Positive Steps in the Budget but Dametto Pushes for More

Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto reviewing the 2025-26 State Budget.

27 June 2025

The 2025-26 State Budget has delivered some welcome progress for the Hinchinbrook electorate, with practical funding outcomes for several projects.

In the LNP’s first budget since taking office, there was a big focus on the delivery of election commitments. The Brisbane Olympics, First Home Buyers and those who rely on the State’s Health Service were the biggest winners out of this year’s budget while crime prevention and policing also received a boost.

Hinchinbrook MP and Katter’s Australian Party Deputy Leader, Nick Dametto said he was pleased to see the Hinchinbrook Shire Council secure funding through the Works for Queensland Program for:

• $200,000 to install shade cover at the Taylors Beach playground.
• $200,000 to extend the Forrest Beach foreshore walking trail.
• $50,000 for planning and design work at Borello Park in Lucinda.

“The Ingham Tennis Club has also secured $973,000 for Stage One of their court refurbishment which is great to see for this hard-working local club,” Mr Dametto said.

“I’m also optimistic about the future of Port Hinchinbrook, with a line item confirming centrally held funds are being made available once the Government and Economic Development Queensland are able to work through a long-term solution for the marina site.

“After speaking directly with the Deputy Premier, I believe we’re finally heading in the right direction to fix the dredging and other issues at Port Hinchinbrook once and for all.

“Although we didn’t see funding this time around for the Dungeness dredging and rock wall project, or the much-needed relocation of the Cassady Creek boat ramp, I’ll continue to work closely with council and all levels of government to get these off the ground with other funding opportunities.

“One omission from the budget was the badly needed Woolcock Street upgrade through Townsville’s northern suburbs.

“In my view, the State Government has failed to recognise that progressing this road project, alongside essential trunk infrastructure, would have helped unlock up to 6,000 housing blocks in the city’s north.

“Townsville only continues to grow and this project would help ease the housing crisis and reduce congestion on one of the busiest arterial roads.

“I am committed to pushing for what matters to Hinchinbrook and will continue to work with the State Government and our local councils to see that our region gets its fair share.”

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