Mayor Message - Federal Election Priorities - Mayor Liz Schmidt

The recent weather event caused devastating flooding for our neighbouring regions to the north and to the west. Fortunately, our region escaped most of the severe effects of the flooding.

During the floods, it was breathtaking and heartbreaking to watch 1000s of ‘weirs full’ of water every day run over the Macrossan Bridge, whilst our southern farmers are still drought declared and praying for rain.

Hundreds of truckies were stranded here with goods that couldn’t be delivered to those who needed it.

There has never been a more important time to highlight Council’s recently released Federal Election Priorities to our federal candidates, Ministers, Shadow Ministers and Senators.

Our priorities are critical for growth and prosperity in our region. To provide water security for our region we need Big Rocks Weir and Drought Assistance.

We need Transport Infrastructure to provide a hub that would allow us to unload trucks and transport much-needed items into Townville via rail and road when access is cut at the Macrossan Bridge.

Residents can be reassured that Council is driving these messages now more than ever, whilst the evidence is clear and fresh in the memories of the decision makers.

I have personally shared video footage of the Burdekin River in full flood with Senator the Hon Matt Canavan, Minister for Resources and Northern Australia and conveyed the needs of our region. The Senator agrees with our issues and is fully supportive of the weir proposal.

For more information about our Federal Election Priorities, visit here.

- Mayor Liz Schmidt

OGG 26 February 2019