However, two sections of the airstrip should be repaired next week. 

 But after repairs planes would have weight restrictions, meaning that the only service provider to the island, REX airlines, will be unable to land. 

The council’s chief executive Frank Mills said the community was upset that the main way on and off the island had been closed during December storms as well as Christmas and New Year’s holidays. 

The airport was closed on December 17 after damage to bitumen on the airstrip was found. 

“It’s a frustrating and disappointing experience for many,” Mr Mills said. 

He said it was fortunate that flooding and cyclones had not hit Mornington Island.

“We would have been in all sorts of trouble. 

“The weather gods have looked after us again,” Mr Mills said. 

A council press release stated that the Mornington Shire Council was disappointed it was not involved with discussions between Rex Airlines and the Department of Transport regarding runway preparation. 

That “barrier” of lack of communication was now resolved, Mr Mills said on Friday. 

“We’re all on the same page,” he said. 

The weight restriction at the airport after the airstrip was fixed would be 5700 kilograms. 

“Which essentially means Rex won’t be able to land out there,” Mr Mills said. 

“A shuttle service is being looked at between Mornington Island to Normanton – on a smaller plane.” 

State Member for Mount Isa Rob Katter was pushing for former service provider Skytrans to provide the shuttle services. 

“Skytrans can immediately get passengers to Normanton to meet the normal Gulf route,” Mr Katter said. 

“The disruption of this service is hurting the livelihoods of people on Mornington Island.”