Works for Queensland 2024-2027

COUNCIL REFINES $3.23 MILLION WORKS FOR QUEENSLAND PROGRAM

Soaring construction and material costs have forced a rethink of Hinchinbrook Shire Council's Works for Queensland program, with several projects reshaped to ensure the full $3.23 million funding allocation can still be delivered to the community.

The revised program, endorsed at Council's August General Meeting, includes a pump track, major upgrades at Forrest Beach and planning work for future infrastructure projects, while some previously proposed projects have been scaled back or moved into the design phase.

Mayor Ramon Jayo said the review was about making practical decisions that would maximise the value of the Queensland Government funding while continuing to deliver projects the community wants to see.

"Construction costs, material prices and project delivery costs have all increased significantly since these projects were originally developed," Mayor Jayo said.

"Rather than pushing ahead with projects that may not be achievable within budget, Council has taken a sensible approach to make sure we continue delivering outcomes for the community while also planning for future opportunities."

The updated program includes more than $1.25 million for upgrades at Vince Corbett Park in Forrest Beach, $606,587 for a pump track, improvements to the Ingham Showground car park, enhanced parking at Merv Wacker Park, half basketball courts in Ingham and Trebonne, upgrades at Taylors Beach and planning and delivery of trunk infrastructure for existing and future growth in Toobanna and in the vicinity of Sir Arthur Fadden Parade.

As part of the review, the proposed JL Kelly Theatre Foyer Upgrade was removed from the program, while the Taylors Beach Seawalk was reduced to design and concept planning stages.

Mayor Jayo said those projects remained firmly on Council's radar.

"This isn't about shelving projects. It's about getting them shovel-ready," he said.

"By progressing the design and planning work now, Council will be in a much stronger position to pursue future grant funding opportunities when they become available."

Taylors Beach Seawalk Stage 1 has been revised to focus on design and planning to ensure the project can meet current State Government environmental requirements.

While previous design concepts could not be progressed under the applicable environmental controls, Council will use the funding allocation to develop a compliant design and secure the necessary approvals.

Mayor Jayo said progressing the design work now would put Council in a strong position to move the project forward when future funding opportunities become available.

"This approach allows us to continue advancing the project while working through the environmental requirements needed for a development of this nature," Mayor Jayo said.

"Once a design has received the necessary environmental approvals, Council will be in a much better position to seek funding and progress construction in the future.”

The revised Works for Queensland program includes:

  • Vince Corbett Park Infrastructure Upgrade, Forrest Beach
  • Pump Track at Merv Wacker Park
  • Ingham Showground car park improvements
  • Merv Wacker Park car parking improvements
  • Half basketball courts in Ingham and Trebonne
  • Taylors Beach Playground shade covering and site improvements
  • Taylors Beach Seawalk Stage 1 design
  • Borello Park concept design
  • Riverview Park enhancements
  • Sewerage expansion planning for Toobanna and Sir Arthur Fadden Parade.

Mayor Jayo said the mix of recreation, infrastructure and future planning projects would provide benefits both now and into the future.

"These projects are about improving liveability, supporting families, creating new recreational opportunities and making sure we're planning ahead for growth," he said.

"Works for Queensland continues to be a valuable program for regional communities like ours, allowing Council to deliver projects that may otherwise take many years to fund through normal budget processes."

Council will now work with the Queensland Government to finalise the amended Works for Queensland program and continue progressing delivery of the approved projects.

The projects are expected to be delivered by 30 June 2027.

Program Funding and Delivery

The Works for Queensland Program is proudly funded by the Queensland Government in partnership with Hinchinbrook Shire Council.

The final suite of projects reflects a recently approved program variation, enabling Council to align funding with current community priorities and project readiness.

Project delivery will be scheduled based on contractor availability, materials, and resourcing, with updates to be provided as works progress.

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