SNOWY
MOUNTAINS FAMILY OPEN DAY (May 2005)
THERE was
movement at the airport, for the word had passed around
That the crew from Regional Express were on their way…
Rex
landed at Cooma on Saturday 14 May for the Snowy Mountains Family
Open Day in celebration of Rex's looming service to the region.
Greeted by a congregation of supporters and applause upon touch
down, it was clear the sunshine wasn't the only sign it was
going to be a memorable day for Rex.
After initial introductions and welcomings, Kevin Blyton (Chairman of Snowy
Mountains Airport Corporation), Geoff Breust (Managing Director of Rex), Richard
Wallace (Mayor of the Snowy River Shire Council), and Steve Whan (State Member
for Monaro) took to the stage with speeches denoting their excitement and anticipation
for the upcoming service. Next up the public were invited to walk the runway
(which hadn't presented a service since 2001) and inspect the Saab.
The
entourage was then treated by local dance and music performers
and was free to inspect the market day stalls, purchase some
Rex merchandise and have a bite to eat, while the kids enjoyed
scoring a balloon and taking part in the colouring competition.
As
always the Rex marquee was a most pleasant refuge for special
guests who enjoyed a selection of cheeses, sipped wine, delighted
in a foot massage, and listened to a live radio broadcast by
local station, Snow FM.
Yet
the highlight of the day was the three
scenic flights. The flights provided
a magnificent bird's eye view of the
Snowy Mountains range, including sights
such as Lake Jindabyne, Mt Kosciuszko,
the snow resorts, Mt Selwyn, the historic
towns of Khancoban, Cabramurra and Kiandra,
and Lake Eucumbene. The helicopter joy
rides were a hit too.
Rex's
Managing Director Geoff Breust said the
day provided a great way to introduce
the new Rex air service which will link
the region with Sydney and beyond and
a valuable opportunity to support local
community groups.
Funds raised from the scenic flights and other activities on the day were
donated to Disabled WinterSport Australia and the Cooma Hospital .
Disabled WinterSport Australia is a sporting organization which provides
opportunities for people with disabilities to ski and experience Australia
's winter playgrounds with their fellow skiers. The Cooma Hospital provides
a vital service to the Monaro and surrounding districts.
SO the troop from
Regional Express is a household word
to-day,
And the Snowy folk tell the story of the day.