Council delivers $1M sustainability and biosecurity upgrades

Published on 15 October 2026

Hinchinbrook Shire Council has completed a $1 million project that will improve energy efficiency, reduce operating costs, and enhance environmental and biosecurity outcomes across the region.

The project was funded through a $920,000 grant from the Australian Government’s Reef Trust program for Reef Guardian Councils, with Council contributing $135,000.

Across key Council facilities, new solar systems and energy-saving measures have been installed to reduce reliance on grid electricity and lower long-term energy costs.

This included a 100kW solar system at the Lannercost Street Office, along with 130kW and 110kW systems at the TYTO Precinct and Martin Street Depot.

At the Martin Street Depot, solar power has been linked to the Water Treatment Plant, maximising the benefit of renewable energy across essential services.

Mayor Ramon Jayo said the project demonstrates Council’s commitment to practical, cost-effective sustainability.

“These upgrades are about working smarter with how we use energy across Council facilities,” Mayor Jayo said.

“By harnessing solar power and improving energy efficiency, we're investing in infrastructure that can help reduce our reliance on grid electricity and improve the long-term sustainability of Council operations.

“The 100kW solar installation at the Lannercost Street Office has now been operating for around 12 months, and Council is continuing to monitor performance data to better understand the benefits being delivered.

“With the new solar systems at the Martin Street Depot and TYTO Precinct now commissioned, we expect to see further benefits as these installations begin contributing to the energy needs of those facilities.

“Over time, these projects are expected to deliver operational savings while also supporting Council's commitment to reducing emissions and operating more sustainably."

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is proud to be one of 21 Reef Guardian Councils recognised by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, working together to protect and enhance the resilience of the Great Barrier Reef through local action and environmental stewardship.

Chair of the Reef Guardian Council Executive Committee and Cassowary Coast Regional Councillor Jeff Baines said the Reef remains one of Australia's most valuable natural assets and highlighted the important role local governments play in its protection.

“The Reef is our most precious asset. Communities rely on the Reef socially, economically and culturally, and Reef Guardian Councils are taking action to protect the Reef for future generations,” Cr Baines said.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Assistant Director Strategic Engagement Rebecca Allen said Reef Guardian Councils play a significant role in protecting and building the resilience of the Great Barrier Reef.

“Managing more than 76% of the Great Barrier Reef catchment, Reef Guardian Councils contribute significantly to protecting and building the long-term resilience of the Great Barrier Reef by taking action to address key threats that originate beyond the Marine Park boundaries,” Ms Allen said.

“Reef Guardian Councils vary greatly in size and capacity, but all are undertaking activities that help protect the long-term resilience of the Great Barrier Reef, including tackling climate change, managing impacts from land-based activities, and protecting, rehabilitating and restoring habitats.”

The project also included the construction of a purpose-built washdown bay at the Martin Street Depot in Ingham.

The facility captures and contains weed seeds, organic debris and potential pathogens from vehicles and equipment, preventing them from spreading into the environment.

Wash water is treated and safely discharged into the sewer network, providing an added layer of protection for local waterways, wetlands and reef catchments.