Embarking on a New Era With Port Hinchinbrook (Cardwell Sewerage Treatment Plant) Works Underway

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Great news for Port Hinchinbrook residents with works now underway on the replacement of the Port Hinchinbrook (Cardwell) Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) with construction commencing late August 2023.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Mayor Mark Nolan highlights that the new STP is a result of years of planning and collaboration between all three levels of government to replace a failing facility.  Council extends our appreciation to both the Australian and State Governments for their invaluable contributions. Additionally, we wish to express gratitude to the Honorable Bob Katter MP and Mr Nick Dametto MP for their advocacy and support.

During construction, the current STP will remain functional, ensuring seamless service transition for Port Hinchinbrook residents. This approach will minimise disruption to residents during the transition period.

Mayor Nolan said, “this project is an investment in the long-term resilience and prosperity of Port Hinchinbrook and Cardwell, providing a foundation for sustainable growth and development.

“The contract for the STP project works was awarded in June 2023 and has been awarded to Haslin Constructions. Works are expected to be completed in July 2024, subject to weather and site conditions.”

The normalisation of Port Hinchinbrook is expected to cost $19.3 million, with $17 million allocated towards the total STP project. These works would not have been made possible without the contribution of $12.3 million in funding provided by the Australian and State Governments.

Council has resolved that the $6,945,000 gap would be funded by borrowings and repayments made by those who benefit from the scheme. This project will not be funded by the broader ratepayer base.

Council, together with our State and Federal members have commenced advocating for additional financial contributions, with the aim of reducing the financial impact on Port Hinchinbrook residents and businesses.

Throughout the project, Council will provide updates to the community. Interested community members can register by visiting yoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/port-hinchinbrook.

The STP and normalisation project is funded by the Australian Government, Queensland Government and the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

Quote attributed to Mr Nick Dametto MP

Hinchinbrook MP, Mr Nick Dametto, said he couldn’t be more pleased to see the highly anticipated Cardwell STP reach the construction stage.

“This is an important milestone for not only Port Hinchinbrook residents but also the Cardwell community. This is a win for those residents who have fought hard for the normalisation of Port Hinchinbrook and I commend the Cassowary Coast Regional Council for taking on this challenge. I must acknowledge that without the strong support from the Deputy Premier, Hon. Steven Miles, the Department of State Development, and consecutive Commonwealth Governments, this project wouldn’t have been possible. We have not yet solved all the problems presented to us at Port Hinchinbrook but I think it’s important to reflect during times like these on how far we have come and what’s been achieved.”

 

For further information please contact Council at 1300 763 903 or via email enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au.