Community
28 January, 2025
What’s next for resort?
PREPARATIONS to put the remainder of Port Hinchinbrook on the market for redevelopment are underway following the final step in the ‘normalisation’ of the project – the opening of the $19m Port Hinchinbrook sewerage treatment plant last week.
In an answer to a question in parliament by Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto about the future of Port Hinchinbrook, Deputy Premier and State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Industrial Relations Minister Jarrod Bleijie said Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) had investigated a number of options for consideration by the Queensland Government to resolve the existing site conditions that would facilitate the remainder of the Port Hinchinbrook area to be developed.
“EDQ engaged with key stakeholders in late August 2024 following the announcement of additional funding to complete works to the sewer treatment plant at Port Hinchinbrook by the previous administration,” he said. “As discussed at the meeting held on December 12, 2024, the government will review the options provided by EDQ and consider any future activities.”
Mr Dametto’s spokeswoman said the answer referred to a meeting held with the deputy premier in December last year and “we are still waiting to hear anything further”.
“We will be following up with the deputy premier again in February when parliament resumes to hopefully obtain the LNP’s confirmation that they will proceed with the current plan and works that EDQ have commenced,” she said.
A Cassowary Coast Regional Council spokeswoman said the treatment plant “marks (the) council’s final stage in the normalisation process, reflecting ongoing efforts to address the estate’s privately owned infrastructure. These upgrades include roads, culverts, and pump stations”.
“(The) council is currently completing emergency dredging works in Port Hinchinbrook. This project is a significant step forward for our community, enhancing access and usability of the area,” she said.
At the opening, Mr Dametto praised the persistence and hard work of those that made the project a reality, describing it as a major step forward for the region.
Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the opening “is a momentous occasion for the Port Hinchinbrook community.”
“This plant not only safeguards the health and wellbeing of our residents but also supports the continued growth of this iconic destination,” she said.
“We are deeply grateful for the Queensland and Australian governments’ support of our region’s needs.”
