Council
16 June, 2023
Making life a little easier for all ages and abilities in Division 1
Moreton Bay Regional Council’s 2023-24 Budget is supporting thriving communities and healthy, active lifestyles for all residents of Division 1.
![Councillor Brooke Savige.](https://somerset-4634.kxcdn.com/img/containers/assets/cr-brooke-savige-1686986440.jpg/114a8951355b309771428cd27ca074b9.jpg)
Councillor Brooke Savige said it’s no secret that residents love living in Division 1 because of the fantastic lifestyle it has to offer, it’s the spot that’s got the lot.
“This financial year, there’s a great focus on providing locals with low-cost and free events, better parks and sports facilities, and improved community infrastructure to enjoy right on your doorstep,” Cr Savige said.
“We know households are feeling the pinch with the rising cost of living, so Council is making it easier for you to get out in your local area to a range of free or low-cost events.
“I’m pleased to share that Council’s ramped-up events calendar means all your favourite events like Australia Day, Jazz and Shiraz, Movie in the Park and even the Emergency Services Expo will be back bigger and better than ever.
“And whether you’re two or ninety-two, our diverse program of cultural activities means there’s something for everyone to enjoy at our local museum or library for free.
“Our Healthy and Active Moreton Program will continue to provide fitness, recreation, and sports workshops at low or no cost for all ages and abilities to keep our residents healthy and happy.
“That’s on top a raft of investments in new parks, sports facilities, and footpaths to support more active lifestyles for the community.
“At Banksia Beach, the tennis courts at Cosmos Park and the Cook Park basketball court are set for makeovers, and our skaters and scooter riders will be pleased to know construction will begin for the Verdoni Street Skate Park upgrades.
“$4.6 million is allocated to over ten park updates in Division 1 alone this financial year, including new playground equipment across parks at Banksia Beach and Ningi, and accessible amenities upgrades at Bongaree, Bellara and Woorim, where $1.4 million is allocated toward a $3 million Changing Places facility with beach wheelchair storage, showers and change rooms.
“I’m also excited for the Bellara Foreshore masterplan to come to fruition after some great feedback from our community consultation, with $1.8 million dedicated to the Sylvan Beach Park revamp, jointly funded by the Queensland Government.
“Council is also continuing to invest in better pathways for our residents to get around easier and safer, with new pathways planned for construction along Tully Street, Pebble Beach Sportsgrounds and Toorbul Foreshore, as well as completing missing links at Dolphin Drive, Foster Street and Goodwin Drive at Bongaree.
“Additionally, $6.5 million will be spent to build the new bridge at White Patch, with improved flood immunity to minimise the impacts of future weather events on the access in and out of White Patch, thanks to Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
“And $1.2 million will be invested in road resurfacing projects in Division 1 alone, providing smoother and safer roads for locals and visitors alike.
“This Budget is about improving the great places and natural spaces that make living in Division 1 so special.”
Budget highlights for Division 1
$6.5 million for the White Patch Esplanade crossing upgrade.*
$1.8 million for upgrades to Sylvan Beach Park Precinct, Bellara.**
$2.5 million for car park and AFL building upgrades at Bribie Island Sports Complex.***
$1.4 million towards a $3 million project to build accessible beach amenities at Woorim.
$1.2 million in road resurfacing.
$800,000 for a pontoon renewal at Bongaree Jetty.
$540,000 Bongaree for new amenities at Anzac Memorial Park.
$525,000 to upgrade the heating at Bribie Island Aquatic Leisure Centre.
$200,000 for a boat ramp renewal and Meldale.
Funded by Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
*With a contribution from the State Govt. COVID Works for Queensland SEQCSP Program
*** With a contribution from the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) and State Govt. COVID Works for Queensland SEQCSP Program.