Maranoa MP: $1 Million for drought-support projects on the Southern Downs

July 7, 2020

Boosting community infrastructure will be a key goal on the Southern Downs, thanks in part to a $1 million investment through the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Programme Extension (DCPE), Maranoa MP David Littleproud announced today.

“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 projects set for the Southern Downs region give us more reasons to get involved and support community facilities and events.

“The goal of DCPE is to provide short-term support through the drought by boosting local employment, public facilities and bringing people together for some good times.

“While there were good falls of rain earlier in the year, it takes more than one or two wet events to get out of drought.

“One of the great things about the Drought Communities Programme is that funds are driven down into local groups who make these informed decisions.

“They are justifying projects that are worthwhile for their community.

“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 the community.”

DCPE-funded projects in the Southern Downs region include:

• Upgrades to Clyde Simmons Park at Freestone;
• Upgrades to community bore infrastructure at Jack Smith Gully Rd, Swan Creek;
• Installation of signage at town entrance points, rubbish bins, new notice board at CWA, road signage and shade structure at Leyburn bus stop;
• Installation of a swing-set and slide in Maryvale Park, and a picnic table in Millar Vale Creek Park, Maryvale;
• Entrance feature upgrades and installation of picnic tables at Rockwell Street, installation of picnic tables and disability access pathway at Boston Park, and installation of electricity connection to the Queenslander sign at Wallangarra;
• Upgrades and maintenance of the QCWA Broadwater Stanthorpe, Junabee Hall, Pratten Hall, Warwick Senior Citizens Hall, Maryvale Hall, Eukey Hall, Deuchar Massie Hall and Glen Aplin Hall;
• Installation of shade structures in Council parks in rural villages;
• Establishment of a community grants program for regional community organisations;
• Drought relief activities including supply and delivery of potable water to rural landowners.

All Maranoa council regions are eligible to apply for funding through the Federal Government’s $300 million Drought Communities Programme Extension round.

ENDS