March 13, 2020
Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien visited Kilkivan, Goomeri and Murgon on Friday to catch up on several community projects which have been assisted recently by Federal Government funding.
In Murgon, four community groups have received grants through Round 5 of the Stronger Communities Program which supports capital projects to benefit local communities.
The Rotary Club of Murgon received $12,500 to install an aerator in the famous lily ponds at Murgon.
The project will improve the fish habitat, cut down the number of mosquitoes in the area and should also improve the smell, which has been bothering local residents.
Rotary Club president Heath Sander said the project would help make the ponds a feature for Murgon.
As well as improving water circulation, a 3m water spout is also planned in the pond closest to Lamb Street.
The total cost of the project will be $24,900.
Murgon Men’s Shed received $3398 to purchase a portable defibrillator to be mounted in the work area. The funding will also allow the group to buy a thickness planer / joiner for their woodworking.
Graham House Community Centre plans to use its $4574 grant to develop a community vegetable garden at the rear of the building in Taylor Street East. The project will also create a tranquil outdoor area where people can relax.
The Queensland Dairy and Heritage Museum received $5000 to extend an electrical connection to The Barn. Treasurer Linda Bauer said having power in the area would allow it to be used for functions at night. The long-term aim of the association is to install a kitchen in the end of the building and make it available for hire for functions.
In Goomeri, the Show Society received $20,000 to upgrade its kitchen and hot water supply at the showgrounds, and improve power infrastructure.
This will allow the Show Society to run events at night without needing to hire lighting and generators, as well as improving security with additional lighting.
In Kilkivan, the Community Garden and Railway Markets Project received $10,000 to revegetate sites around the Kilkivan Rail Trail.
The group plans to plant native species including drought-tolerant grevilleas, eucalypts and tea-tree as well as plants and shrubs to attract native bees.
“Each of these community groups and their volunteers works hard to make the South Burnett a better place to live, and I am pleased to be able to support their efforts with this funding,” Mr O’Brien said.
“I congratulate these much-valued organisations on the good work they do to build a stronger, healthier and happier community.”
