Wyalkatchem winging it

The big wheels are rolling in Wyalkatchem, but they are not sprayers or spreaders, but scrapers, bulldozers and graders as work commences to build the town an airport.

Using Royalties for Regions money, the $2 million upgrade will incorporate a new cross strip and taxiways.

The project aims to free up space at Jandakot airport for training purposes and facilitate the growing need for flights to and from the Wheatbelt.

Shire of Wyalkatchem chief executive Peter Kocian said he was thrilled about the new opportunities the strip would bring to the town.

Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said the upgrade had already provided a significant and much needed funding boost to the town as local suppliers of goods and services had been used were possible.

Project manager Brett Howson said after months of design and consultation they were very pleased to be starting the upgrade.

"It's only 140 nautical miles from Perth, has over 300 flyable days compared to Perth's 170 to 200 flyable days and noise is much less of an issue."

Along with the new cross strip and taxiways there will be a $500,000 terminal facility, flight preparation rooms and conference and training rooms. There will also be a meals area and a foyer with a flight museum.

The upgrade should be finished before the end of May deadline.

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