Senator Barnaby Joyce recently visited Rockhampton, Yeppoon and the Capricorn Coast region to gain a better understanding of the future developmental needs the area may face.

Of special interest was the proposed Fitzroy Water Pipeline project being pursued by the Livingstone Shire Council.

“This project, with a price tag of approximately $50 million, is absolutely essential for the future development of the Cap Coast,” Senator Joyce said.

“With figures like 3.5% annual growth and an estimated population of 56,000 by 2025, it is absolutely imperative all measures necessary to foster such upward movement be implemented,” he said.

As council has undertaken extensive research, environmental impact studies and widespread community consultation, the next step is to secure the funding.

“I will certainly be lobbying my colleagues in Canberra to ensure the progress of this project. Once I have finished there I will be off to Brisbane to push this Labor Government. Beattie has dropped the ball in terms of water infrastructure and the time has come for his Government to deliver for the people of Rockhampton and the Cap Coast,” said Senator Joyce.

“The Queensland Nationals have long held the view that projects such as the Fitzroy Water Pipeline enhance the decentralisation of our great state and ensure the delivery of frontline government services take a state wide approach, not a South East Corner approach,” Senator Joyce said.

The Queensland Nationals will continue to work closely with the Livingstone Shire Council to ensure a positive outcome is reached for the people of Central Queensland.