Innisfail celebrates opening of new Pease Park facilities: Pitt

Local Government Minister and Member for Mulgrave Warren Pitt has officially opened the restored and upgraded community facilities at Innisfail’s Pease Park, just 20 months after they were devastated by Tropical Cyclone Larry.

Mr Pitt, who opened the facilities today, said the facelift had been made possible thanks to joint State and Commonwealth government funding of $1.53 million.

“Innisfail, and the whole of Johnstone Shire, was severely affected by Cyclone Larry and Pease Park in particular was hit hard, with numerous buildings and sheds being destroyed,” Mr Pitt said.

“Pease Park is a focal point for the shire and rebuilding these facilities has been an important part of the community’s ongoing recovery efforts.

“I am pleased to say that the new facilities are outstanding considering the condition of the original structures after the cyclone.

“The pavilion, in particular, can now be used as a cyclone shelter or evacuation centre.”

Mr Pitt said the Pease Park works included:
• the replacement and upgrade of pavilion one – $539,457
• new stables – $346,767
• new horse stalls and tie-up stalls – $330,974
• motor vehicle hall upgrade – $260,579
• grandstand upgrade - $59,911.

“The $1,537,690 allocated to this project is just part of the total of $36.5 million in natural disaster relief and recovery funding provided to Johnstone Shire after Cyclone Larry,” Mr Pitt said.

“The Queensland Government is committed to supporting our regional communities, particularly in tough times, and I’m proud that we have been able to join with the Commonwealth to deliver crucial funding for the rebuilding of Johnstone Shire.”

Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3227 8819