EMERGENCY workers and their families may be more inclined to relocate to remote communities following a multi-million dollar boost to Bowen Basin emergency services facilities. The $10 million package, that is aimed at supporting future growthin the area, was announced by Premier Anna Bligh on Tuesday as part of the government’s regionalisation plans.
Fire and ambulance services reaped the major benefits of the funding package. The Queensland Ambulance Service received a $2.9 million funding injection to purchase or build staff housing at Glenden, Carmila, Moranbah and Dysart. Central Region Assistant Commissioner Peter Warrener said he was supportive of the state government’s decision to inject funds into thearea.
“What it really does for us … providing housing is a very, very good strategy for our recruitment,” Mr Warrener said. “It encourages officers to work in these areas and assists the Queensland Ambulance Service to continue to provide a high level of service to those communities.” The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) received $4.22 million to upgrade its facilities.
As part of the QFRS funding, land will be purchased and a new station constructed to replace the existing Clermont station. Emerald will also receive a new station on a new site out of the central business district. And a fire fighting training facility will be built alongside the existing fire station at Dysart that, because of its central location, will be utilised be staff from several surrounding stations.
Three million dollars was also allocated to build the Moranbah Youth Centre that will provide a safe and suitable location for the provision of youth services, activities and programs. Minister for Emergency Services Neil Roberts said the housing for ambulance officers would provide significant incentives for officers and their families to move to regional towns.
“New fire stations in Emerald and Clermont will enhance the working environment for fire and rescue personnel, and will also enhance the delivery of fire safety,” Mr Roberts said. Providing housing is a very, very good strategy for our recruitment.
