$2m LNP pledge for Dungeness boatramp

TWO million dollars will be allocated to spend on the Dungeness boatramp if the Liberal National Party can wrestle power from Labor at the upcoming state election, Hinchinbrook candidate Scott Piper has announced.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council announced a project early this year to develop the area, which Mr Piper says the LNP will boost with financial support.

He said the LNP are commitment to deliver a long-term solution for better marine access at Dungeness and would allocate $2 million to support the
current council project to build a rock wall at Dungeness.

Mr Piper said: ‘Re-establishing the spit at Dungeness and dredging to improve marine access has been talked about for years, but until now, there’s been no applicant.

‘To the great credit of the current Hinchinbrook Shire Council, it has taken the lead as the applicant and proponent of that project and the LNP is backing it.

‘A new LNP Government will contribute $2 million to assist with the capital cost of re-establishing the rock wall and undertaking dredging to improve marine access.

‘This funding, to be provided through the Queensland Marine Infrastructure Fund, is a vote of confidence in the tourism and economic potential of the region.’

Mr Piper said a new LNP government would also work with the council to remove approval roadblocks and deliver a long-term plan for management.

“This is a key part of the LNP’s commitment – it’s an important part of our plan that will deliver a sustainable, long-term outcome, not just a stop-gap measure.’.

‘Knowing that under an LNP Government, improved access at Dungeness will be maintained by the port of Townsville going forward, would end the uncertainty.

‘Hinchinbrook, Lucinda and Dungeness would be able to position itself as a first class boating and fishing location for locals and visitors, with reliable access.

‘This outcome would be a great outcome for recreational and commercial boaties and a huge win for the Ingham Coast Guard and marine safety outcomes.’