Construction on a $5.5 million social housing project in Cannonvale began in March and by this time next year 12 new social housing apartments will be complete and ready to house those in need in our community.

The complex consists of two, two-storey buildings, delivering 10 one-bedroom and two two-bedroom units.

Fergus Builders are currently working on the site, which is located at 185 Shute Harbour Road Cannonvale, next to the Cannonvale Swim Centre.

Six of the dwellings are accessible with four of the units featuring level thresholds, wider doorways and hallways, and provision for grab rails, making them suitable for people with varying levels of mobility.

Two of the units include additional features and clearance spaces, making them particularly suitable for people who mobilise in wheelchairs.

There are currently 183 applications on the social housing register for the Whitsunday Local Government Area and the Department of Housing says this is just one of several ways it is helping with the current housing crisis.

Over the past year Mackay Housing Service Centre, which also covers the Whitsunday region, has provided 367 bond loans and 147 rental grants to help people secure a rental home in the private rental market.

Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said with housing pressures being felt right across the country, councils, governments, industry, and organisations need to work together.

“While we’re investing more than ever in new social and affordable homes, we’re also providing more immediate supports like emergency accommodation, bond loans and rental grants, as well as looking at other opportunities that might exist,” she said.

“We’ve delivered on average more than 10 homes a week since coming to government and I’m keen to see more projects like this delivered as soon as possible.”

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By Rachael Smith

At the centre of the local housing crisis there is a lack of affordable homes available for medium to low-income earners to purchase and rent.

The population of the Greater Airlie Beach Area has increased dramatically over the past few years, but the construction of new homes has not kept pace with this population growth.

As a result, there is huge, untapped demand for affordable homes in the region.

Local Cannonvale development, The Grove, has started to meet this demand with eight new townhouses expected to settle in the next four weeks.

The continuation of stage four of the development has already commenced with a further 16 houses underway and 103 additional townhouses already been approved for the site.

"The rental crisis is an issue that plagues our region daily, and we firmly believe that the solution lies in creating more rental properties," stated Steve Marks, Principal, Explore Property Whitsundays.

"With the capacity to introduce over 100 brand new, affordable townhouses to the market, we aim to tackle this problem head-on. However, to achieve this, we need to shift our focus to local investment, reducing reliance on southern investors."

Mr Marks says he is offering a savvy and safe investment opportunity for homeowners in the area to use the equity in their property to purchase a townhouse at The Grove.

Not only will this return a good rental yield and virtually no outlay, but it will also provide an affordable rental for someone in need in the community.

“Property owners in the Whitsundays have experienced remarkable price growth in recent years, with Cannonvale alone witnessing a median sale price increase of 30% since 2021 representing an average rise of over $100,000 in property value,” he said.

“This untapped equity presents a valuable opportunity to invest in the local region, providing homes for fellow locals and serving as an excellent investment opportunity.

“We are encouraging local property owners to seize this unique opportunity to contribute to the region's growth and address the pressing need for affordable housing.

“By harnessing local investment, the development aims to create a sustainable solution that benefits the entire community.”

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Steve Marks, Principal, Explore Property Whitsundays, standing outside The Grove where townhouses to meet the affordable housing shortage are being built. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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As the 2023 Financial year races to a close, businesses need to act now to prepare for the implementation of increased award rates on 1st July. The recent decision made by the Fair Work Commission (FWC) regarding the annual wage review will significantly impact many businesses in the region with a substantial increase of 5.75% to Modern Award minimum wages for all classification levels. These new rates will come into effect from the first full pay period commencing on or after 1st July 2023.

The FWC's decision was influenced by various economic and social factors, including the rising cost of living, a strong labour market, high inflationary pressures and projected economic slowdown for the 2023-24 financial year. Taking proactive measures now is essential to navigate the upcoming changes and maintain compliance with the updated regulations. For more information, go to www.fairwork.go.au/newsroom

The Whitsunday business community will soon be invited to participate in the Greater Whitsundays Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) Business Community Attitudes Survey. This survey aims to understand the impact of immigration on your workforce, and more importantly, your interest in a DAMA for our region. A DAMA represents a significant opportunity for the Greater Whitsundays region. It is a formal multi-year agreement between the Australian Government and a regional authority that provides access to a larger pool of overseas workers than the standard skilled migration program. By participating in this survey, you will actively contribute to shaping the future of workforce development in our region.  

