Cassowary Coast Community Connect #20 20 May 2022

One Coast - Cassowary Coast

MAY 20, 2022

COMMUNITY CONNECT

FUNDING GREEN LIGHT FOR STP AND DREDGING PROJECTS

Port Hinchinbrook STP

Residents, businesses and visitors to Cardwell and Port Hinchinbrook are welcoming the news that funding agreements for One Mile Creek dredging and Port Hinchinbrook Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) have been executed.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Mark Nolan said it had taken a lot of hard work with strong community advocation and all levels of government working together towards this positive outcome.

“Our community emphatically told Council that this was a key priority for residents and I’m proud to announce that funding agreements have

been executed.

“We understand that the marine, tourism and recreational industries and the people who work in these industries depend on access to our waterways. Providing a navigable channel is also important to residents and visitors to our waterside communities; our stunning beaches, the Great Barrier Reef and nearby islands which are a major drawcard for our tourism market.”

Councillor Nolan said that the execution of the funding agreement with the Australian Government for $1.5 million, allows Council to progress a procurement process for the emergency dredging of One Mile Creek.

Once completed, the emergency dredging will create opportunities for recreational and commercial users alike and have flow on effects to the local economy.

The navigable channel will also improve safety for marine users and support the local volunteer Coast Guard.

In further good news, formal agreements have been finalised for the funding required for upgrading the Port Hinchinbrook STP. With numerous failures of the estates ageing STP and associated infrastructure, this matter has been critical to resolve as releases to the environment had the very real potential to impact on

public health and the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.

“Council has signed an agreement with the Australian Government for $6 million in funding for the STP. The total cost for this project is $14.25 million with the Queensland Government also providing $6.3 million.

The project will see a new STP built to replace the current failing system as well as renewal of some pump station and effluent infrastructure, culverts and road assets.

“Council staff are working behind the scenes to progress with the design phase.

The current schedule aims to have the design

fast tracked with preliminary designs complete by the end of July 2022, and tenders called in August 2022.

“I thank the community for working with Council and both the Queensland and Australian Government for helping progress these critical projects, Council hope this lasting solution will provide confidence for future private investment in this iconic development.

This project is a perfect of example of walking together in terms of one community and one region,” Councillor Nolan said.

For more information on the above projects, please contact Council on 1300 763 903 or email

enquiries@cassowarycoast,qld. gov.au.

Alternatively, you can find out more by visiting the Port Hinchinbrook Normalisation project webpage at Port Hinchinbrook Sewerage Treatment Plant and Normalisation – Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

The One Mile Creek emergency dredging project is funded through the Australian Government’s Community Development Grants Program.

The Port Hinchinbrook STP and normalisation project is funded by the Australian Government, Queensland Government and Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

WARRINA LAKES COMMUNITY PARKLAND

Warrina Lakes Community Parkland

BMX Pump Track, Nature Playground, Wetlands and more Car Parking are part of the future of the Warrina Lakes Community Parkland.

At the April Local Government Meeting, Council endorsed the Warrina Lakes Strategic Master Plan (the Plan).

Planning and Regional Development Portfolio Holder, Councillor Nick Pervan said the Plan provides a vision that establishes the priorities and strategic direction for projects within the Warrina Lakes facil-

ity over the next 10 years.

“The Warrina Lakes Community Parkland is an important community asset from both a recreational and cultural perspective.

“The works will raise the profile of the Parklands and increase patronage with the masterplan providing a multifaceted space that can be enjoyed by locals and visitors to the region.

“The wetland project will have significant environmental benefits, and will assist in increasing water quality within

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the catchment and provide habitat for a number of bird and fish species.

“I am most excited for the BMX pump track and nature playground which will complement the highly successful mini rail and provide new activities for our youth,” said Councillor Pervan.

A number of existing attractions and facilities are proposed to be retained, such as the historic covered shed, mini rail, Anzac Avenue and the Mamu Bush Tucker Garden.

Proposed improvement works include: • Rebranding of the facility from Warrina Lakes to “Warrina Lakes Community Parklands”; • New directional signage; • An upgraded car park; • A nature playground; • A BMX pump track; • Two new wetlands with bird hides; • A lake viewing/wedding platform; • A pop up outdoor cinema; • Significant revegetation areas;

• Linkages through to the Warrina Retirement Village; and • Various footpath, lighting and parking improvements.

The Plan underwent an initial consultation phase in 2019 and draft consultation phase in 2021, during which a total of 120 submissions were received from the community.

The suggestions, feedback and ongoing discussions with the community and key stakeholders were collated and used to develop the Plan.

