A Sunshine Coast aerodrome that dates back to 1931 is set to soar into the future as a hub for aviation innovation, maintenance and advanced manufacturing.
Caloundra Aerodrome, owned by Sunshine Coast Council, will be expanded with the development of an exciting new precinct called Caloundra Aerospace Park.
There will be a range of lots available within the 6.3 hectare land release, with parcels either side of Pathfinder Drive which will be extended to the south-west.
Long-term leases will be available and incoming businesses will join a number of leading Queensland operators already enjoying success at the location.
The aerodrome is currently home to a range of leading aviation businesses and the Queensland Air Museum, which has been attracting aviation fans for more than half a century.
This prominent site also houses the Australian Air Force Cadets and has trained countless pilots for recreational, commercial and military flying.
Its expansion is part of a detailed Caloundra Aerodrome Master Plan 2042 that has been shaped by extensive input from community and industry representatives.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli emphasised the positive impact the expansion would have on the region's employment, growth and investment, while containing any noise impact in the surrounding areas.
"This expansion is not about more aircraft in the sky," Mayor Natoli said.
"It's about boosting the scale and diversity of our local economy, attracting new investment and enabling the businesses already operating in the precinct to grow.
"Once Stage One of the Master Plan is tenanted and businesses are operational, Caloundra Aerospace Park is set to create hundreds of new jobs and contribute more than $75 million per annum to our local economy."
The masterplan supports investment in new infrastructure including extending Pathfinder Drive, as well as electrical, plumbing, water and sewer upgrades.
The expansion aligns with the Sunshine Coast Regional Economic Development Strategy, which promotes high-value industries like aviation, aerospace and advanced manufacturing.
Tender opportunities
Sunshine Coast Council is seeking tender submissions from Australian and overseas tenants looking for long-term ground leases.
This opportunity will suit aviation-related businesses working in a range of areas, including maintenance, repair, advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies.
Mayor Natoli said Caloundra Aerospace Park was strategically positioned 100km from Brisbane city centre, 20km from the Maroochydore City Centre and less than 4km from Caloundra's CBD.
"This new stage is an exciting opportunity for existing tenants, Sunshine Coast businesses or new players to the region," Mayor Natoli said.
