Re-Energising Lifestyle Takes Council Budget’s Centre Stage

Building and strengthening Isaac’s lifestyle and liveability is primed for a re-invigoration through a Council budget booster of $10.8M.

The core of Isaac Regional Council’s 2021-22 Budget is re-energising communities through $9.8M for facilities, hubs and compliance, with $1M for parks and recreation.

Mayor Anne Baker said there are very positive signs emerging of the recovery in the events space.

“I’m confident that our efforts will help grow Isaac to be the place for families, professionals and industry to work, rest, play and invest,” Mayor Baker said.

“We have low employment rates; wide open spaces and our region spans from the coast to the coalfields.”

Stage 2 of the Clermont Saleyards and Showgrounds Revitalisation Masterplan Project is set for $3.2M in federal funding to help improve its infrastructure and technology upgrades thanks to an Australian Government injection, through Regional Recovery Partnerships.

Mayor Baker said this investment will support the Isaac community’s vision for a world class saleyards and showgrounds in Clermont – home of our regional show, the oldest in Queensland.

“This unique community venue offers sustainable, modern, adaptable and accessible facilities that support dynamic event opportunities,” she said.

Mayor Baker said $1.59M from the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland program funding allocation announcement will help upgrade vital recreational spaces that benefit Isaac communities.

“A total of $1.2M in the replacement of the Greg Cruickshank Aquatic Centre water park and toddler’s pool,” Mayor Baker said.

“It will also see $355,200 be used to upgrade disability access, lighting and carpark resurfacing at the Dysart Civic Centre and to upgrade the Clermont Civic Centre courtyard. A total of $34,800 will be spent to renew the Carmila Beach water tank.”

Deputy Mayor Kelly Vea Vea, the Planning, Environment and Community Services standing committee chair, said Council is proud to be part of the reactivation of Isaac events across the region’s open spaces and community halls.

“Since COVID-19, we have played a huge role in re-energising events in the Isaac with 298 events led and supported by Council being reactivated,” Cr Vea Vea said.

“We have given nearly $167,000 in COVID-related grant funding from a range of Council initiatives.”

Cr Vea Vea said through the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, $546,000 will be spent to upgrade kitchens at the Clermont Civic Centre, Nebo Showgrounds, St Lawrence Community Hall and the air-conditioning replacement at Middlemount Community Hall.

“These projects help improve our facilities which are part of Isaac’s shared space in hosting events, workshops and conferences and we are proud to see this money being spent on our valuable assets,” Cr Vea Vea said. 

ENDS

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Isaac Regional Council - Brand, Media and Communications Team on:          4846 3333