The Albanese Labor Government has partnered with the Miles Government, local councils and community groups to deliver local infrastructure projects across Queensland that help safeguard water resources and protect our natural environment.
Under the new $211 million Water Infrastructure for Sustainable and Efficient Regions (WISER) initiative, the Mareeba Regional Water Security project in Far North Queensland will receive a $7.3 million boost.
Led by Mareeba Shire Council, this project will reduce water loss and improve water security for the community and industry, through upgrades to the Mareeba water treatment plant clarifier system and replacing old water mains. Upgrades will also lead to improved water quality in the Barron River and the surrounding environment.
The $7.3 million project is jointly funded by the Australian Government, through the National Water Grid Fund, and Mareeba Shire Council, each contributing $3.65 million.
This project is 'shovel ready' thanks to design works undertaken by council supported by $287,990 in Queensland Government funding through the Building our Regions program.
The WISER initiative is supporting 23 projects to deliver more efficient and sustainable water use in regional communities across Queensland, Western Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and South Australia.
Helping to drive the nation's transition to a circular economy, many of the projects will be powered by renewable energy, use recycled materials, and refurbish existing structures to reduce the construction footprint.
As stated by the Minister for the Environment and Water the Hon Tanya Plibersek:
"Upgrading the Mareeba water treatment plant clarifier and replacing outdated water mains will significantly reduce water loss and improve water security for both the community and industry.
"It's fantastic to work with Mareeba Shire Council to safeguard our precious water resources and protect our natural environment."
As stated by Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing, Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher:
"The Miles Labor Government continues to deliver for the people of Mareeba.
"This upgrade is about more than delivering improved water infrastructure, it's a cost of living measure that will benefit the community long term. Today's Australian Government funding along with Queensland's existing Building our Regions investment is helping to put downward pressure on rates and water bills, while future-proofing the region's water infrastructure and water supply resilience as the local population, tourism economy and industries grow.
"I'm proud to work alongside the Australian Government and council to deliver this funding - I know just how important water security is for the Mareeba community.
"Regional Queensland is no stranger to the devastating impacts of severe tropical cyclones, storms and floods, as well as droughts, so it's a constant focus for us to continually improve and maintain the water infrastructure to ensure the reliable delivery of safe, clean drinking water for these communities."
As stated by Senator Nita Green:
"Working together with Mareeba Shire Council and the Australian Government, we are committed to delivering clean and sustainable water for our regional and remote communities.
"Improving our water infrastructure is not only good for our communities and industry, but also for the environment that depends on it.
"Delivering these projects will reduce loss and improve the reliability of water for community and productive use, which is something we can all be proud about."
Quotes attributable Member for Cook, Cynthia Lui MP:
"I will always work with our local Mayors and lobby for funding to get results for our Cook community.
"I know our Councils need help to get the water infrastructure our communities need – so I'm proud to see funds flowing to Mareeba and Douglas Councils for important water projects.
"This is an important piece of infrastructure that will serve the Mareeba community for many years to come."
As stated by Mareeba Shire Council Mayor Angela Toppin:
"We are pleased to receive this vital funding that, combined with our own investment, will help us to replace old water mains and refurbish the two existing new clarifiers as part of water treatment upgrades here in Mareeba.
"We want to ensure we are delivering a safe, secure and reliable water supply for our residents and industry well into the future.
"These funded upgrades will not only help to improve our water quality but take pressure off other parts of the treatment process – also allowing us to increase the overall amount of water we can produce, which is a fantastic outcome for our community."
