Community & Business
24 October, 2023
Multi-million dollar investments delivered for a better shire future
MORE than $44 million was invested in key water and road projects throughout Mareeba Shire during the past 12 months.
Tabled and adopted at the recent Ordinary meeting, Mareeba Shire Council’s 2022-2023 Annual Report highlighted the organisation's major investments and achievements in delivering services over the past year.
Mayor Angela Toppin said while council had faced many challenges in 2022/23, it was financially sustainable and dedicated to delivering services.
“There was a significant investment in infrastructure services, including $15.2m dedicated to roads and drainage, and $29.2m to water, waste, and sewerage,” she said.
“Council continued to prioritise our 10-year Water Strategy and saw upgrades to essential infrastructure to help secure safe and reliable water access for our growing community,” she said.
A breakdown of key capital works completed during 2022-2023 included $2m towards the re-sheet, reseal and asphalt program, $1.4m to the Parks and Open Spaces strategy, $3.5m for water pipe replacements, $1.7m for the Granite Creek sewerage pump station upgrade, and $1.5m for the Mareeba Aquatic Facility.
While more than 54% of council revenue was derived from rates and charges, the second major source of revenue, almost 30%, was from grants, subsidies, contributions and donations.
The annual report also focussed on council’s continued efforts to advocate on the most crucial issues impacting the community, Mayor Toppin said.
“Council continued to advocate to both State and Federal Government levels about issues vital to the community,”she said.
“This includes seeking funding for essential water infrastructure, roads and the environment as well as lobbying for increased support for local services for community safety and health.”
Mayor Toppin said she was pleased to report on the achievements realised this year.
“In 2022/23, council continued to deliver important services including community facilities, libraries, community partnerships and events.”
Another key highlight was the outcomes achieved in Parks and Open Spaces program following community consultation.
Many projects had benefitted from this program including upgrades to Bicentennial Lakes, Anzac Park and Mareeba East Park in Mareeba and Centenary and Anzac Park in Kuranda.
The Mareeba Aquatic Centre also received a new Splash Park and heating for both the 50m pool and toddler pool.
The recent meeting also heard that council was making significant progress towards the completion of projects listed under the Parks and Open Spaces Action Plan.
“The plan is focussed on the enhancement of the shire's liveability and visual appeal, and to encourage active communities and economic development,” Mayor Toppin said.
“Projects under the plan are funded through a combination of council’s own funding and external grants and subsidies.”
One project to revitalise Bicentennial Lakes in Mareeba was reported to be progressing well, with the playground and pump track expected to be completed by early 2024.
“Thanks to Councillors and council staff, this council will continue to strive towards its vision as a growing, confident and sustai
