Tooradin Airport

Tooradin Airfield sits on the outskirts of the small coastal town of Tooradin, around 60 kilometres southeast of Melbourne's CBD. It is a general aviation airstrip with no scheduled commercial services, used primarily for flight training, skydiving, aircraft hire, and scenic tours. The single sealed runway lies within uncontrolled airspace, meaning there is no control tower — pilots coordinate by radio on a common frequency. A distinctive feature of the airfield is the presence of three windsocks, which often point in different directions, making landings a test of skill. The wreck of a small ship lies near the field, adding an unusual landmark. The airfield is open during daylight hours only, with peak activity typically on weekday mornings and evenings according to local flying patterns.

Getting There

Tooradin Airfield is located on the South Gippsland Highway, approximately 60 kilometres from Melbourne. By car, the drive takes 45 minutes to one hour under normal traffic conditions. From Melbourne, take the M1 motorway south-east towards Dandenong, then exit onto the South Gippsland Highway (A440). Continue through Cranbourne and Koo Wee Rup; the airfield is on the left-hand side just before reaching the Tooradin town centre. There is a wheelchair-accessible car park on site. Public transport options are limited: the nearest train station is Cranbourne station on the Cranbourne line, about 20 kilometres away. From there, a taxi or rideshare is the most practical way to reach the airfield. No bus services stop directly at the airfield. For those flying in, the airfield is easy to spot from the air, with the runway oriented roughly north-south. The surrounding flat farmland and proximity to Western Port Bay make it a simple visual approach.

Inside the Terminal

There is no traditional terminal building at Tooradin Airfield. The main structure is a modest clubhouse that houses the flying school and provides a waiting area. The building has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and basic seating. There are no public toilets, no drinking water fountains, and no shops. The on-site restaurant, Wings & Fins, is currently closed with no confirmed reopening date — do not expect to buy food or drinks here. Passengers arriving for skydiving or scenic flights should be prepared with their own supplies. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, typical of a small general aviation airfield. Staff and regulars are known to be helpful and welcoming. Check-in for flights is informal: you meet your instructor or pilot at the clubhouse or near the aircraft. Security screening is non-existent; you may walk directly from the car to the plane. The airfield does not have a luggage carousel or baggage handling — bring only what you need onboard. For departures, simply drive in, park, and walk to the aircraft. The simplicity is part of its charm, but visitors must come prepared for limited services.

Tooradin Airfield and Tooradin

The town of Tooradin is a quiet coastal settlement on the shores of Western Port Bay, about 60 km south of Melbourne. Its history as a fishing village is still evident in the working boat ramp and the seafood available at local shops. Today, it serves as a holiday destination for Melburnians seeking a weekend escape by the water. The nearby Tooradin Wetlands offer birdwatching opportunities with several species of waterbirds, and the area is popular for boating, kayaking, and fishing.

The airfield itself is deeply connected to the local landscape. It provides the only aviation access to the region for small aircraft. Flight training is the most common activity, with a flying school on site offering recreational and private pilot licences. Scenic tours depart from here to French Island and Phillip Island — the latter famous for its penguin parade and wildlife park. Skydiving operations draw thrill-seekers, and the drop zone offers views over Western Port Bay. The airfield also sees traffic from private pilots practicing circuits or stopping over for a visit to the town.

The shipwreck located near the airfield is a curious landmark. While details are sparse, it adds a touch of history to the otherwise functional site. The three windsocks — sometimes pointing in opposite directions — are a talking point among pilots, reflecting the variable wind conditions that can make landing interesting.

Tooradin itself is worth exploring. The town centre has a small general store, a pub, and a fish and chip shop. The Tooradin Estate winery is a short drive away. For nature lovers, the Western Port Bay coastline offers walking trails and picnic spots. The airfield effectively functions as a gateway for those wanting to see the islands from above, or for aviation enthusiasts who enjoy the low-key, unpretentious atmosphere that small country airstrips provide.

Practical Information

• Hours: The airfield is not open 24 hours; it operates during daylight hours, roughly from dawn to dusk. Specific opening times vary, so call ahead if visiting outside typical flight school hours.
• Contact: Phone +61 3 5998 3722 | Website: tooradinairport.com.au
• Facilities: Wheelchair-accessible entrance and car park. No public toilets or food (restaurant closed). The flying school may offer water but bring your own.
• Fees: Landing is free for visiting aircraft, but note that airport fees have reportedly increased recently — confirm current charges before arrival.
• Tips: The restaurant status may change; always check before planning a meal. Be prepared for variable wind directions — the three windsocks are a good indicator. If you are a student pilot, the friendly environment makes this a great place for practice. For skydiving, book in advance as slots fill up.
• Final piece of advice: Pack a bottle of water and snacks, and confirm the restaurant is still closed before you go — you will not find any public amenities on site.