Bridge named in honour of Kevin Allery

A prominent Blackbutt identity, the late Kevin Allery, will be recognised for his contribution to his community and Nanango Shire at a bridge-naming ceremony at Taromeo Creek on the D'Aguilar Highway today.

Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt today said the previously unnamed bridge, which is on the western edge of the Blackbutt Township, would be known as the Kevin Allery Bridge.

"Mr Allery served the people of Nanango Shire as a councillor for 29 years and, given his long-standing contribution to the Blackbutt community, it is fitting the bridge be named in his honour," Mr Pitt said.

"Mr Allery was born in Toogoolawah in June 1927 and attended both Blackbutt and Benarkin primary schools. He was a keen sportsman who played tennis, football and represented the South Burnett in cricket.

"He spent his working life in the timber industry, establishing a family business in this trade."

Main Roads Acting District Director Doug Head, who is attending today's ceremony, said Mr Allery worked alongside the people of Blackbutt to establish the town's building society, doctor's surgery, swimming pool, information centre and council office.

"He worked to have water re-routed from Wivenhoe Dam to Blackbutt and, at the time of his death, was helping to establish a respite centre and aged care facility in the town," Mr Head said.

"Mr Allery was president and patron of numerous committees including Blackbutt's school P and C, cricket club, football club and the Blackbutt and District Tourism and Heritage Committee.”

Mr Allery died in 2005 aged 78. He is survived by his wife Joan and children Ken, Debbie and Kevin.  Mr Pitt said the proposal to honour Mr Allery at the bridge-naming ceremony was put forward by Nanango Shire Council.

Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3227 8819