Wish list of Mornington Island projects revealed

An embattled Gulf island is growing faster than other remote communities but lacks facilities for social and health outcomes.

A swimming pool, youth hub and a realignment of the airport’s runway are among a raft of projects and initiatives being proposed by the Mornington Shire Council to help improve social and health outcomes in the remote community.

According to data compiled by the council, Mornington Island’s population is projected to grow from 1231 to 1403 people by 2041 – which is in comparison to negative growth that Richmond, Hughenden, Julia Creek and Longreach are expecting over that period.

Meanwhile those regions with decreasing populations are expecting to receive larger per-capita government grants – with Mornington to receive the equivalent of $2052 per person during the current financial year.

Mornington Island’s oldest resident, Elder Roberta Felton, 90, with two of the youngest: Lilila Yanner, 5, and a days-old joey. Picture: Brian Cassey

This compares with $4378 in Hughenden, $5843 in Julia Creek and $3684 in Richmond.

Mayor Kyle Yanner said it was unfair, while insisting there was nothing for youths to do on the island.

“We’re growing … but we have nothing to grow into,” he said.

Council has identified five key projects, including an outstation multipurpose facility and a 25m swimming pool to provide a safe place for kids to learn how to swim.

A market garden has also been proposed which is being considered by the state and federal governments.

The projects are all at varying levels of development.

Elder Robyrta Felton, who is the oldest woman on the island, said a market garden was very important.

The 90-year-old said she depended on frozen vegetables from the local grocery store.

Asked what advice she had for young people to live a healthy life, she said it was important people ate well, be surrounded by seafood, respect their bodies and learn how to cook traditionally.

Originally published as Wish list of Mornington Island projects revealed