Safety to be improved at three Rural Fire Brigade sites in Livingstone

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Published
23rd March 2022

Three Rural Fire Brigades in Livingstone Shire will have road access upgrades to improve operations and safety for the volunteer emergency services.

Livingstone Shire Council was recently successful in obtaining $4.5 million under the Australian Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants programme for seven projects.

There were a number of road projects which were not successfully funded, however Council will continue to assess future funding opportunities to further enhance community resilience.

Mayor Andy Ireland, Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, said one of Council’s priority projects was to improve access to Coowonga, Nerimbera, and Maryvale brigades.

“The brigades were identified through consultation with the Rural Fire Brigades, the Local Disaster Management Group, and Livingstone community following the 2019 bushfires,” Mayor Ireland said.

“The sites currently experience erosion and water logging issues which make it difficult for vehicles to operate during adverse conditions.

“It’s vital these brigades have safe access to their facilities especially during times of emergency.”

Part of the Australian Government grant will also go towards enhancing capabilities at the Barmaryee Sports Precinct, which was used as the staging area during the 2019 bushfires.

“The Barmaryee Sports Precinct is ideally located on the western fringe of the Yeppoon urban area and has many features that make it a suitable facility but upgrades are needed to ensure maximum use by emergency services,” Mayor Ireland said.

“Council will use a portion of the Australian Government grant to repair the surface of the current car park as well as extend it.

“Hardstands at water filling points will also be installed to enable emergency service vehicles safe, reliable, and quick access to water.

“I’d like to sincerely thank the Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry and the Australian Government for providing significant funding to the Livingstone community.”