The staged implementa-

tion of the Plan will be a matter for Council’s further consideration, as part of its annual budget deliberations and delivery of its works and maintenance programs. The Plan will be used to apply for state and federal funding for individual projects within the Plan where available.

For further information please call Council on 1300 763 903 or via email on enquiries@cassowarycoast. qld.gov.au.

Cairns Local News, Friday, May 20, 2022 PAGE 13

One Coast, Cassowary Coast

May 20, 2022

BIOLOGICAL CONTROL AGENT REDUCES THE SPREAD OF SIAM WEED

Stem-galling Flies - Kelly Harrington - Land Management and Biosecurity Technical Officer

More than 300 stem-galling flies, or Cecidochares Connexa, have been released by the Cassowary Coast Regional Council in the Munro Plains area to combat the spread of the notorious Siam Weed (Chromolaena Odorata).

The stem-galling fly is the first to be released within Australia to combat Siam weed.

The gall-fly combats the

invasive weed by stunting the growth, reducing flowering and stopping the plant from seeding.

Environment portfolio holder, Councillor Jeff Baines said Siam weed, commonly in the Tully, Murray Upper and Johnstone catchment areas, is one of Australia’s most invasive weeds which smothers native plants and can poison

PAGE 14 Cairns Local News, Friday, May 20, 2022

livestock.

“Since 2018, Council has been working with the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries’ (DAF) Tropical Weeds Research Centre to release over 7,000 stem-galling flies into Siam Weed infestations at 44 sites across the Cassowary “Nyleta Hill has been one of these release sites and monitoring shows plant gall

Stem-galling Flies before release

numbers increase over the years and the flies spread to new Siam weed areas, which is a positive outcome for longterm weed control methods.

“Within the new site, landholders should expect to see gall development within 21 days of release, with a completed life cycle of the stem-galling fly taking up to 65 days.

“Whilst the stem-galling fly does not eradicate the weed fully, it has proven to successfully reduce and minimise the spread of the weed.

“In addition to the release of the stem-galling fly, Cassowary Coast Regional Council has recently undertaken roadside control of Siam weed to help residents, neighbouring council areas, and those further afield,

to manage Siam weed,” said Councillor Baines.

Council and DAF will continue to monitor the flies and expect to see a positive result for the landholders at Munro Hill and its surrounds.

For further information please call Council on 1300 763 903 or via email on enquiries@cassowarycoast. qld.gov.au.

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One Coast, Cassowary Coast

May 20, 2022

LAND SALES PROVIDE OPPORTUNITY FOR NEW HOMES

Tully Township

Construction is underway at a number of locations across the Cassowary Coast following the sale of all eighteen properties previously owned by Council in a Tully residential subdivision.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council successfully sold the properties which had been as-

sessed as not providing return or community benefit, while Council was owning the properties.

Councillor Nick Pervan said it is exciting to see construction taking place across Tully and surrounds. “Over the past two years, we have seen a huge uptake in individuals and families who want to take advantage of

the relaxed lifestyle and beautiful environment we have on offer and with an influx of new residents, many people have struggled to find appropriate housing.

“Council offering these vacant lots for sale provides a number of benefits. Income generated can then be used by Council to support future

projects and the vacant lots provide an opportunity for homes to be built and new residents to call the Cassowary Coast home.

“The 18 lots have successfully been sold, with already some buyers already well into the construction phase on these blocks which is a great outcome for the

community. Another lot is currently under contract and is due for settlement in May. The sale of the eighteen (18) lots sold by Council have generated $682,500,” said Councillor Pervan.

As a part of the 2020/2021 budget, Cassowary Coast Regional Council began a significant review of

its assets. This process identified a number of lots for disposal and in 2020 Council resolved to commence a tender process on a subdivision of eighteen (18) vacant residential lots located in Tully.

A House and Land package at Quarry Road, Stoters Hill was sold at auction and Council has

now endorsed recommendations to release for public tender Ranch Road, Munro Plains, and will hold on disposing of 41 Owen Street, Innisfail and land at Scullen Avenue, Mighell.

To read the full report, see here: https://cutt.ly/qG4VMra

JOIN US FOR NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK BREAKFAST

The National Reconciliation Week 2022 theme, “Be Brave.

Make Change.” is a challenge to all Australians— individuals, families, communities, organisations and government—to Be Brave and tackle the unfinished business of reconciliation so we can Make Change for the benefit of all Australians.

To mark this year’s National Reconciliation Week, which runs from 27 May to 3 June, Cassowary Coast Regional

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Council is inviting residents to join in a a shared breakfast.

Run in partnership with Mamu Health Service and Tully State High School, the breakfast will be held Thursday 26 May 2022 at Tully State High multi-purpose building at 6:45 am with seating for 7:00 am. The event will feature a live stream of the reconciliation breakfast held at Parliament House and speeches.

