Converted shipping containers to house extra police for Woorabinda

Shipping containers converted to accommodation will be used as short term housing for extra police sent to Woorabinda.

Police Minister Judy Spence said this temporary option was needed because of a shortage of suitable accommodation in the aboriginal community.

Ms Spence said: “Woorabinda has volunteered to ban alcohol. As a government we need to support the community with this decision and that means boosting police numbers.

“This week police numbers will increase to eight with a new sergeant and a child protection investigation unit officer due to start on Thursday.

“Another three uniformed officers will commence in the next few months.

“That means there will be 11 police in a community of around 900 people.

“There is an urgency to get extra police into Woorabinda to assist the community to go dry so we cannot wait for negotiations regarding land and native title.

“As a Government we will do what it takes so police have had to think outside the square.

“As a short term solution we are going to house police in shipping containers converted to accommodation.

“Similar accommodation is being used by police as part of Operation Themis - the Northern Territory emergency response.

“There is a company that specialises in modifying these containers into comfortable, modern bedrooms and living areas. (Some examples can be seen at the website www.royalwolf.com.au)

“Police union representatives have inspected the company’s Brisbane factory and are satisfied with what is proposed.

“Each container is 12 metres long and air-conditioned. An accommodation “kit” consists of two containers.

“One container is split into two separate bedrooms … each bedroom has its own ensuite bathroom and shower.

“The second container has a lounge area, a dining area, a kitchen and a laundry.

“The Queensland Police Service has placed an order, which includes the purchase of four shipping containers at a cost of $214,000.

“Additional outlays including transport, crane hire, site works, infrastructure upgrades and connection of services will mean the total project will cost around $500,000.

“It’s expected the containers will be delivered and installed in June.

“When more permanent housing can be arranged the containers can be transported to other locations where temporary accommodation is required,” Ms Spence said.

Ms Spence said locals will also benefit with the PCYC moving into Woorabinda to deliver programs and inspiration to the whole community.

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