With the Queensland Budget being handed down today, Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto is continuing his push for the State Government to deliver for North Queensland.
Addressing traffic congestion in the northern suburbs, locking in water security by progressing the Haughton Pipeline project, rebuilding the Rockpool and refurbishing Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre are amongst the Mayor's key asks.
Mayor Dametto said with Townsville continuing to grow at pace, now was the time for the State to invest in the infrastructure and projects needed to support that growth and strengthen the region's future.
"We've been very clear about our expectations of the State Government. Townsville deserves its fair share if we're to meet the expectations attached to being the capital of North Queensland," Cr Dametto said.
"This is one of the fastest-growing regions in the state, but we're behind on the level of investment needed to match that growth."
Mayor Dametto said Council had put forward a detailed and practical list of priority projects that would unlock housing, improve connectivity and enhance the liveability of the city.
"We've made it clear we want to see a final solution to the longstanding issues along Woolcock Street to ease the congestion of those travelling through the northern suburbs," he said.
"We've also put forward a strong case for Round 2 of the Residential Activation Fund, which the State Government recently increased to $1 billion, to unlock housing and investment through the Lionel Turner Drive extension and other key areas across the city."
A key focus is maintaining and enhancing Townsville's lifestyle, with Council seeking investment in the Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre and the Strand Rockpool redevelopment.
"These projects are about protecting what makes Townsville such a great place to live, while ensuring our city continues to attract major events and visitors," Cr Dametto said.
"We've been pragmatic about the Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre. We know a full replacement is unlikely, so we're asking for a sensible investment of $130 million to be split between Council, the State and private investment for a refurbishment to modernise the facility.
"Keeping the doors of this facility open is not negotiable. Not only does it support our five-time championship winning team, the Townsville Fire, it also attracts major events and drives economic activity right across the region."
Improving connectivity across the city also remains a focus, including the Ross Creek pedestrian bridge to better link the Stadium precinct to the Strand.
"We want to make Townsville a more connected, accessible city by unlocking the full potential of our waterfront," he said.
Council is also seeking State funding to deliver a boat ramp to enhance recreational use of the Ross Dam in the years to come.
Councillor Dametto said securing funding to unlock further stages of Recreational Use on the Ross Dam would provide an opportunity to create a facility that not only meets growing local demand, but also attracts major events and visitors from afar.
"This is a major outdoor recreational project that can genuinely put Townsville on the map in a way we haven't seen before," he said.
Council is also prioritising investment in grassroots and community infrastructure, including the Murray Sporting Complex and lights and upgrades to the Riverway Stadium and precinct.
"These are important community assets that support participation, active lifestyles and local events across our growing suburbs. As we head towards the 2032 Olympics, it is essential we have the sporting infrastructure to support our next generation of Olympians," he said.
"The Olympics should deliver a lasting legacy for all of Queensland, not just the south-east. Here in Townsville, we're focused on making sure that legacy includes real opportunities for our young people, better infrastructure and a stronger, more liveable city for generations to come.
"In 2032, Townsville will be on the global stage when we host both sailing and football competitions. This makes continued investment across our city crucial but especially for our key attraction, The Strand.
"We know how much the Strand means to our community – the Premier said it himself - it's one of our greatest assets."
Councillor Dametto said he had been working closely Townsville's Government MPs and engaging directly with the Premier and other Ministers to ensure Townsville's priorities remained front and centre.
"The Premier understands North Queensland, and we're backing that understanding to translate into real investment in this budget." he said.
"I believe it's important to engage face to face on this important topic, which is why I've made multiple trips to Brisbane but also hosted various Ministers, including the Treasurer, during their trips to Townsville."
Mayor Dametto said water security remained critical, with the Haughton Pipeline and the Burdekin Pump Station key to supporting future growth.
"I've made sure our local MPs, Premier and other Ministers in Brisbane have been fully briefed on what's needed to complete the Haughton Pipeline Stage 2 and the Burdekin Pump Station.
"I'm calling on the State Government to back North Queensland and deliver the funding our growing city needs in this year's budget."
