Premier and Minister visit Stanthorpe and Warwick

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Minister for Agricultural Industry Development Mark Furner have visited Warwick and Stanthorpe to see first-hand the effects of the long-term drought.

The Premier said it was vital to meet face to face with the Southern Downs Mayor as well as locals to confront critical water shortages threatening Stanthorpe’s supply.

“This drought has been going on for seven years, taking a huge toll on families and communities,” the Premier said.

The State Government has joined the council with drought assistance measures including:

• $13.6 million to kick start the new Emu Swamp Dam
• $3.939 million replacing pipelines between Storm King Dam and Mount Marley Water Treatment Plant
• $950,000 to the Southern Downs Regional Council to progress water security projects related to new and rejuvenated bores and fixing leaks in the reticulation system
• $600,000 in freight subsidies
• $300,000 in Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Assistance to 56 producers

A further $2.87 million has been provided to the council this year under the Works for Queensland program supporting 27 jobs.

Sixty-five per cent of Queensland is drought declared with many places in their seventh year without worthwhile rain.

Media contact:

Shane Doherty

0439 624 473