Grass roots rural infrastructure projects get green light: Fraser

6 March 2007

Grass roots rural infrastructure projects get green light: Fraser

Community halls, playgrounds and a vital airport link are just some of the projects to receive a funding green light today as part of more than $15 million in subsidies announced by the State Government.

Local Government and Planning Minister Andrew Fraser said today’s announcement provided a significant boost to rural Queensland’s cultural and community infrastructure.

“This funding is allocated under the Rural Living Infrastructure Program which gives rural councils an important step-up in providing the sort of infrastructure people in larger towns and cities might take for granted,” Mr Fraser said.

“Our rural councils don’t have the financial resources of larger city councils, so it’s important the State Government supports these local community projects.

“These projects will make a significant contribution to the cultural and recreational opportunities in these areas.

“They enable rural towns to showcase their unique identities to tourists while increasing employment opportunities and living standards across the state.”

Mr Fraser said 42 councils throughout the state would receive funding towards a range of projects, including revitalising streetscapes, upgrading community halls and parklands and providing improved facilities for tourism and recreation.

Key projects announced today include:

• $285,030 for the Streetscape Revitalisation Program in Mitchell

• $600,000 for construction of a new community workshop complex on Boigu Island

• $450,000 for construction of the True Blue tourist facility in Croydon

• $370,160 for revitalisation of Hughenden CBD;

• $63,734 for improved ‘digital ready’ television and radio services for Ilfracombe

• $270,000 for stage three of the Childers Streetscape

• $156,156 for construction of a new airport terminal at Richmond

• $150,000 for third stage of the Stanthorpe CBD revitalisation

“These are all very worthwhile projects that will make a real difference in rural communities throughout the state,” Mr Fraser said.

“Rural communities are the heartland of the state, so it is important that we support projects that help these communities to grow.

“We have committed $29 million over the next five years under this Program and that is a significant investment in the future of rural Queensland.”

Media Contact Chris Taylor 3227 8825

Selina Steele 3224 6509