Shovel Ready for New Year

Mareeba Shire Council is gearing up for a busy year with several major projects ready to commence in early 2021.

Council awarded and endorsed a number of tenders to the tune of $4 million at the last Council meeting for the year.

“This is a very exciting time for the community and the first six months of 2021 will see the delivery of numerous projects across the Shire,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.

“These major works include, the construction of a new Mareeba Pound and Animal Refuge facility which is long overdue, a major solar power project and the refurbishment of the Cedric Davies Hub to accommodate a more spacious library for Mareeba.”

At Wednesday’s meeting, Council was pleased to award two major contracts to local businesses in Mareeba while the third being awarded to a local Cairns-based company.

Local builder Mindil Pty Ltd has been contracted to construct the new pound and animal refuge facility at Mareeba, Mareeba based company FNQ Solar Solutions was awarded the tender for the Shire wide solar project, while Osborne Construction Solutions Pty Ltd who will work with local suppliers and contractors to refurbish the old Bowls Club into a modern new library and community space.

Mayor Toppin said Council is very appreciative to both the State and Federal Governments for the grants Council has received.

“All of these projects are funded through grants and we are extremely grateful to both levels of government for the assistance provided to enable Council to deliver these projects without burdening the ratepayer,” Cr Toppin said.

In addition to these major projects set to kick off next year, Council will complete the breathtaking Barron Falls Walking Trails in Kuranda and continue to complete a number of smaller projects under the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program including the installation of additional solar lights, and refurbishment works on community facilities across the Shire.

Mayor Toppin said Council would also be focussing on the water infrastructure asset management plan as aging infrastructure is identified for critical renewal.

“Much of our water infrastructure underground was installed over 60 years ago and is reaching the end of its life and therefore needs renewal,” Cr Toppin said.

“Our staff have been working on a comprehensive and strategic plan to replace the infrastructure to ensure that the essential service is not compromised.

“I am very excited for 2021 as Council continues to improve the liveability for all residents across our wonderful Shire,” Cr Toppin concluded.