Mayor Fitzpatrick statement on theft of runway lights at Merimbula airport
“We strongly condemn the act of reckless stupidity that took place on the night of September 3, between 9:00pm and 5:30am at Merimbula Airport.
Six lights were stolen from the northern end of the runway
6 September 2023
“We strongly condemn the act of reckless stupidity that took place on the night of September 3, between 9:00pm and 5:30am at Merimbula Airport.
“On this night, a person or persons illegally entered Merimbula Airport and stole six runway lights from the northern end of the runway.
“This is a clear violation of the law and demonstrates a complete disregard for community safety and airport property.
“The stolen runway lights are essential for the safe landing of aircraft, and their theft had the potential to disrupt airport operations and endanger the lives of all those using the airport.
“The matter has been reported to the NSW Police and the Australian Government's Department of Home Affairs, both of which have initiated investigations.
“The person or persons responsible should be aware that their actions carry severe consequences under the Aviation Transport Security Act 2004. Entering the airport airside area without permission carries a $5000 fine, and in this case, where theft and damage have occurred, additional charges may apply.
“We urge anyone with information related to this offense to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. Contact Crime Stoppers NSW at 1800 333 000 or submit information online at https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/. All correspondence will be confidential.
“Our Airport Management Team has installed temporary lights to ensure the continued safe use of Merimbula Airport, including night operations for our essential aeromedical and regular airline services.
“The Bega Valley community will not tolerate acts that place people’s life at risk. Those responsible will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” Cr Russell Fitzpatrick said.
Making an enquiry
All media enquiries and interview requests are coordinated by Council's Communication and Events team under the adopted Communications Policy. To view this policy, visit Public Policies and search 'communications'.
To submit a media enquiry or to request an interview:
- email media@begavalley.nsw.gov.au
- call 02 6499 2222
Councillors
Councillors can be contacted directly for enquiries regarding decisions of the elected Council and non-operational matters. Interviews with the Mayor should be arranged through the Communication and Events team contact details above.
Receiving information
If you’re a journalist or media organisation that would like to receive media releases and notifications about media opportunities, please email your name, title and contact details to media@begavalley.nsw.gov.au and we will add you to our distribution list.
You can also subscribe to Bega Valley Together and Business News, Council's fortnightly e-newsletters, or follow @begavalleyshirecouncil on Facebook and Instagram.
© Bega Valley Shire Council 2024
Our council websites
Contact Us
- 02 6499 2222
- council@begavalley.nsw.gov.au
-
Zingel Place
PO Box 492
Bega NSW 2550 -
Monday to Friday 9.00AM to 4.30PM
Administration building Zingel Place Bega
Australia -
ABN: 26 987 935 332
Was this helpful?