WHILE the Burdekin Shire Council is budgeting for a “modest” four per cent rate rise and $38.3 million “to improve roads and drainage, water and wastewater networks and other infrastructure improvements”, there seems to be little in the way of major projects planned for the south side of the Burdekin River for the rate dollars that will be paid by residents of the area.
However, the council’s media release does not detail any major works at all on the south side of the Burdekin River, apart from projects such as a “fire hydrant replacement and renewal program” and “water supply disinfection dosing equipment upgrades” which could include work in all parts of the shire.
The detailed projects include a considerable amount of work costing millions of dollars on the Ayr Industrial Estate, but no mention of anything on a possible industrial estate in Home Hill?
However, included as “budget highlights” were $295,000 for Home Hill Pool upgrades and $105,000 for Home Hill Comfort Stop Refurbishment.
Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said the Budget funded a range of projects aimed to improve liveability and community well-being, including $70,000 to complete a detailed design for a youth zone in Anzac Park (in Ayr), as foreshadowed in the Anzac Park Masterplan, which aims to strengthen connectivity between the Burdekin Aquatic Centre and other recreational elements in the park.”
Parks and recreation facilities throughout the Shire are due to receive an upgrade with the following initiatives funded in Home Hill— $295,000 to refurbish ablutions, shade sail and fencing replacement at the Home Hill Swimming Pool and $60,000 for footpath lighting in the Home Hill Memorial Park.
There were also projects in Ayr and Giru with shade sail replacements.
The Burdekin Memorial Hall will also receive $38,500 to replace chairs and tables, improve access and enhance the fire safety.
Cr McLaughlin said that in 2023/24, Council would continue to build on the strong foundations to support local business.
That includes $22,500 allocated to continued funding of the partnership with the Smart Precinct NQ.
