The more the merrier. With the Jetstarisation of their routes, this will be another prod to get QF passengers over to VA. Well done. 

Any comment on DRW?  There is some minor renovations around the terminal at the moment, but nothing that would suggest space for even an AirNZ style cafe until the terminal expansion program kicks in.

Nil more on Darwin, if JB had mentioned anything I'd have dropped that into the article.

Below is an email I received within the last few months from a Darwin Airport representative. As far as I know, the timetabling hasn't changed...

construction timetable for the Terminal Expansion ie:

• ·         eastern end – construction to commence 2 quarter 2012 with the construction period being up to 16 months;nd
• ·         western end – construction to commence early 2013 with a construction period up to 14 months; and
• ·         western end construction will commence before the eastern end is completed.

The Virgin Lounge may be completed in the first quarter 2013 but will certainly be completed by June 2013.

Interesting that JB mentioned nothing

Yeah, considering they flagged this lounge earlier this year it was odd that JB didn't chuck it into the run-down.

I'm not familiar with a sod being turned at the Qantas end of DRW.  I know the interior has been tarted up for the international end, so clearing customs is easier.  There is a lot of work to do before a lounge can be installed.  They must be counting their lucky stars we have an El Nino anticipated this year, which means construction can go right through to December before the wet kicks in.

Clarified again with DRW Airport and the situation has changed with the contract yet to be awarded "yet will be awarded shortly". 

The majority of construction will occur in 2013. Both ends of the terminal will now be constructed at the same time or near the same time. It is estimated the eastern end will be complete early 2014 and the western end late 2014.

Typical airline view of Hobart - giving a State Capital a regional lounge!

You're lucky that Tasmania is even considered a state and not an island belonging to Victoria! :P

Correct, Tasmania is just one big national park but considering Borghetti wants to serve the corporate market, he sees it worth it because of the amount of politicians. He wants to make the switch viable for as many as possible. Anything that gives him a bigger serving of the corporate travel pie, he seems to appreciate.

CBR opening 13 March this year

We've heard the same, but are awaiting confirmation from VA/CBR.