Our next meeting and business networking event will be held 7:00am-8:30am Thursday 13 July in Proserpine. Join us to have your say on priorities for the region and help build on the economic Vision for the Whitsundays, connect with like-minded businesses, and hear more about our new strategy, advocacy, and membership services.  Speaking of membership, don't forget to take advantage of our free end of financial year membership offer - valid to 30 June 2023. Jump onto our website and join up.

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Just under a year ago, Chris Webby made the decision to better his health and joined F45 Airlie Beach.

He is now the first member to hit 250 visits.

Since his first class, where he had to sit out early, Chris has improved not only in endurance but also in his overall strength and physique, with the added benefit of losing 20 kilograms.

“The first three to four months was a struggle,” Chris said.

“It was definitely intense going from doing nothing to working out almost every day.”

Since he joined in August last year, Chris has committed to going six days a week, every day except Sunday, when the gym is closed, and when he holidays away.

“Chris has always been dedicated,” said Studio Manager Monique Pattison.

“I feel like I started yesterday!” said Chris.

“The team at F45 give you everything, unlike a regular gym, where they’ll tell you something and you have to do it all by yourself.”

The team continue to push Chris.

“They’re friendly, non-judgemental, and encouraging and they know when to push you,” he explains.

“I’ll do a push up now and they’ll put a 15-kilogram plate on my back!”

“It feels really great,” Monique said, “To know that someone is trusting us with their fitness journey.

“And to come 250 times, it shows a level of commitment, and that what we’re doing is helping people.

“Chris has built muscle and strength, and has had aesthetic changes, and he always walks in here with a smile and welcomes everyone. He has really embraced the F45 community.”

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Chris Webby has worked out with F45 Airlie Beach 250 times and is the first member to hit that milestone. Photo supplied

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Cold mornings and dark evenings can often create the perfect excuse to pull the doona up over your head or stay curled up on your sofa. While it’s nice to snuggle in the warmth, the winter weather should not deter you from maintaining your fitness goals.

Here are a few tips for staying active this winter:

• While the summer can often be too hot for long walks, the cool winter days and stunning sunsets make every walk enjoyable. Put your runners on and head outside, it won’t take you long to warm up and you’ll be glad you made the effort.

• Be accountable with a group fitness workout – sign-up to a gym that has a community vibe, a group of people who will notice if you are missing and motivate you to turn up each day. F45 is a local fitness club that offers this.

• Exercise during your lunch break – if cold mornings and evenings are sabotaging your routine, skip out of work on your lunch break and head to the gym or go for a long walk.

• Plan for success – avoid making excuses on your drive home by putting your exercise clothes on before you leave work. If you exercise in the morning – why not wear your fitness gear to bed?!

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Over 150,000 Australians are diagnosed with skin cancer each year and, on average 1,700 people pass away from the disease.

In Queensland we can be more susceptible to skin cancer due to high levels of sun exposure, so it is vital to get regular skin cancer check-ups.

Next week the Skin Cancer Doctor will be back in town and is available for checks and treatments.

Dr Amid Gayed will be hosting a pop-up clinic at the Whitsunday PCYC on Tuesday 13 and Wednesday 14 of June.

You can book an appointment directly and do not need a referral.

The cost is $140 and you’ll receive a $39.75 Medicare rebate.

Simply follow this link to make an appointment: bit.ly/3qkHvMu

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As the 2023 crushing season gets underway, locomotives will become a prevalent sight in the district. But the technologically sophisticated machines of today are a far cry from the locos that chugged along the tracks in days gone by.

Before big expansions in the sugar industry necessitated inevitable changes, steam locomotives hauled the cane from farm to mill. The Proserpine Sugar Mill owned nine steam locomotives. Until the early 50s, the locos had coal (mostly from Collinsville) and wood fired steam engines and pulled a tender loaded with the fuel and water supplies essential for operations. These engines weighed up to 18 tons and could pull 152 full trucks of cane.

Most of the locos were affectionately given names apart from Numbers 1 and 8.

