AS we await the 2024-25 federal budget, treasurer Jim Chalmers has been made profoundly aware of some of the items I, and the Forde community, would wish to see funded.
I made sure to get my wish list in early, drawing treasurer Chalmers’ attention to a dozen specific projects.
I’ve of course sought funding for some priority road developments.
Upgrade of Exit 38 interchange is in there, as well as the duplication of Beenleigh-Redland Bay Road and additional lanes and upgrades from Chambers Flat Road to Greenbank Road, along the Mt Lindesay Highway.
I’m always eager to see improvements in local sport, which is why I’ve sought funding for Beenleigh Netball site redevelopment, Beenleigh Baseball site redevelopment, Ormeau Bulldogs field and carpark lighting, upgrades at Hammel Park for Beenleigh Rugby League and Beenleigh Tennis Centre upgrades.
The Phoenix Ensemble also put their case to me, which I was only too happy to support, for upgrades to their community theatre.
With the youth crime crisis only intensifying, I have given support to a submission from Logan City Council to install 120 new security cameras around the area.
These, and many other worthwhile projects, would significantly improve local infrastructure, provide continuation and expansion of vital services across the region and support grass roots organisations to help build a stronger and more resilient community.
In addition to these, I gave my backing to Stride Mental Health’s pre- budget submission, which will ensure that provision of vital mental health services continues to grow, including a full-service Headspace in Beenleigh.
I paid a visit to Headspace in Meadowbrook on May 9 and saw first-hand the incredible work they’re doing, but also heard about the struggles they face.
I have the utmost respect and gratitude for the work of people in the mental health sector.
The team in Meadowbrook continue to do an exceptional job in these trying times when cost of living pressures and daily life pressures are increasing.
Whether the Albanese labor government see the merit in the proposals is anyone’s guess, but if the Forde electorate is overlooked again, I will hold them to account.
