Annual report snapshot about more than roads, rubbish and rates

The 148-page report, adopted at an ordinary meeting today, still includes plenty of information on the three Rs.

For example, council disposed of 85,035 tonnes of waste at Hogan’s Pocket landfill, 3497 tonnes more than the previous year – a sign of improved economic activity.

Council also maintained about 2520km of roads during the year, comprising 664km of urban roads and 1856km of rural roads, including 930km of unsealed roads.

But the report also documents many other smaller and varied achievements.

Examples range from welcoming 5010 new libraries members, bringing the total number of active members to 36,694, to an overall attendance of 154,536 at the MECC.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the report was full of interesting snippets of information about council and the types of services and facilities it provided.

“There are details on plenty of major projects, such as delivering the $24 million Mackay Aquatic and Recreation Complex on budget and on time,’’ Cr Williamson said.

“We also started work on the Mackay Waterfront PDA (Priority Development Area), with a $9 million revitalisation of Queens Park under way,’’ he said.

“Another major achievement was the amount of work that went into helping secure Mackay as the second preferred site for a Qantas Pilot Training Academy.”

But Cr Williamson said it was also good to look back on the previous 12 months through the annual report as a reminder of smaller but still significant achievements.

He said much of the work of council had revolved around enhancing the liveability of our region.

“We provided funding support to 38 events and conferences through our Invest Mackay Events and Conference Attraction program, injecting about $27 million into the local economy.

“There was record attendance of more than 50,500 at 2018 Mackay Festival of Arts events.

“We also committed to becoming a signature mountain biking destination, endorsing plans for a world-class mountain bike trail to link Eungella and Finch Hatton.”

Cr Williamson encouraged residents to have a read through the annual report.