Viva Energy has launched its aviation fuel business to help ensure the long-term future of Geelong’s refinery and its more than 700 workers.
The company rebranded the business at Avalon Airport today after purchasing it from Shell in 2017.
“The Geelong Refinery produces 100 per cent of Avalon Airport’s jet fuel,” said Scott Wyatt, Viva Energy’s chief executive officer.
“In fact, every second flight out of Victoria takes off with our locally-supplied jet fuel which accounts for about 10 per cent of all our refinery’s production.”
Viva Energy is Australia’s largest supplier by volume, with a presence at 52 airports and airfields.
Over the next two months the company will introduce its brand and product to the airports.
Safe and reliable fuel supply was essential for Australian airlines and regional airports, and important for Geelong’s economy and local jobs, Mr Wyatt said.
“This investment in our aviation business further demonstrates our commitment to growing our business in Australia and supporting our valued airline customers.”
Viva Energy had invested more than $20 million to increase its ability to transport fuel by pipeline from the refinery by 25 per cent, Mr Wyatt said.
The company completed a $4 million upgrade to its fuel gantry at the refinery to enable the trucking of jet fuel to Avalon, he added.
Viva Energy was building a new jet fuel tank at Newport Terminal which would nearly double storage capacity for jet fuel at the terminal, Mr Wyatt said.
Corangamite MP Sarah Henderson, Corio Richard Marles and Avalon Airport chief Justin Giddings attended the launch.
