Div 8: Keeping communities connected as population grows

Published 16 June 2023

Community connection, active lifestyles and infrastructure are the priorities for Division 8 in Budget 2023-24.

“Community is at the heart of what I do each day and in this, my 30^th budget for the local area, I have once again listened to residents and made a commitment to deliver on important infrastructure that will make people’s lives easier and be of benefit for generations to come,” Cr Gillam said.

“This Budget is about making life easier for you - less congestion, smoother roads, better parks and improved sports grounds, right on your doorstep for all to enjoy.
“Planning and design for the new Youngs Crossing Bridge, a key stage in one of our region’s largest infrastructure projects, is now complete. Confirmation of State Government funding for this crucial project will ensure construction of the associated roadway is above flood level and will keep traffic moving regardless of the weather.
We’ll also be investing $3.8 million to upgrade the Sparkes Road/Ellis Street intersection in Lawnton and also progress road rehabilitation at Mott Street, Strathpine.  
“I’m also happy to announce that an investment of $860,000 in construction works for Pine Rivers Park Road will make circulation and parking much easier for people attending events.
“Plus there’s a massive $3.8 million for road resurfacing across Division 8 to ensure safer roads.

“We’ve also invested $850,000 for pathways to improve pedestrian connectivity and encourage more walking and cycling in the area that will ease traffic congestion. This includes a $112,500 renewal of the Kensington Way Pedestrian Bridge at Bray Park.
“A $110,000 investment in the Strathpine East Pathway Network will see the existing pathway in Norman Reilly Park link up with McConnell Esplanade Park and Grahams Road Environmental Reserve, also connecting the existing network on Monroe Crescent and Grahams Road. This will also include the construction of a footbridge spanning Coulthards Creek.
“Our solid investment in parks and sporting infrastructure supports Council’s goal for healthy and active living.
“This year, we’ll construct new amenities block at Alf Shaw Park, and planning works will begin design work for a new netball facility at Les Hughes Sports Complex. Plus, we’ve committed $1 million to upgrade the Rob Akers Reserve Sporting Facility at Strathpine, $65,000 to deliver on picnic facilities for Waratah Park, $60,000 for shelter construction at Peter Curtin Park and will spend $2.5 million dollars in the next two years creating a Bray Park District Park.
In the 2023-24 Budget, Council’s support continues for our important family-friendly events including the Teddy Bears Picnic, Splash and Play and the Pine Rivers Christmas Carols.
Council is committed to giving the community opportunities to participate in and celebrate different life experiences and cultures. I am proud to announce the return of Moreton Bay Pride Festival following the recent success of this inaugural event.
With our pets playing such a key part in resident’s lives, we’ll also be investing $80,000 in a small dog off leash area for Mungarra Reserve, Petrie.
Budget 23-24 builds on Council’s commitment to deliver on Moreton Bay’s enviable reputation for a relaxed lifestyle, opportunities for community connection and active lifestyles while also planning for growth in the region.

Budget Highlights for Division 8

• $3.8 million for intersection upgrade at Sparkes Road/Ellis Street, Lawnton
• $1 million for an upgrade to Rob Akers Reserve, Strathpine
• $1 million for construction for Bray Park District Recreation
• $860,000 for road design and construction for Pine Rivers Park, Strathpine
• $250,000 for road rehabilitation at Mott Street, Strathpine
• $250,000 for construction of new public facilities at Alf Shaw Park
• $200,000 for design of a netball building upgrade at Les Hughes Sports Complex
• $112,500 for pedestrian bridge renewal at Kensington Way
• $110,000 for pathway network design at Strathpine East
• $100,000 for footpath renewal on Andrew Petrie Drive
• $96,000 for pathway links at Tolosa Street, Bray Park
• $84,000 for pathway link at Woodlands Avenue, Petrie
• $80,000 for a small dog off leash area at Mungarra Reserve, Petrie
• $75,000 for pathway construction at Lorraine Court, Lawnton
• $65,000 for picnic infrastructure at Waratah Par, Petrie
• $60,000 for shade installation at Les Hughes Sporting Complex (baseball precinct), Bray Park

Video transcript