Today is a historic day in the National Capital, with a Seaplane touching down in Lake Burley Griffin from Rose Bay, Sydney Harbour for the first time.

Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Territories, Nola Marino MP said the establishment of a new regional air transport network connecting Sydney to Canberra will no doubt foster growth in regional aviation and tourism industries.

“There is a long way to go to examine and look at the feasibility of a new travel route between Sydney and Canberra from Sydney Seaplanes. Whilst it is an exciting prospect the proposal will need to be thoroughly reviewed by the NCA and a community consultation process will occur following the demonstration,” said Assistant Minister Marino.

Senator for the ACT Zed Seselja said the arrival of the seaplane on Lake Burley Griffin is a welcome one.

“It is great to see use of the Lake that will enhance Canberra’s tourism industry and offer a new way for Canberrans and Sydney-siders to travel between our cities,” Senator Seselja said.

“There is so much to see and do in Canberra, including visiting our magnificent institutions.”

“The Liberal-National Government is investing $500 million in the Australian War Memorial, and this year alone delivered well over $60 million in additional funding for our national institutions including the National Gallery, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Library and the National Museum.”

The coordinated demonstration of a Seaplane landing on Lake Burley Griffin will be the first step in the process managed by the National Capital Authority (NCA) to see whether a seaplane route from Sydney to Canberra is a viable one.

The seaplane will arrive on Lake Burley Griffin at approximately 11 am today near Acton Peninsula, dependant on wind and weather.

The NCA as the regulatory agency for the proposal will need to fully access the longer-term proposal by Sydney Seaplanes including but not limited to, environmental considerations/assurances, noise monitoring, infrastructure considerations and a comprehensive community consultation period.