New ablutions block a revolution for Goomeri Showgrounds

October 13, 2021

A new shower and toilet block at Goomeri Showgrounds will create local jobs and provide an amenities facility that can be used by the community and visitors for decades to come, Federal Member for Wide Bay and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Llew O’Brien announced today.

The Goomeri and District Show Society will receive $93,500 towards its $187,000 new toilet and shower facilities with up to 24 stalls and six showers, through Round 5 of the Coalition Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.

“Goomeri Showgrounds are used for large-scale events like the annual Pumpkin Festival, rodeos, the local agricultural show and horse and cattle events, as well being a popular camping spot, so this funding will ensure the new amenities block will meet the needs of all users,” Mr O’Brien said.

“In addition to making the Showgrounds more comfortable and accessible for visitors, supporting local tourism and accommodation providers, the project will also create up to 15 jobs throughout the construction phase.

“This is another example of the Liberal and Nationals Government helping to deliver the services and infrastructure our communities deserve, so local people have the facilities for the future, while creating jobs to boost our economic recovery.

“I thank the committee for making the application and everyone who has worked to raise the matching funds that will be reinvested in this project in Goomeri.”

Goomeri and District Show Society president David Pitstock said the project would replace a 35-year-old portable ablutions block that had been in place since the Commonwealth Games.

“Having new toilets and showers will make a real difference to the town for local events, and also for visitors using the site for camping and caravanning,” Mr Pitstock said.

“It will be fantastic to make the Showgrounds a more inviting spot for people to stop, and will have benefits for the town too by supporting tourism.”

Under Round 5 of the BBRF, the Government has committed almost $300 million to support 295 projects across regional Australia, which will create an estimated 9,900 jobs during the project period.

This latest funding round takes total support through the BBRF to $1.38 billion across nearly 1,300 projects.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the Government is focused on ensuring our regions remain strong.

“The Liberal and Nationals Government is continuing to work hard on behalf of Australians living in regional and remote communities,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“That’s why we’ve committed an additional $100 million under this latest round to take total funding to almost $300 million. This extra funding will support more projects, more jobs and create more economic opportunities in our regions to boost their recovery from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Funding for these projects in Wide Bay is a testament to the dedication of Llew O’Brien.

“Funding under the Building Better Regions Fund supports economic and social infrastructure for the long-term benefit of regional communities.

“Infrastructure upgrades funded in this latest round will ensure our regions remain great places to live and visit, while helping support important regional industries which create jobs.

“Our Government is committed to delivering the best outcomes for regional and remote Australia, which is why we are providing local businesses, industries and families with opportunities to get ahead.”

For a full list of successful projects in Round 5, please visit: www.business.gov.au/bbrf

WELCOME TO WIDE BAY

In the spirit of Australia, I acknowledge all citizens who contribute to making our nation the greatest on earth.

I acknowledge our defence force personnel, past, present, and emerging, for their service to our nation, and particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of Australia.

I also acknowledge the Australian taxpayers who, through their hard work, pay for the infrastructure, health, education, and emergency services that keep our proud nation healthy, safe, and prosperous.