Number 1, built in South Australia in 1939, was the largest engine and it handled the big hauls from Up River, Lethebrook and Kelsey Creek.

One of the most famous was Number 2 – Digger. Built in Leeds, England in 1916, this locomotive was one of 155 ordered by the war department to serve in France in World War 1. After the war, it was taken back to Leeds, slightly modified, and in 1924 was one of several sold to Australia for use in the Queensland Sugar Industry. Despite some modifications throughout its life, it remained essentially a Hunslet War Department design – hence adding to its historic significance.

Number 3 – Fritz also served in France during the war. Numbers 2 and 3 had smaller engines and handled runs to Cannon Valley, Strathdickie and Waterson.

Number 4 – German Annie was built in Germany in 1908 and was used on Conway and Preston runs. It had a distinctive shrill whistle making it easily identifiable from a distance or at night.

Number 5 - Bonnie Jean, an 1899 Krauss, was named after a local lady, Jeannie Voss. It was the first one to service the Conway line, however, having a very small engine, it was seldom fired up and was used for emergency work around the mill yard.

Number 6 – Tilly, the mill’s original locomotive, was named after another Proserpine lady, Mrs Matilda Stoneham. Despite its small engine, it did mighty work and was mainly used on the Lethebrook line. On a clear night with a big load, most of the town would hear her coming, puffing like billyho from Goorganga Plains through Glen Isla to the mill. She whistled at every crossing and must have been cursed by many as she hit town areas and passed by the hospital - but locals did consider her whistle cheerful.  

Number 7 – There were 2 Number 7s.  The first, Mae West, built in England in 1915, was distinctive in that it had water tanks positioned on each side of the boiler, like 2 big floaties. The second, was a new Perry built in 1948.

Number 8 completed the steam fleet. Bought in 1953, it was a Bundaberg Fowler steam loco fitted with a distinct spark arrestor on its smoke stack. Used until the early 1970s, it had historical significance, being the last of its type in the world.

Gone now are the days of the steam locomotive. In 1954, the first diesel engines graced the tramlines. All engines were eventually changed to diesel burners in the early 50s and by 1965, the mill had 8 diesels.

Gone too are the days when communications were especially difficult - when, in order to establish the position of a loco that was running late, it involved ringing telephones along the route to establish where it had passed and where it was yet to reach. The exchange and farm ladies were always helpful and generally had a rough idea of where the loco would be. When a derailment occurred, a common occurrence, drivers blew the whistle 3 times. If a navvy gang was within earshot, they would come to assist, otherwise, the fireman could have a long walk to the nearest telephone for help.

And gone too are the days of all male crews steaming along the line …

Story and photos courtesy of the Proserpine Historical Museum and Proserpine Sugar Mill.

Number 5 – The Bonnie Jean L-R Martin Braby, Joey James, Roy Hansen, Tom Treacy  

Lady Drivers I McCormack - Mrs Frazer at the last lady driving contest c1930

Vicki Burnett - first lady crew person on the locos -1989

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By Bronte Hodge

When Helen Maynard-Turner, Coordinator for Meals on Wheels Proserpine, set out to plan the Meals on Wheels Day celebrations, she didn’t think that all three local members of government would raise up their hand on the same day to take part in the cause.

Meals on Wheels Day is always held on the last Wednesday of August however, a special honorary day was planned to align with the schedules of the three special guests.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP and Mayor for the Whitsundays, Julie Hall, all came along to lend a hand and celebrate Meals on Wheels.

Mayor Hall arrived first and was tasked with the Beach Run, encompassing the clients who live in Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, and Jubilee Pocket.

Mr Willcox and Ms Camm were on the local run, accompanied by an existing volunteer couple who showed them the ropes.

“It was incredible to join the team for a meal run and get a look behind the scenes of this operation,” said Mr Willcox.

“Seeing first-hand the dedication these volunteers have to our region; supporting residents in need right around the Whitsundays.”

Mrs Camm said the Meals on Wheels service is invaluable to our community as it supports so many.

“It doesn’t take a lot of time and has great positive impacts for the people you are delivering to and as a volunteer,” she said.

“I came away with a gratitude for the wonderful individuals I met. Get involved!”

