Div 1: Community and wildlife infrastructure score in record budget
Published 18 June 2021
There’s something for everyone in Division 1 with Moreton Bay Regional Council today handing down a record $245 million 2021-22 Budget that will benefit pensioners, young people, fitness fanatics and even turtles.
Councillor Brooke Savige said it was thanks to residents that grassroots initiatives had got the green light, with strategic spending to address requests from almost every local demographic.
“The important thing for me in this Budget is that we invest more in connecting our community and enhancing our liveability, because I know there’s concerns about our increasing population,” she said.
“I’m really excited to announce that we will start $850,000 beautification works on Brennan Park to enhance that remarkable view along the Bongaree foreshore and across Pumicestone Passage to Brisbane City.
“This is without question one of the most spectacular parks in South East Queensland and I want to bring it up to speed as a great destination for both locals and tourists to enjoy.
“These works will continue into late 2022, so please be patient with us because the results will absolutely be worth it.
“I’m proud to say we’ll be fixing the ‘missing links’ in our local pavement network with new footpaths along sections of Bribie Island Road in Ningi, as well as Bestmann Road East in Sandstone Point and other areas where you’ve told us we need to improve safety and connectivity for pedestrians, thanks to $500,000 from the Federal Government.
“I want to thank BIEPA for their work to reduce light pollution that disorientates turtles during nesting season and I’m thrilled to announce we’ll invest $50,000 to retrofit lights with wildlife sensitive lighting in Woorim.
“I’m proud to say the part pension rebate which I advocated for and saw introduced last year during COVID-19, will be extended for another year to support those in need.
“This means a large number of people in Division 1 will be able to benefit from up to $250 worth of rates concession over the financial year - but we haven’t forgotten about young people either.
“Council has dedicated $30,000 to deliver a suite of youth programs and activities to provide young people with more things to do on the Island.
“This will be developed in conjunction with schools and community groups to ensure to covers a diverse range of activities.
“It is important to me that our community have a strong say in where their rates are spent.
“So I’ve heard clearly local calls for more park fitness equipment around Bribie Island to stay fit and active, and I’m proud to say that will be delivered.
“This is something we started last year and now we will be building those as well as two ping pong tables across various local parks.
“This budget is about protecting and improving everything locals love about our lifestyle, as our region faces serious population growth.”
Budget 2021-22 delivers a record $245 million capital works program and a renewed focus on community engagement, to ensure every action of Council aligns with the values of our local community.
Budget Highlights for Division 1:
- $940,000 for 600 metres of road rehabilitation along Endeavour Drive, Banksia Beach
- $900,000 to complete 950 metres of missing link pathway along Bribie Island Road, Ningi between Bestmann Road and Aylward Road
- $450,000 to complete 650 metres of missing link pathway along Elkhorn Avenue, Bellara between Eucalypt Street and Verdoni Street
- $315,000 for refurbishment of the Woorim Foreshore surf beach amenities
- $300,000 to upgrade fire services, including hydrant booster, fire water pumphouse and more within the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre
- $260,000 to replace packaged units at the Bribie Island Rec Hall
- $250,000 to replace and upgrade turf at the Bribie Soccer Complex on First Avenue, Bongaree
- $250,000 to complete 890 metres of missing link pathway along Jasmin Drive, Bongaree between Goodwin Drive and 86 Protea Drive
- $214,000 for the removal and replacement of 375 metres of footpath along Bishop Road, Beachmere between 38 Bishop Road and Elizabeth Street