DECEMBER 15, 2021 - POWERFUL MOVE FORWARD FOR FUTURE OF PORT HINCHINBROOK
The future for the private Hinchinbrook Harbour estate is looking bright with Cassowary Coast Regional Council recently resolving to execute funding agreements for the normalisation of Port Hinchinbrook.
This outcome is a fine example of three levels of Government working together to resolve issues that have been impacting the residents of Port Hinchinbrook and the broader region for over a decade.
Council officially took ownership of the Port Hinchinbrook Sewage Treatment Plant on 2 December 2021, and at Local Government Meeting 9 December 2021, Council resolved to progress with the normalisation of the estate based on funding from the State and Federal Governments.
Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor, Mark Nolan said the funding provided by the State Government will ensure that sewerage infrastructure and assets within the private estate meet Council standards as part of the normalisation and that compensation for acquisition was funded.
“Our broader rate base will not be bearing these costs,” he said.
“As highlighted in the report a budget shortfall of $1.95 million is currently modelled through a defined benefited area levy on Port Hinchinbrook properties which would be structured in such a way that current and future property owners within the estate would contribute.
“Council will however, make a formal request to the Australian Government for this shortfall to be funded to reduce the impact on residents.
“With numerous recent failures of the estates ageing sewerage treatment plant 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.
“The Hinchinbrook Harbour – STP License agreement provides for secure sewerage services for residents whilst the normalisation of the private estate is finalised. This agreement reflects the commitment of the Queensland Government, Liquidator and Council to ensure that environmental releases from the estate are a thing of the past,” said Mayor Nolan.
“Council acknowledge the importance of the advocacy our community has provided in realising the funding for emergency dredging of One Mile Creek. This project will not only provide improved access to the World Heritage-listed Hinchinbrook Island but improve safety for recreational anglers residing or visiting in the region.
“A report considering contract award for these works is anticipated to be presented to Council for consideration early in 2022. I look forward to providing an update at this time.
“Council will also look to appoint a project manager to ensure the successful delivery of this significant project.
“Overall this project is anticipated to deliver great outcomes for the residents of Port Hinchinbrook, the Cassowary Coast and the wider region.”
For more information, please reach out to Council by phoning 1300 763 903 or by emailing enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.