Prime Minister officially opens Riverside Revitalisation Project
Published: 22 Apr 2024
Mackay's Riverside Revitalisation Project has Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s seal of approval.
The Prime Minister visited Mackay this morning to join Mayor Greg Williamson, Councillors, council CEO Scott Owen and other key stakeholders for an official opening.
The Riverside Revitalisation Project includes the recently completed Pioneer River Pontoon at Bluewater Quay and the nearby River Wharves public area.
The opening included a ribbon cutting at the pontoon, where a Wildcat boat was moored, and a tour of River Wharves.
“I am delighted to be in Mackay to open this important revitalisation of the riverside,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
“Parents with their kids, locals enjoying their beautiful river and tourists visiting this great part of the world will benefit from this revitalisation for so many years to come,’’ the Prime Minister said.
Mayor Greg Williamson said it was fantastic to have the Prime Minister involved in the official opening of these two projects.
The Riverside Revitalisation Project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.
Mayor Williamson said both projects provided improved public access to the wonderful Pioneer River and were part of the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area (PDA).
“These projects will be catalysts for future project, including private investment, along the riverfront,’’ he said.
“For example, Renew Mackay has recently unveiled plans for a major commercial and residential development on the Brisbane Street car park site adjacent to Bluewater Quay.
“The council-owned 8 River Street building is also currently being demolished. It will be a prime site for redevelopment and in the interim will be able to also be activated for the community.”
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the Mackay Riverside Revitalisation was a great example of the Australian Government working in partnership to deliver critical local community infrastructure.
“This facility provides a new leisure, commercial and tourism offering to support the Mackay Waterfront project and bring fresh life to a former industrial precinct.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese officially opens Riverside Revitalisation Project with Senator for Queensland Nita Green, Mayor Greg Williamson and CEO Scott Owen.