Dr Mark Turnbull, widely known as the Flying Doctor, is calling on communities across Torba to clear and maintain five bush airstrips to allow his medical flights to reach the islands.
The five airstrips are located at Toga in the Torres Islands, Wesley in West Vanua Lava, Saranda on Motalava, Mota and Merelava.
Three of the airstrips have become overgrown, while Mota and Merelava have already been cleared.
Mota Airstrip Reopens After Three Years
Dr Turnbull has made his first landing at Mota Airstrip in three years, following efforts by the local community to clear the runway.
Torba Provincial Government Vice President, Hon. John Bennette Somwia, told VBTC News he was pleased to see the people of Mota take the initiative to reopen the airstrip.
He said the closure had created difficulties for patients needing medical assistance, particularly when rough seas made boat travel challenging.
“After some years without Dr Mark landing at the small airport in Mota, we faced challenges, especially for sick patients who had to cross the sea. Sometimes the sea was rough. Now that the airstrip has been cleared, he has started landing in Mota again.”
He called on the people of Mota to continue working together to keep the airstrip clear so that Wings of Hope Flying Service, operated by Dr Turnbull, can continue landing there.
Plan to Upgrade Mota Airstrip
Somwia said the provincial government also plans to upgrade Mota Airstrip so it can accommodate an Air Vanuatu Twin Otter aircraft.
He said the community would continue clearing the area and seeking support from others to progress the work.
“We are thinking about how we can start clearing it again. Dr Mark’s plane is now landing, and we will continue asking everyone for help.”
Work Planned for Toga Airstrip
Meanwhile, VBTC News spoke with Dr Turnbull’s agent in Torres, Samson Marshel, who said work to clear the airstrip at Toga is expected to begin this month.
VBTC News also sought updates on the other bush airstrips in Torba but was unable to obtain further information.
