JULY 26, 2017: NO-ONE pulled any punches at a teleconference which was held today with Federal Minister for Justice Michael Keenan in relation to concerns over Category D NDRRA funding approvals.It was a frank and fearless discussion as it had to be because we are talking about funding to assist the community in recovering from a natural disaster.Both Mayor Andrew Willcox and Mayor Greg Williamson did a fantastic job in ferociously advocating for the region.While there was a lot of disagreement around specific statements that were being made, a way forward was mapped out.The Federal Government has unanswered questions about a number of projects that were rejected for funding.Minister Keenan is going to write to the State Government with all questions that need answering and a copy of those questions will also be provided to me. I intend to get those questions to the local councils as well, so that they know in advance what they will need to supply to the State Government.I will also pass on responses provided by these councils directly to the Federal Government, however formally, under the terms of the NDRRA process, the information needs to be provided by the State Government.I will be writing to Mr Keenan immediately to request the following;

• That this process now be expedited so that these matters can be resolved as soon as possible
• That the Federal Government review its decision to provide only $20 million instead of the requested $30 million for the Resilient Infrastructure (Betterment) package component of the funding
• That the decision surrounding the Shute Harbour Marina Revitalisation Project be reviewed and the full required amount for funding be approved
• That the decision around the Airlie Beach Foreshore Revitalisation Project be reviewed and the full required amount be approved
• That the decision regarding the Mackay Bluewater Trail be reviewed and the full required funding be approved

It’s to be noted that the Shute Harbour Marina Project, the Airlie Beach Foreshore Revitalisation Project and the Mackay Bluewater Trail are not new projects; they are existing assets that were damaged in the cyclone and should be improved when repair is undertaken.I also note that due to other funding sources becoming available on both the Shute Harbour Marina and Airlie Beach Foreshore Revitalisation, the quantum of funding needed for these projects is less that what was originally requested.We are also awaiting confirmation from the State Government that repairs to the Don River in Bowen will be eligible for funding through the $15 million Environmental Recovery Package component of Category D funding.In relation to the Whitsunday Coast Airport Upgrade, I will be going in to bat for the $10m funding application for this project which has been submitted under the Building Better Regions Fund. From my point of view, this application must be approved.