The annual celebration is a

time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation.

This event is expected to sell out fast so make sure you secure your tickets today.

Tickets to the event are free and you can book your place by visiting: www.trybooking. com/BZIGN.

Cairns Local News, Friday, May 20, 2022 PAGE 15

One Coast, Cassowary Coast

May 28, 20, 2022 2022 January

COUNCIL SET TO SAVE T H R O U G H

COMMUNITY TO COMMENT ON CEMETERY STRATEGY S O L A R Cassowary Coast Regional Council (CCRC) invites the community to provide feedback on the draft Cemeteries Management Strategy.

The strategy document will guide the planning, management and operation of Cassowary Coast Regional Council controlled cemeteries for the next ten years.

Councillor Nick Pervan said that cemeteries have an important place in our community and Council recognises the importance of planning to meet the future needs of our residents.

“There are a number of factors that individuals may consider when deciding on

Solar Panels at Tully Showgrounds

where and how they will be laid to rest at the end of their life, including available facilities, cost, religion, personal/ moral values.

“At last count, there were 48 languages spoken and 46 different religions practiced within the region.

“Research has shown, the Cassowary Coast region has an aging population, but we also pride ourselves on the regions cultural diversity.

These factors and more create varying religious requirements and end-of-life choices,” said Councillor Pervan.

The draft strategy takes into consideration the evolution of the funeral and burial industry,

land availability, population trends, migration, cultural practices, future demand and end-of-life decision trends for residents. All of this information allows Council to plan for the future and continue to deliver suitable cemetery services for the community.

Council invites the community to review the strategy and provide feedback on the recommendations outlined.

To view the draft strategy and have your say on the project visit https://www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/CemeteriesManagementStrategy.

Submissions will be open from 13 May 2022 until 3 June 2022.

Solar Panels on Innisfail Shire Hall

Cassowary Coast Regional Council is set to save thousands each year and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emission thanks to the installation of solar panels across Council owned and operated assets.

The Energy Efficiency Program commenced in 2019 and to date has achieved: • Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions from solar energy equivalent to 1660 Tonnes of carbon dioxide • 24 new active solar sites with a production capacity of 970.7 kw • Full LED Lighting replacements to Innisfail Shire Hall, Tully Depot and Innisfail Depot • Annual solar production value of $175,000 • Annual power savings of

over $545,000 made up of solar production, energy management and energy efficient fixtures.

Mayor Mark Nolan said this project delivers both environmental and financial benefits for the community.

“The installation of solar to Council sites has seen a substantial saving in Council’s ongoing power bills and also taken positive steps in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

“In the two and half years since the first site was installed Council has seen a direct saving of $283,312 which will increase as additional solar sites are installed.

“Additional steps were also taken to decrease emissions including tariff reviews and the renewal of energy-efficient

fittings and fixtures throughout Council facilities,” said Mayor Nolan.

Council has recently awarded a solar package for the installation of an additional 81.4kw capacity bringing the total capacity of the program above one megawatt.

The Energy Efficiency Program is proudly funded by the Queensland Governments Works for Queensland in association with Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

To read the full report visit www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov. au/agendas.

Alternatively, you can contact Council on 1300 763 903 or via email on enquiries@cassowarycoast. qld.gov.au.

K E Y Cassowary Coast Regional Council Contact 1300 763 903 Visit our website www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au Write: Please address all correspondence to: Andrew Graffen, Chief Executive Officer PO Box 887 Innisfail, QLD 4860 Email: enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au

C O N T A C T S

Visit Council Cassowary Coast Regional Council has three Customer Service Centres across the region.

Specially trained staff can provide information and advice on topics including: ● local laws and compliance ● rates enquiries ● account payments (EFTPOS facilities available) ● animal registration.

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Customer Service Centres and Opening Hours Innisfail Shire Hall 70 Rankin St. Innisfail Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm Wednesday 9:30am - 4:30pm Tully Tully Civic Centre, 38-40 Bryant St. Tully Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm Wednesday 9:30am - 4:30pm Cardwell Cardwell Library, 4 Balliol St. Cardwell Monday - Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm

Cassowary Coast Libraries comprises of 4 branches located at Cardwell, Innisfail, Tully and Mission Beach. For locations, opening times or general enquiries, please call 1300 366 616 or visit www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/libraries Waste Transfer Stations locations and opening hours can be found by visiting: www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/transfer-stations Community Connect is a publication of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council. Supplied by Council and published within the Cairns Local News newspaper. All enquiries regarding content contained within this publication should be directed to Council.

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