Mackay scores better facilities and cash injection

Local jobs and quality of life will soon be improved in the Mackay region with the Newman Government supporting council to upgrade seven water supply schemes.

Queensland Local Government Minister David Crisafulli, Member for Whitsunday Jason Costigan and Mackay Regional Council (MRC) Mayor Deirdre Comerford announced in Mackay today funding for projects from the Local Government, Grants and Subsidies Program.

Mr Costigan said $361,480 had been set aside to help the MRC upgrade water supplies at Bloomsbury, Calen, Koumala, Armstrong Beach, Alligator Creek, Finch Hatton and Gargett.

“Council have put forward those projects as priorities for our region, and we’ve stretched every dollar to give maximum value for money,” Mr Costigan said.

Mr Crisafulli said the State was working closely with council to build infrastructure while also creating jobs at an important time.

“This must be the year of delivery for all levels of government and we’re making projects happen to help councils deliver a better lifestyle for their communities,” he said.

“There was a time only a few years ago when it would take nearly a year for the State Government to call for applications and award funding for these types of projects.

“This year it has been completed in six weeks.

“For the first time, this money will be spent entirely this financial year so as well as improving what makes our communities special it will also be injecting money at the right time.”

[ENDS] 17 JULY 2013

Media contact: Monica Rostron 0409 126 332