Women’s mental health number one on list

Infrastructure for the setting up of a Women’s Shed in Biggenden was given funding at a Drought Communities Program meeting

A WATER dispenser station, women’s shed infrastructure and Wall of Fame were given the green light at Biggenden’s Drought Communities Program meeting.

The meeting was hosted by North Burnett Regional Council.

Councillor Robbie Radel said the township renewal money would help the economy and drive tourism.

“Plus it’s outside money into the town,” he said.

“Projects won’t be a burden on taxpayers.”

‘The $120,000 has to be spent by June 30 and actioned quickly and not wait 12 months for acquittal.”

Speaking about the suggestion of a water dispenser station from council’s water division, Cr Radel said he would like to see this idea carried out across the whole North Burnett

“A water dispenser station would have water available 24 hours a day,” he said.

“It is presently only available in council opening hours from the stand pipe.

“People could rock up 24 hours a day and get water.”

Cr Radel said the station could be coin or card operated.

“It would benefit those on the land wanting potable water during drought times,” he said.

Another project was the infrastructure for the setting up of a women’s shed.

Di Chambers said the group was now incorporated and had the use of the former preschool building.

“With the present drought conditions, mental health of women on rural properties is a huge problem,” she said.

“A women’s shed will be a safe and friendly environment and bring everyone together.”

The Wall of Fame in Beiers Park to recognise the 4621 postcode of its early settlers will be fully funded.

Cr Radel said Moira Thompson was the driving force behind the project.

“It is fully priced and ready to go,” he said.

“It’s a really good project for Beiers Park which is an integral part of our town.”

Biggenden Chamber of Commerce’s Stephanie Whitaker told the gathering the chamber was presently working on a concept to upgrade the main street

“Full and proper consultation will be undertaken with the community,” she said.

“The proposed designs are only weeks away.”

Brian Ledwidge raised the present condition of Lions Park.

“All the trees have been removed as they were deemed dangerous,” he said.

“There is no shade for the tourists who use the park regularly.

“The drainage is so shocking you could presently grow rice down there.”

Cr Radel said shade cover over the playground was in the pipeline plus trees would be planted but that wouldn’t fix the shade problem immediately.

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