Costo pledges new cyclone shelter in Cannonvale

MEMBER for Whitsunday Jason Costigan has pledged to build 15 new cyclone shelters in North and Far North Queensland if re-elected at the end of the year.

As part of his $6 billion Real Royalties for Regions program, Mr Costigan pledged $75 million to new cyclone shelters, one of which would be located in Cannonvale.

Mr Costigan said the funding was reliant upon his re-election as the Member for Whitsunday at the October 31 state election and NQ First securing the balance of power.

“Cyclone season is clearly not over and so it’s timely that I put forward my commitment on behalf of NQ First, which has the wellbeing and safety of the general public at the top of our priorities,” he said.

“Many people are still haunted by cyclones in the north and far north, whether it’s Ada in the Whitsundays, which claimed the lives of 14 people more than 50 years ago, or in more recent times, the likes of Larry, Yasi and Debbie, which also left a trail of destruction.

“It’s important to note these cyclone shelters will be utilised for wider community benefit all year round, as is the case now with existing shelters, but we’ll make damn sure they are available when people need them if an emergency situation arises.”

The Real Royalties for Regions program is NQ First’s signature policy and would be funded with royalties from coal, gas and petroleum mines around Queensland.if Mr Costigan is re-elected.

Source; Whitsunday Times