Mayor Hall said Meals on Wheels has provided a vital lifeline for many individuals in our community, particularly our elderly and vulnerable residents.

“Their service extends far beyond the physical act of delivering meals; it brings comfort and a much-needed human connection to those who may otherwise feel isolated or alone,” she said.

“The Proserpine Meals on Wheels service embodies the true spirit of community, and the volunteers and staff are an inspiration to us all.”

Meals on Wheels Proserpine has been servicing locals for over 65 years, and can assist anyone needing meals, including elderly, disable, and impaired.

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Mayor Julie Hall joins Meals on Wheels Proserpine and delivers meals. Photo supplied.

Andrew Willcox MP, and Amanda Camm MP, with Helen Maynard-Turner and volunteers with Meals on Wheels Proserpine. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

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Born and bred local, Proserpine State High School student Reid Ogden did not expect to be welcomed back to the school year with an invitation to be a part of the Ministerial Student Advisory Council.

Reid is one of 16 students from across Queensland to represent youth opinions on matters that directly influence and impact on them with their school environment.

Established in 2018 by Minister for Education, the Honourable Grace Grace MP, the council gives Queensland students the opportunity and space to voice concerns, feedback, and advice on a range of educational matters.

With two meetings every year, the council discuss important matters, which Grace MP takes on board when creating changes in the education sector.

While not being able to discuss the agenda of his first meeting, Reid mentioned that previously the council discussed the e-cigarette and vape crisis occurring in schools, which helped inform the ban that was later put in place.

“I feel pretty privileged to be picked from this school and that I get to go down there and voice my opinion to someone of power,” Reid said.

“Voice my opinion formally and properly so they take it in and take it on board, yeah I feel very grateful that I get the opportunity to do that.”

Reid was put forward to the council by his school Proserpine State High School, based on his history of school commitment and outstanding effort.

Reid had been elected as a Junior School Executive leader in Year 9 and is currently in the Senior Leadership Team.

In 2022, when Reid was in Year 10, he was awarded the St Vincent de Paul Scholarship, for dedication to upholding school values, work ethic and leadership in the school community.

Don McDermid, Principal of Proserpine State High School, said “we have great confidence in Reid’s ability to be a valuable member of the Ministerial Student Advisory Council.”

Students come from all across Queensland, from Cairns, Longreach, and Tully, as well as Brisbane and Redcliff, as well as a range of year groups, with one student only being in Year 7.

Reid will remain in the council until he graduates at the end of 2024.

Until then, he continues to influence within his school, eyeing to become School Captain next year, as well as play Volleyball and AFL, as well as be a part of his House Committee.

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Reid Ogden standing outside the William Street Queensland Government Building

Year 11 student Reid Ogden (back row, third from left) joins 15 other students to inform Queensland Government on youth and student opinion. Photo supplied

View the photo gallery here

Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Mackay And Whitsunday Life Scoop State Awards

By Amanda Wright

The advertisement which launched a regional newspaper into the international spotlight has once again been acknowledged as an industry game-changer for its ability to spark conversation towards the enduring power of print media.

The ‘Jenny and Steve’ advertisement for Best Marketing Campaign was one of four awards scooped up by this very publication, Mackay and Whitsunday Life, at the 2023 Queensland Country Press Association (QCPA) awards and conference in Brisbane last week.

Showcasing its talent across all forms of print media, Mackay and Whitsunday Life was recognised for unique marketing capabilities, an excellence in delivering newspaper features, talent in advertisement design and its ability to keep the region informed and engaged with quality editorial content.

Owner and Publisher, Rebecca Douthwaite, said it was humbling to be recognised as a leading regional newspaper in what is only the second year of being in print for Mackay and Whitsunday Life.

“Delivering news without barriers so everyone in the community can stay informed has been at the heart of our publication since its inception,” Mrs Douthwaite said.

“We said we’d be ‘free and always will be’ and we’ve honoured that promise.

“It was an incredible feeling to be recognised for what we have achieved this past year, which is a testament to our team who strive daily to deliver news that people genuinely want to read.”

