Parties Urged To Match Weir Promise

October 26, 2020

The Burnett Inland Economic Development Organisation (BIEDO) has called on other candidates in the upcoming State Election to match the LNP’s promise to build Barlil and Cooranga weirs.

Opposition Leader and Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington made a commitment on Sunday that an LNP government would fund the weir projects: $20 million for Barlil Weir in the South Burnett and $25 million for Cooranga Weir in the North Burnett.

Both the Barlil and Cooranga Weir projects were included in the recent Burnett Water Feasibility Study.

The weirs would increase reliability of water supply for the production of crops and livestock operations on Barambah Creek and horticulture on the Boyne River.

“More than half of the businesses in the Burnett Inland are directly related to agriculture, forestry and fishing. Reliable water supply to underpin the sector is absolutely critical as producers and growers continue to face periods of water shortage,” BIEDO CEO Kristy Frahm said.

“Water for current and future economic development continues to be raised as one of the highest priorities in the region.”

Confirmation of the same funding commitment from all State candidates standing in the region would ensure these projects were realised.

Barker Barambah Irrigator Advisory Committee chair Stuart Nicholson said increased water reliability would enable users on the scheme “to better plan and develop their operations, which can be challenging to achieve in the current environment”.

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