2007 Press Release

New Fuel Bowser and RTC for Boigu Island

25/07/2007

Economic and social activity on Torres Strait’s Boigu Island is about to be boosted with the opening of a new fuel bowser facility and Rural Transaction Centre today.

 Torres Strait Regional Authority’s (TSRA) Chairperson Mr Toshie Kris, who is amongst the guests visiting the island for the celebrations said these recently completed projects were another good example of government working together with communities to deliver tangible outcomes.

“By working closely with the Australian and Queensland Government, Boigu Island Council secured financial support and oversaw the delivery and establishment of two new services for its community,” Mr Kris said.

“TSRA was pleased to provide a grant of $220,000 to assist the Council to obtain a safe, secure and reliable fuel bowser facility, which allows community members to access fuel by use of prepaid and rechargeable swipe-cards.

“This innovative facility can store up to 5000 litres of unleaded petrol and 2000 litres of diesel at a time, providing a service that is essential the community’s way of life and is a safer alternative than siphoning fuel from drums.

“Also opening today is a $390,000 Rural Transaction Centre, funded by the Australian Government Department of Transport and Regional Services, Island Watch and the Scully Foundation, with in-kind support from Boigu Island Council.

“It contains a library, internet and video conferencing facilities, Broadcasting for Remote Aboriginal Communities Scheme (BRACS) Unit, post and Centrelink offices.

“The fuel facility was funded through the TSRA’s Community Economic Initiatives Scheme (CEIS), which aims to contribute directly to the economic growth of our region by assisting communities to develop income generating projects that result in social, cultural and economic benefits.

“By delivering programs like the CEIS, the TSRA is working with other government agencies and our communities to improve quality of life outcomes for the people of this region.

“I would like to congratulate Boigu Island Council for its commitment towards improving the quality of life for its residents, and I would like to acknowledge the support of all agencies and organisations involved in delivering these projects,” said Mr Kris.

ENDS

TSRA Media Contact: Susan Reilly Ph: 07 4069 0700.