BREAKING BOUNDARIES
Mackay and Whitsunday Life Rewrite The Newspaper Narrative

Mackay and Whitsunday Life took home four state awards last week, recognised at the annual Queensland Country Press Association (QCPA) awards and conference held in Brisbane.

A star-studded affair, the conference was opened by Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk who emphasised the importance of regional newspapers in keeping a wider audience informed. Olympic swimmer Julie McDonald OAM delivered an inspirational speech on what it takes to reach the top, and attendees were left in stitches with the hilarious comedian, Dave O’Neil, as the MC of the awards dinner.

Thinking outside of the box and taking risks is the key to success of any advertising campaign. Mackay and Whitsunday Life was awarded gold in the Best Marketing Campaign for printing the infamous ‘Jenny and Steve’ advertisement. Award judges said it set a new benchmark for the way regional and community newspapers should market themselves.

“Mackay Life was a great example of how this risk taking can have huge rewards and help a campaign exceed even the highest expectations,” the judges’ comments read.

“A standout campaign that combines great, innovative creative with simple execution. A real game changer.”

Whitsunday Life scooped silver for the ‘Best Newspaper Feature’ with its Great Barrier Reef Festival advertising extravaganza, with judges saying it was “eye catching and fun”.

“The front cover of this feature really caught my eye,” the judge said.

“Stories were very informative. Highlighting each event gave me a great insight into the festival. A lovely feature supported by nicely designed advertising.”

Mackay Life was recognised for editorial excellence with a bronze award for its Homelessness feature, saying the campaign had a clear aim, to connect homeless people to services that can support them.

“It comprised a good mix of stories, including those that presented personal insights that humanised the issue,” the judging comments read.

Lastly, the design team was recognised with a bronze for the Best Locally Produced Advertisement, for a Mother’s Day ad designed for Karen Hill Floral Design.

The QCPA conference and awards night broke several records including receiving the most nominations for awards ever.  Delegates travelled from across regional Queensland and from all eastern states to attend, including Mareeba in far north Queensland, Dubbo and Narrabri in central NSW, Gippsland in Victoria and the Barossa and Clare Valleys of South Australia.

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Mackay and Whitsunday Life won four awards at the Queensland Country Press Association (QCPA) awards and conference, including a gold award for best marketing campaign. L-R: Journalist, Sam Gillespie, Mackay Editor, Amanda Wright, Owner and Publisher, Rebecca Douthwaite, Advertising Sales Manager, Mike McCann, Whitsunday Editor, Rachael Smith, Owner, Paul Douthwaite. Photo credit: Demie Wigham

Comedian Dave O’Neil was the MC for the Queensland Country Press Association (QCPA) awards and conference

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As National Reconciliation Week wraps up on Saturday, June 3, local organisations Murri Watch, Murri Court and Binga Birri invited residents of Mackay to gather and learn about shared histories and cultures as society works towards achieving reconciliation in Australia, with a Reconciliation Bridge Walk taking place on Monday.

The National Reconciliation Week 2023 theme is “Be a voice for generations”, encouraging all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways in our everyday lives.

Murri Watch Senior Officer Jenny Timor, who has a Torres Strait Island and South Sea Island background, said the National Reconciliation Week creates further awareness of local Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and South Sea Islander culture.

“It’s an opportunity for all of us of all backgrounds to focus on who the Indigenous people are, to ask questions, to begin conversations, to have events in local schools and community,” she said.

“It’s all about showcasing Aboriginal and Islander culture and all the positives.”

A large group walked across the Forgan Bridge with signs, flags and banners, including schools, local organisations, members of parliament and police.

“We have a lot of community groups and people from the community in general who, by showing up today, are in support and appreciation of reconciliation and what it means to reconcile with each other, to demonstrate that we are equal in our differences, which is probably the crux of reconciliation,” Ms Timor said.

“People are continually moving forward in their own small ways and every year more people are beginning to become confident to approach and ask questions.”

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A Reconciliation Bridge Walk was held in Mackay on Monday to mark National Reconciliation Week. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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A Mackay resident has put the call out to the community after her dad misplaced his wedding ring on Cockermouth Island.

Emmy Lou was on the Wildcat Mackay tour with her parents last Friday, saying “it was an amazing tour”, but shared on the Mackay Noticeboard Facebook group that her dad lost his gold wedding band while on the tour.

