By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
JETSTAR sometimes reduced its flights from Avalon to three a day during last winter, an election forum has heard in Geelong.
Avalon Airport workers told the forum the number of ground staff was now down to 10 or 11 from a high of 30.
The airport was going through a “slow demise” with a lack of government investment, staff said.
“Avalon Jetstar is competing against Tullamarine Jetstar,” one staff member, who asked not to be identified, said.
“We’re hoping things pick up during the summer season because if Jetstar pull out Avalon will be left with nothing but a car park.”
The Independent has reported calls in recent months by Mayor Darryn Lyons and Geelong business leaders to “use it or lose it”.
Australian Services Union (ASU) organised the forum last week, inviting candidates from all parties to address the future of the beleaguered facility.
ASU Victorian secretary Ingrid Stitt raised fears over the future of the Jetstar flights after an $11 million grant from State Government and Avalon to keep the airline at Avalon ran out in April.
“That poses questions about the job security of our members working at Avalon and about the future of Avalon as credible second airport for Victoria,” Ms Stitt said.
Jetstar has steadily wound back flights at Avalon in recent years, cutting services between the airport and centres including Adelaide, the Gold Coast and Brisbane.
Sydney is the only Jetstar destination now available from Avalon.
