DREDGING ONE MILE CREEK BODES WELL FOR CARDWELL

The Federal Liberal and Nationals Government has confirmed it will deliver $1.5 million to dredge One Mile Creek in Cardwell, bringing business and improving water access to the Cassowary Coast town.

Townsville-based LNP Senator for Queensland Susan McDonald said locals had been desperate for help to make the creek navigable in all tides.

“Many people – not just the residents of Port Hinchinbrook – use One Mile Creek, including the Cardwell Coast Guard,” Senator McDonald said.

“This is not just about improving a community asset. It is of paramount importance that the Coast Guard vessel can respond to calls for assistance at any time and in any tide.

“Dredging will also benefit fishers, many who travel from Townsville and Cairns to chase barramundi and mudcrabs in the Hinchinbrook Channel.

“This investment will have flow-on benefits to Cardwell businesses supplying fuel, food, accommodation and fishing supplies.
“Sightseers will also have another access point to Hinchinbrook Island for hiking, swimming and camping.”

The provision of $1.5 million honours a federal election commitment made this year by LNP candidate for Kennedy, Frank Beveridge.

The Cassowary Coast Regional Council will be the proponent for the project.

The Queensland Liberal National Party’s Shadow Minister for Northern Queensland, Dale Last, said the Queensland LNP and the Federal Government cared about people in the North.

“I welcome the funding from the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government and thank them for backing the Cardwell community,” Mr Last said.

“When I met with stakeholders they expressed their frustration with the ongoing delays and lack of action and I was only too pleased to work with the Federal Government to secure the funding that will allow this project to go ahead.

“This project will increase safety for boaties by providing all-tide access for the Cardwell Coast Guard and it will also open up much needed tourism opportunities for Cardwell.”

Senator McDonald said the funding was secured after Mr Last advised the Federal Government to act quickly on the election commitment.

“This announcement really shows what can be achieved by having a State Member from the LNP with a direct line to the Federal Government,” she said.

“Scott Morrison is the most regions-focused Prime Minister we’ve ever had, so having State MPs in North Queensland from the LNP after next year’s state election will be a positive.”

The Federal Liberal and Nationals Government is fully funding the $1.5 million.

Ends.

Media Contact:
Senator McDonald – Julian Tomlinson 0421 059 187
Mr Last – David Cooper 0427 834 844