“My parents have been married for 48 years and my dad has never taken his wedding ring off once,” she wrote.

“They are the most sincere, committed and loving couple ever.

“I’ve never seen my dad so upset.

“When you marry your best friend it symbolises love, commitment and affection, so when you lose your wedding ring the feelings of sadness and guilt are apparent.”

After combing through videos and photos taken on the day, Ms Lou concluded that the wedding ring was lost while stand-up paddleboarding on the island.

She’s put the call out to the community to keep an eye out when visiting the island.

“I know this is a long shot, but I have read stories where people have found their wedding rings after losing them in the ocean,” she wrote.

“If anyone happens to go to Cockermouth Island on a tour/privately and is fortunate enough to find this I’ll be ever so grateful.

“If anyone out there does this stuff as a professional job with a metal detector, I would love to chat to you.”

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Cockermouth Island

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It was a delightful coincidence to jump right back into the swing of things at work just as we were gearing up for the Queensland Country Press Association (QCPA) awards and conference in the vibrant city of Brisbane.

Sure, it came with its fair share of challenges, like finding discreet spots every few hours to pump breast milk (shout-out to all the multitasking supermums out there!).

The highlight of it all? Reconnecting with my amazing colleagues and sharing countless laughs that brought back the feeling of camaraderie. And let's not forget the icing on the cake – our publication scooping up not one, not two, but four prestigious awards! Talk about feeling proud as punch!

But that's not all we gained from the conference. We had the privilege of listening to Queensland Premier, Annastasia Palaszczuk, who reminded us just how important regional newspapers are to our beloved communities. She assured us that the government is committed to keeping those ink-stained pages alive and kicking, ensuring that even the most vulnerable among us have access to vital news. Read more about this on page 7.

Industry expert speakers reignited our passion for doing what we do. They preached the gospel of positive press, urging us to steer clear of clickbait and exaggerated headlines aimed at nothing more than grabbing eyeballs. It was heartwarming to witness a shift in the industry, with more publications focusing on giving readers what they truly desire, instead of playing tricks on them.

It feels fantastic to be a part of an industry that values authenticity and understands the pulse of its audience.

As we embark on this new chapter, we promise to keep the creative juices flowing, delivering news that engages, entertains, and enlightens. We're stoked to have you all by our side as we navigate the ever-evolving world of media, one thrilling story at a time. Stay tuned, folks!

Amanda

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Dawson Councils are set to lose government support, after the Federal Government slashed funding for local councils in the May Budget, says Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox.

Mr Willcox is concerned local councils will be unable to provide the facilities and programs their communities need, and ratepayers will be forced to foot the bill on large-scale community projects, as he says support from the Federal Government wanes.

“There are 537 Local Councils across Australia who are set to lose out from Labor axing support in the May Budget.” Mr. Willcox said.

“A budget is all about priorities, and it’s concerning that local councils aren’t near the top of Labor’s list.

“I understand there’s a long-term goal for local councils to achieve 1 per cent of tax revenue through Financial Assistance Grants, and this is something I am fully supportive of.  Yet in the May Budget, the funding was reduced to 0.5 per cent, which is half of what’s needed.”

“Cost of living is biting at the heels of Australian families, and this move is set to force ratepayers to foot the bill of more community projects. This could also mean councils may have to increase rates to help pay for those projects.”

Mr Willcox is also disappointed to see future phases of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LCRIP) be scrapped.

“The LCRIP was the previous Coalition Government’s way of assisting Councils to work directly for their constituencies,” Mr. Willcox said.

“When I was Mayor, the Coalition provided us with $6,437,903 over the previous four phases of the program. This gave us the support council needed to develop plans and deliver projects for the Whitsunday community, when and where it was needed most.

“This was the same right around Dawson, with the Townsville City Council receiving $16,824,146, the Mackay Regional Council receiving $13,328,688, and the Burdekin Shire Council receiving $3,698,445 over the previous four phases.

“This funding was vital for Dawson residents. Bureaucracy always slows down progress, and the LCRI program made sure that project delivery was streamlined and efficient.

“I’m urging Labor to get out of the road and let our local councils work for their people.”

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