Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has delivered more than half a billion dollars worth of projects and services for the Burdekin electorate via the Crisafulli government’s first budget.

Focussed on the key issues directly affecting local communities, Mr Last said essential services and infrastructure saw increased funding and election commitments were ‘fully honoured’.

“Across the Burdekin electorate, almost $600M in projects and services have been supported in this budget including every single election commitment,” Mr Last said.  “This year’s budget delivers on the priorities that Queenslanders supported at the last election while laying the foundation for long term budget repair.”

“In addition to boosting frontline health worker numbers, important health projects like mental health support and programs for both adults and young people have been funded and those services will deliver a huge benefit across the state, including in the Isaac area.  Addressing isolation for seniors, support to overcome drug and alcohol addiction and a boost to preventing domestic, family and sexual violence are also key parts of the budget that will strengthen our community.”

“The budget also locks in previously announced projects including upgrades to the Bruce Highway, increased social housing and improved resources for our Police.  Funding has also been confirmed for programs to tackle youth crime and to support teachers to provide the best education possible for our young people.”

“We’ve also kept focus on delivering a better future for Bowen and Collinsville with funding to progress the Salisbury Plains Industrial Precinct and upgrades to the Collinsville Community Precinct to deliver more services.”

Mr Last said that the budget was responsible and was built on respecting taxpayers’ money but delivered funding to improve essential services and strengthen the community.

“It’s very easy to look at only the multi-billion projects when you look at a budget,” he said.  “But quite often, especially in regional Queensland, smaller projects can make just as big a difference.”

“Collinsville has faced its fair share of challenges when it comes to health services, but the hospital staff go above and beyond to assist people in their time of need.  Replacing the staff accommodation means staff can focus on helping the community rather than merely surviving in accommodation that, quite simply, is no longer fit for purpose.”

“One of the strengths of communities like ours is the people and we have ensured that we support them no matter what they do or what stage of life they are in.  New shade structures at the Bowen pool, for example, will benefit young families and the expansion of the Men’s Shed in Collinsville means we can magnify the mental health benefits that the organisation already delivers.”

“Meanwhile, locking in funding for the airstrip upgrade at Collinsville and a new station for the Abbott Point Rural Fire Brigade means improved safety when the community needs it most.”

“This is a budget that invests in a stronger, more productive economy that will benefit all Queenslanders.”