Burdekin benefits from Blueprint for the Bush funding

Communities in the Burdekin region will continue to grow stronger thanks to a $20,000 grant issued as part of the latest round of Blueprint for the Bush funding, Local Government Minister Warren Pitt said today.

Mr Pitt joined Premier Anna Bligh to present a $20,000 cheque to Burdekin Shire Council today to develop the Burdekin Economic Development Strategic Plan.

The presentation was made as part of the Bligh Government’s Community Cabinet meeting in Townsville.

“The Burdekin Economic Development Strategic Plan will outline a 10-year economic development vision for the Burdekin district and will empower the community to take charge of its economic future,” Mr Pitt said.

“Specifically, the plan will identify strategies to achieve growth and new investment in the region, particularly in the agricultural, small business, engineering, manufacturing, and tourism sectors.”

Mr Pitt said the grant had been secured through the Queensland Government’s Blueprint for the Bush – Our Place Our Future initiative, which provides rural and remote communities with the resources to strengthen their capacity to shape their future.

“The funding will be used as a contribution toward the appointment of a consultant who will work with a steering committee of 20 community representatives and a broader group of stakeholders to develop the plan.”

Mr Pitt said the government was strongly committed to building strong and sustainable communities across rural and remote Queensland.

"One of the major goals of the Blueprint for the Bush is for communities to be viable and strong so it is important that they have access to funding initiatives such as these,” he said.

"Our ongoing investment through the program helps to deliver practical measures to address rural community development issues, assist effective community engagement and help implement existing community plans."

Today’s presentation was originally scheduled to take place in Ayr but was moved to Townsville because of flooding associated with ex-Cyclone Ellie.

Media contact: Minister Pitt’s office 3227 8819