Ipswich, Beaudesert, Gatton, and Laidley Community Groups to share $267,000

Community projects in the Ipswich, Beaudesert, Gatton, and Laidley Shire areas will have an opportunity to share in more than $267,000 in funding as part of Powerlink Queensland’s 2007 Community Benefits Program, Minister for Energy Geoff Wilson announced today.

“Community groups in these areas will benefit from the $267,000 Community Benefits Program (CBP) associated with Powerlink’s Middle Ridge to Greenbank transmission line project,” Mr Wilson said.

“Powerlink’s Community Benefits Program aims to provide lasting benefits to local communities.

“In the past, Powerlink’s Community Benefits Program has funded many worthwhile community 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 Ipswich, Beaudesert, Gatton and Laidley 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 construction of the new Middle Ridge to Greenbank transmission line was progressing well and was due to be completed in the coming summer.

“The new transmission line will ensure future high-voltage electricity supply to South East 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 Middle Ridge to Greenbank transmission line,” he said.

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 21 September 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 inquiries:     Minister’s Office     Brooke Johnson       (07) 3224 7332

                         Powerlink              Melissa Azzopardi     0418 181 538