A lasting solution has been delivered for the local communities of the Cassowary Coast on the Port Hinchinbrook Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), thanks to the Palaszczuk Government.
Through an acquisition process by the Coordinator-General, the Port Hinchinbrook STP is now owned and operated by Council.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Steven Miles said the Treatment Plant had a long history of challenges affecting its operation.
“There have been a range of challenges with the operation and maintenance of the STP in recent times, which have impacted the local community,” Mr Miles said.
“This recent development represents the biggest step forward in resolving long term issues with the STP and is a great Christmas gift for the local communities of the Cassowary Coast.
“I acknowledge the efforts of Cassowary Coast Regional Council in working with the State to rectify these issues.
“And I want to thank local Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto for being such a strong advocate for this community and working with me to achieve this great result.”
Mr Miles said the Queensland Government allocated more than $6.4 million through the 2021-22 budget to support funding upgrades to the STP, which can now get underway.
“The Queensland Government will continue to work through the technical aspects with Council to formalise funding and land tenure arrangements and other documentation as necessary to support the project.
“This is a fine example of the three levels of government working together to resolve a long-term issue for the Cassowary Coast community.”
“The Council, the local member, the Federal government, and most importantly, the residents of Port Hinchinbrook now can see this resolved.”
