Community
22 October, 2022
Over $6 million for Cape communities
TWO Cape York communities will share in over $6.10 million for local projects thanks to round two funding from the $100 million Resources Community Infrastructure Fund (RCIF).
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Steven Miles said Mapoon and Weipa will gain additional camping, sporting and recreation facilities.
“Queensland communities should be the first to benefit when the resource sector they support succeeds,” Mr Miles said.
“This round two funding will enhance the project pipeline flowing into resources communities.”
Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the Palaszczuk Government was delivering for remote communities with RCIF.
“The RCIF is delivering for our communities, upgrading the Cullen Point Campground in Mapoon to deliver a new historical walk, and building a new youth Precinct in Weipa, which will provide new sports and recreation facilities,” Ms Lui said.
Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Cr Aileen Addo said council would receive over $2.8 million for the campground upgrade and the development of a historical interpretation walk of mission village building sites in the Old Mapoon Precinct.
“Works will include installing concrete pads for campsites, two shelter structures with seating and three amenities blocks,” Cr Addo said.
“The funding will also provide for concrete paths, signage, power to the site, automatic solar lighting, and landscaping.
“We will gain expanded and improved camping and day visitor facilities, and visitors will have greater opportunities to learn about the history of Mapoon. This will provide opportunities for new local guided-tour services and visitor experiences that will support jobs and economic development.”
Weipa Town Authority Chair Michael Rowland said the grant of over $3.3 million would deliver a vibrant public sport, recreation and youth space for the town.
“This project will create a modern, inclusive youth precinct and vibrant public space for the Weipa community,” Mr Rowland said.
“Works include upgrading the existing skatepark and cricket areas, installing new multi-function courts for ball sports, safe meeting spaces, amenities, pathways, lighting, landscaping and CCTV.
“It will also expand the skate and ride facilities and enhance the oval. When complete, the project will help to support a positive and healthy community and youth culture in Weipa by providing new sport and recreation opportunities and a safe place to make connections and have fun.”
Queensland Resources Council Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane welcomed the announcement of round two funding projects.
“The QRC is the peak body for coal, metal and gas explorers, producers and suppliers and we are very proud that members of our industry are contributing a total of $70 million to the RCIF for projects that will have significant benefits for our local resource communities,” Mr Macfarlane said.
