State shores up Birdsville and Bedourie school flood defences

Several outback Queensland communities will have extra protection from devastating floods, with the Newman Government providing $476,454 in grants to protect Birdsville and Bedourie primary schools and to keep roads open.

Community Recovery and Resilience Minister David Crisafulli said the money would allow the Diamantina Shire Council to install $42,000 in drainage to protect the Bedourie School and town hall.

The Birdsville community would also receive $23,000 to investigate and design a stormwater drain to draw water away from the local school and town hall.

A Royalties for the Regions grant of $411,454 would keep outback roads open with an all-weather access road on the Cacoory-Stoney Crossing Road at Benitoota Crossing.

“We’re carrying out the most ambitious infrastructure plan in a generation,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“It will mark a turning point for communities threatened by flooding and, to achieve that, it has to be community led.

“Locals know best what their community needs to be protected and we’ll drive maximum value from the funds that we’ve got to deliver those defences.”

Mr Crisafulli said the Newman Government was determined to better protect communities around the state.

“After years of governments being focused on rebuilding after disasters, we’re recognising that floods are part of life here in Queensland and we’ve got to defend ourselves,” he said.

“This government is looking to the future and is determined to let communities take the lead on flood protection.

“This funding for the Diamantina Shire Council to protect schools and build more resilient roads will make everyone safer.”

[ENDS] 30 August 2013

Media contact: Monica Rostron 0409 126 332