September 30, 2016
Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington is seeking feedback on the latest structural report into the controversial Jimna Fire Tower which shows the ageing wooden structure is in danger of collapse.
Mr Frecklington said the report assessing the condition of the 47m tall tower was available for community feedback.
The report, by Wood Research and Development from Caboolture, has been provided to the State Government to help guide future decisions about the tower.
“The overall assessment found the Jimna Fire Tower is in poor condition and is not structurally sound, with a danger of the Tower collapsing under even moderate force winds,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“There are areas of advanced decay, especially in the lower sections as well as the connectors.
“The assessors have provided several options in regards to either complete remediation or removal.
“To make the fit for public use without cables or anchors would require a substantial financial input of more than $1 million.
“As I have only just stated recently, during the term of our former LNP Government, approximately $350,000 was spent on works to stabilise the tower. These works were halted after additional decay was discovered and we made the difficult decision not to invest further funding.
“I would encourage residents from Jimna, Kilcoy and other local areas to access the report from the Department of Agriculture and Forestry and provide feedback on what is the right option for the community.
“The consultation process will inform the Department’s decision about the future of the tower, so this is an important time to get involved.”
The Jimna Fire Tower was built in 1977 and is claimed by supporters to be the tallest man-made wooden fire tower of its type in the southern hemisphere.
The tower offered 360 degree views over the surrounding forestry areas.
It was closed to tourists in 2006 because of its condition and was later removed from the Queensland Heritage Register.
Supporters say the tower formerly attracted more than 30,000 tourists a year.
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