Balonne Shire will utilise $1 million, thanks to the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Programme (DCP), to bring fresh, modern touches to several community facilities, Maranoa MP David Littleproud said.
“This funding is part of the Federal Government’s $8 billion drought response, to upgrade local infrastructure and give people more reason to get involved around the community,” Mr Littleproud said.
“The goal of DCP is to provide short-term support through the drought by boosting local employment, improving public facilities and bringing people together for some good times.
“While there has been general rain in the South-West, many missed out and it takes more than one or two wet events to get out of drought.
“One of the great things about DCP is that funds are driven down into local groups who have a say in which local is contracted to make the upgrades.
“When community groups make these informed decisions, they are justifying projects that are worthwhile.
“Drought certainly impacts on how we manage our businesses and personal lives, but it does not have to change how we get involved and support local groups and us community facilities.”
DCP-funded projects in the Balonne Shire include upgrades to the:
- St George water pump station;
- Dirranbandi Recreation Ground;
- Thallon Park playground;
- Hebel Community Hall;
- Bollon Walter Austin Park;
- Bollon Aerodrome fencing;
- St George Showgrounds;
- Mungindi River Park;
- St George Grey Street;
- St George River foreshore;
- Dirranbandi Rail and River Precinct.
All Maranoa council regions are eligible to apply for funding through the Federal Government’s $300 million Drought Communities Programme Extension round.
ENDS
