A new $1.4 million water treatment plant at Queensland’s Palm Island has been completed, and will supply residents with reliable, quality water.
Minister for Local Government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Mark Furner, said the water treatment plant would improve health and living conditions for the community now and into the future.
“The government invested close to $1.3 million towards this project, which has given certainty to the community and created jobs for locals on the island,” Mr Furner said.
“Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council delivered this project to replace existing, ageing infrastructure with a specifically designed plant to cater for future growth on Palm.
“Importantly, Council trained and employed locals to work on the project, giving community members new skills and opportunities.
“It’s fantastic to see the results of the highly successful program revitalising areas like Palm Island and creating jobs where they are needed the most.”
Mayor of Palm Island, Alf Lacey, said improved water supply and quality has been an important issue to be addressed for the people of Palm Island.
“There has been very positive feedback from the community on this project,” Mr Lacey said
“We’re delighted to have delivered this important project for the Palm Island community.”
Member for Townsville, Scott Stewart, commended the council on their work with water and wastewater management company, Aeramix, to deliver the new plant.
“During construction the water project supported jobs, using local firms, and we are working with Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council to ensure workers have the skills to support the long-term operation of the plant,” Mr Stewart said.
“The Queensland Government also provided funds of almost $6 million to deliver a new wastewater treatment plant on the island, with construction set to be finished late 2017.
“As a government, we are committed to delivering infrastructure that will provide communities with manageable, low-maintenance and long-lasting solutions for the treatment of water and wastewater.”
Funding for the water treatment plant was provided through the State Government’s Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program.
