Mayor welcomes Federal Government funding for Balonne

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Published
21st September 2021

Federal Government funding of $3.4 million for four projects in Balonne Shire has been welcomed by Mayor Samantha O’Toole.

“This funding is designed as an economic stimulus for small business in Balonne and will translate directly into extra work and jobs in the Shire,” Mayor O’Toole said.

“It will be an immediate boost for businesses and communities, and also create longer-term benefits as well.”

The funding has been announced by Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt and Minister for Agriculture and Water and Member for Maranoa David Littleproud under the third round of the Murray–Darling Basin Economic Development Program.

The four projects approved for Balonne Shire Council, Queensland are:

  • Business mentoring for agricultural and horticultural sectors – $327,000;
  • St George CBD Upgrades and Beautification for Victoria Street – $600,000;
  • Wild Dog Exclusion Fencing Stage 2 – $1.5 million; and
  • Balonne Business Improvement Scheme – $1 million.

“The business mentoring project will support growers, graziers and other producers in areas where they are hoping to expand, diversify and-or value-add, and capitalise on the opportunities from the agricultural and horticultural sectors through provision of tailored business mentoring services.

“The St George CBD upgrades will enhance Victoria Street – the main street of St George – to create a more urbanised environment to attract tourists, improve attractiveness and liveability for locals, and create jobs through delivery of the project and increasing commercial capacity in the town centre.

“Works will include streetscaping, street furniture, landscaping, improved access and natural shade. The enhancements will support and complement the new Hub, currently under construction in Victoria Street.

“The wild dog exclusion fencing project will continue to assist landholders to construct networks of approximately 170 km of wild dog exclusion fencing. It will operate via an application process through which landholders can apply for funding, with funds also to be contributed by the landholder.

“Council will advertise the opportunity to particulate in this project to all landholders in the Balonne Shire.

“The Balonne Business Improvement Scheme will support local businesses and promote tourism by improving commercial premises, including exterior façade improvements and efficient energy upgrades.

“Council will advertise the opportunity to participate in this project to all eligible businesses in the Balonne Shire, including the towns of Bollon, Dirranbandi, Hebel, Mungindi, Nindigully, St George and Thallon.”