Mayor Jack Dempsey has shared a New Year Message, reflecting on the challenges and successes for the Bundaberg Region community throughout 2021.
When we reflect on 2021, there’s no doubt it was a challenging time.
We had the second year of a global pandemic, and I want to thank everyone for your patience, resilience and understanding.
By observing public health restrictions, we had time for vaccines to be developed that now protect us and our loved ones.
There will be challenges ahead but I’m confident 2022 will mark a return to the lifestyle we know and love.
For the Bundaberg Region community, 2021 was a year of development and growth.
We’re in a housing boom and construction activity is creating jobs.
In June, Council made a commitment to build the Bundaberg Regional Aquatic Facility with State Government support.
This significant project will enable future Bundaberg Region Olympians to train right here in Bundaberg.
In October we announced the redevelopment of Anzac Park.
This project will transform our riverfront into an attractive, modern, cultural and recreational area.
It will also ensure we strengthen and protect our proud Anzac legacy at this important location.
The Bundaberg Recreation Precinct upgrade was completed this year, improving facilities at this major venue for large events.
There are water treatment upgrades nearly completed at Gregory River to serve Childers and Woodgate, and in the pipeline at Kalkie for growth in our coastal areas.
Road improvements are motoring ahead, including the Back Windermere Road and Innes Park roundabout.
We also finished the Gin Gin Streetscape, restored natural drainage at Belle Eden, and completed the Boreham Park upgrade.
In 2022, we’ll see work start on implementing the Moore Park Beach master plan, including new premises for the surf livesaving club.
Our community is going ahead in leaps and bounds.
Council is focused on delivering strong environmental and community outcomes for our growing region and local families.
We’re also working with other levels of government to address some of the problems and challenges we face.
These include housing supply, employment and looking after seniors and people with disabilities.
I’d like to thank all the volunteers who serve our community, and care for others and the environment.
I’d also like to thank our frontline health workers and emergency services personnel for keeping us safe.
We appreciate they’re working on holidays and all hours while the rest of us enjoy the festive season.
I urge everyone to stay safe on the roads and water.
We have much to look forward to in 2022 if we look after ourselves and each other.
Happy New Year!
