Statement from the Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga, Cr Greg Conkey OAM

Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga, Councillor Greg Conkey OAM, has described last week's meeting in Sydney with REX’s Chairman, Lim Kim Hai, and Deputy Chairman, John Sharp, as positive and an opportunity to hear directly from REX about their legitimate concerns.

"There is no doubt the relationship between REX and the City of Wagga Wagga has come under great strain," Cr Conkey said.

"I am looking forward, with the support of my fellow councillors and staff, to rebuilding that strong relationship and trust, and that started with our meeting on Friday.

"Council agrees that the REX media release on the issue of increases to head taxes was factually correct and should not have been disputed."

Cr Conkey said that as part of the discussions and consultation with REX, Council on Monday night resolved to:

• Reduce the proposed passenger head tax increase of $2.86 down to $1.10 effective from 1 March 2017;
• Make a co-contribution of $90,000 (with REX contributing an equal or greater amount) for additional essential work at the Aircraft Paint Hangar; and
• Establish an airport advisory committee to advise Council on all aspects relating to the airport including the financial and operational decision making of the airport and the setting of future airport fees and charges

"Council will work cooperatively with REX over the next few weeks to finalise the details of the negotiations," Cr Conkey said.

"We are proud of the fact that Wagga Wagga is the home of REX.

'We greatly value their strong support of not only Wagga Wagga specifically, but also rural and regional Australia."