Community projects to benefit from Powerlink program

Community projects in Ipswich and the shires of Beaudesert, Gatton and Laidley have one more week to apply for a share in more than $260,000 of grants, Minister for Mines and Energy Geoff Wilson said today.

The Minister said Powerlink had set aside funds for community projects in conjunction with the organisation’s Middle Ridge to Greenbank transmission line project which is reinforcing the electricity supply to south east Queensland.

“The Community Benefits Program is a commendable initiative. It is Powerlink’s way of giving something back to local communities near their transmission line projects,” Mr Wilson said.

“Powerlink has helped fund many worthwhile community projects across Queensland, including books for a community lending library, furniture for an emergency respite house, the interior painting of a hall and a school shade shelter,” he said.

Powerlink Chief Executive Gordon Jardine said the new transmission line was vital in securing the future of the high-voltage electricity supply to south east Queensland.

“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,” Mr Jardine 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 - Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819

Powerlink – Melissa Azzopardi 0418 181 538