LNP pledges $7.6m for Wondai Art Gallery extension and Kingaroy fire station

The Wondai Regional Art Gallery and Kingaroy fire station could be set for significant upgrades, with $7.6 million in funding pledged for both projects.

Deb Frecklington visiting the Kingaroy Fire and Rescue Station.

Two major projects in the South Burnett region have received funding pledges ahead of the upcoming election.

LNP Nanango MP Deb Frecklington announced commitments to extend the Wondai Art Gallery and build a new fire and rescue station in Kingaroy, aiming to improve community services in the region.

The Wondai Art Gallery would receive a $100,000 boost, which would go toward the construction of an undercover area, enhancing accessibility for visitors of all abilities.

“This $100,000 will help make the Wondai Art Gallery more accessible for everyone, improving the arts offering across our region and ensuring all can experience our local art,” Ms Frecklington said.

Elaine Madill and Deb Frecklington at the Wondai Art Gallery.

Wondai Art Gallery president Elaine Madill welcomed the proposed extension, noting it would benefit the entire community.

“Our art gallery is an important part of promoting arts in the South Burnett, and a project like this will ensure our facility continues to meet the diverse needs of the thousands of people who visit each year,” she said.

Meanwhile, Ms Frecklington also announced a commitment to start construction of a new Kingaroy Fire and Rescue Station, allocating $7.5 million to the project.

The current station is ageing and struggles to meet the needs of the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFR) staff.

“The Kingaroy Fire and Rescue Station is an important facility for not only fire safety, but for the critical care provided to the many serious accidents which occur on our busy highways in the South Burnett,” Ms Frecklington said.

Deb Frecklington visiting the Kingaroy Fire and Rescue Station.

“The current station has served us well, but it is now outdated and struggling to meet the needs of the hardworking Queensland Fire and Rescue staff, let alone the capacity needed to house the extra staff coming online as the station transitions to a seven-day permanently crewed station”.

Kingaroy Station Officer Bruce Groer highlighted the importance of the station for both response capabilities and staff safety.

“Improvements to the facilities at the Kingaroy Fire and Rescue Station will be greatly appreciated by all the fire station staff,” Mr Groer said.