JOHNSTONE AND CARDWELL COMMUNITY GROUPS TO SHARE IN $108,000

Community projects in the Johnstone and Cardwell Shire areas have an opportunity to share in more than $108,000 in funding as part of Powerlink’s 2007 Community Benefits Program, Minister for Mines and Energy Geoff Wilson announced today.

“The Program, associated with its Tully to Innisfail transmission line project, aims to provide tangible and lasting benefits to local communities in close proximity to new transmission line projects,” Mr Wilson said.

“In the past, Powerlink’s Community Benefits Program has funded many worthwhile projects across Queensland, including the installation of a shade shelter at a local school, purchasing books for a community lending library and landscaping for a respite centre.

“I encourage community groups in the Johnstone and Cardwell areas interested in applying for funding to contact Powerlink or their local Council to obtain an information package,” he said.

Powerlink Chief Executive Gordon Jardine said whilst construction of the new Tully to Innisfail transmission line was progressing reasonably well, the persistent wet weather meant that the expected timing for completion of the line was early 2008.

“The new transmission line is essential infrastructure necessary to ensure future high-voltage electricity supply to Far North Queensland and underpin the region’s economic growth,” Mr Jardine said.

“Through our Community Benefits Program for this project, Powerlink aims to make a positive contribution to improve services, facilities, or environmental outcomes in close vicinity to the Tully to Innisfail transmission line.”

Funding provided for the CBP is in addition to the compensation paid to landowners directly affected by the transmission line project, and is allocated to selected community projects that can demonstrate broad community support.

Applications for funding will close on Friday 24 August 2007. Community groups can obtain more information on Powerlink’s Community Benefits Program by telephoning Powerlink on Freecall 1800 635 369, or obtaining an information package at their local Council office or from Powerlink’s website www.powerlink.com.au

Media contact: Minister’s Office Brooke Johnson (07) 3224 7332

Powerlink Melissa Azzopardi 0418 181 538