Maryborough CBD to be more flood resilient

Flood defences in the Maryborough CBD will be bolstered through the Newman Government’s record investment in flood and disaster mitigation projects to protect Queensland communities.

Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience Minister David Crisafulli said $6 million would be spent on a 1.8 metre portable flood barrier, permanent pump station and upgrades to Adelaide Street.

“Protecting the CBD is a priority and mitigation projects like this will keep businesses open and keep the local economy moving when the flood waters rise,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“This government has a plan to create jobs in the Wide Bay-Burnett and building critical infrastructure like this will make a huge difference to the region.

“Adelaide Street will be raised by 300mm and upgrades to storm water drainage will be made to improve flood resilience to a gauge level of 11.4 metres”.

The Maryborough CBD works are part of a major state-wide investment in projects such as levees, temporary flood barriers, road-raising, major drainage and stormwater upgrades, improvements to evacuation routes and the installation of rainfall and river height warning systems.

“Our strong plan to protect Queensland communities means we are working with local councils to literally move heaven and earth to protect and prepare homes and livelihoods,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“Queenslanders have been pushed to the brink in the past few years and we are doing everything we can to not only protect them but make them stronger.

“The works will also provide a much-needed financial boost to communities through jobs and lower insurance premiums.

“Disasters can strike at any time but the Newman Government’s strong plan to protect communities for the long term will ensure a brighter future for all Queenslanders.”

[ENDS] 18 June 2014

Media Contact: Andrew Longmire 0418 216 627