Rural institutions set for further upgrades

Published Wednesday, 20 June, 2018 at 01:30 PM

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries
The Honourable Mark Furner

The Queensland Country Women’s Association’s (QCWA) heritage halls around the state are set for another boost, after the Palaszczuk Government continued funding for further upgrades in last week’s budget.

Speaking from Biggenden in the Burnett region, Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said $500,000 was allocated for improvement works in the coming 12 months.

“We know that these halls are the heart and soul of many rural communities around the state and the place where many of our greatest memories are made,” Mr Furner said.

“That’s why at the Ekka last year, the Palaszczuk Government announced a $1 million commitment to improve QCWA halls around the state.

“The 2018-19 budget reaffirms that commitment and allows those local QCWA groups who may have missed out on funding last year to apply to have their hall upgraded.”

The original grant was awarded by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk in recognition of the QCWA’s extensive community work, including in the aftermath of Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie, and the Association’s 95th anniversary.

Mr Furner said 26 projects across central, northern and southern Queensland had been approved in the first instalment of the funding last year.

“Examples of approved projects include general building repairs, electrical and plumbing works, replacement of equipment including hot water systems, upgrading of disability ramps and access and interior and exterior painting,” he said.

“The majority of those 26 projects have commenced, with the upgrade here in Biggenden the first to be fully completed in Queensland.

“I commend the work done here by the local QCWA group to have this work done so quickly, it really is a tribute to their hard work.”

A number of additional projects are expected to be completed by the end of July.

The QCWA was established in 1922 with the aim of bringing women together to support local communities.

It remains one of Queensland’s largest women’s organisations, with more than 22 divisions and 240 branches throughout the State.

The Association has invited men to join as members since October 2016.

MEDIA: Brock Taylor – 0427 018 178