BIRTHDAY PACKAGE TO BE UNWRAPPED

MARYBOROUGH, Isis, Kilkivan, Eidsvold and Tiaro Shires will all receive funds from the Queensland Government to develop projects to mark Queensland’s 150th birthday in 2009.

Premier Peter Beattie and Minister for Local Government and Planning Andrew Fraser today announced that projects from each of the five Shires would be funded under the Legacy Infrastructure Fund, a $100 million capital works program to create legacies for Queensland’s 150th anniversary.

“2009 is an important year for our State and we need to ensure there are lasting reminders of this milestone,” Mr Beattie said.

“We’ve identified a further 79 projects across the State that we believe will create a legacy and be enjoyed by generations to come. Projects in each of these Shires are among those selected.”

Almost $6.5 million has been allocated across the five Shires for a variety of projects.

Maryborough City Council will receive $499,869 for Portside Passage, a project highlighting Maryborough’s contribution to the settlement and growth of Queensland.

The key component of this project is the development of a public open space that connects the CBD with the Mary River and Wharf Street heritage precinct.

Eidsvold Shire Council will receive $600,000 towards the design, development and construction of a regional tourist destination called the Reginald Murray Williams (RM Williams) Australian Bush Centre.

It is proposed that the centre host unique events and provide hands-on learning and activities directly linked to the history and celebration of Australian outdoor life and the legacy of RM Williams.

Isis Shire Council will receive $225,000 to undertake significant streetscape works – including gardens and walkways – to enhance the ANZAC Interactive Forum in Childers.

Tiaro Shire Council has been allocated $125,000 towards the construction of a social and recreational club in Bauple.

Kilkivan Shire Council will receive $70,000 towards the construction of a bronze-cast life-size statue of a horse, commemorating the strong association of Kilkivan with horse sports and all things equine.

“When we asked Councils to submit their proposals last year, we were looking for practical tributes. That is, projects that provide real and lasting benefits to the community for years to come,’’ Mr Fraser said.

Mr Fraser said each Council was now required to submit a project plan confirming a 2008 completion date and demonstrate their ability to secure any additional funds required to undertake the project.

Media inquiries: Premier’s office 3224 4500
Mr Fraser’s office 3227 8825
8 February 2006