaster Relief grant and Bushfire Funding – Assist and Empower grant) and in-kind works (removal of old cricket nets)
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Bellingen Red Cross: $5,000
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Bellingen Shire Council: $35,000