The latest edition of Gibber Gabber features Andamooka Airport (YAMK) on the front page, marking the official opening and recognising the multi-year community effort behind the project.
The article outlines the operational capability of the 1,210-metre runway, including RFDS access, solar night lighting, perimeter fencing, live weather monitoring and compliance with CASA MOS-139 and RFDS operational requirements.
Importantly, the article also notes:
“With Andamooka lacking a local council and the local Andamooka Opal Miners Progress Association not contributing funding…”
Since the project commenced in 2021, the airport has progressed through a combination of volunteer labour, Federal and State funding support, corporate in-kind contributions, Kokatha Aboriginal Corporation engagement, and structured community fundraising activities delivered by AOFTA under its existing governance framework.
The airport has been operational for RFDS activities since 30 June 2025 and continues to support emergency access, specialist medical services and regional aviation movements.
The project demonstrates what can be achieved through coordinated governance, regulatory compliance and community-led infrastructure delivery in remote South Australia.
We acknowledge the many volunteers, technical advisors, contractors and partner organisations who contributed to bringing YAMK back into service.
