Rockhampton Airport plans to commence international test flights from 2018

Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow proposed launching international test flights at Rockhampton Airport over six months from early 2018 (The Morning Bulletin, 25-Jul-2017). Rockhampton Councillor Neil Fisher stated the trial is a "long-term, strategic decision", and there is no need for a "big capital spend in order to operate an international airport, we would only need to cover the costs of customs officers and possibly some incentives to get a kick-start". The council hopes Rockhampton can become a centre for the air export of Australian beef.