Treasurer and Minister for Employment and Economic Development
The Honourable Andrew Fraser

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Green Army troops to rejuvenate Bremer River

The Bligh Government today announced funding for a Queensland Green Army mission to revegetate and repair the banks of the Bremer River at Riverview.

Treasurer and Minister for Employment and Economic Development Andrew Fraser said the Salvation Army-run project would employ 16 jobseekers and revitalise the area.

“Queensland’s Green Army is one of the Bligh Government’s responses to the challenges posed by the global recession and was a key election commitment,” Mr Fraser said.

“If we don’t continue to invest in skills development now, we will be caught short when the economy stabilises.

“This $278,080 project is just one of many Green Army projects across the state that will beautify our environment, invest in our fledgling industries and create 3000 jobs.

“It is one of 21 Green Army projects worth almost $5.4 million that have now been approved throughout Queensland.”

Member for Bundamba Jo-Ann Miller said the Bremer River had been identified as a degraded system with little river vegetation and many weeds.

“In some areas, however, the banks are in much better condition as a result of recent initiatives,” Ms Miller said.

“The project will continue on from this great work by revegetating, clearing weeds and stabilising the banks around the 400-acre Salvation Army farm site in Riverview.

“This preservation of the Bremer River shoreline here will help improve the quality of the overall river system.”

Salvation Army training and placement co-ordinator Matthew Alderton said the project would have rolling intakes over 40 weeks to employ jobseekers for 16 weeks each.

“Participants will have the opportunity to undertake work activities such as weeding, native tree planting, shoreline stabilisation, erosion control and general landscaping,” Mr Alderton said.

“All participants will benefit from accredited training in horticulture as well as having the opportunity to earn chainsaw licences, weed spraying tickets and first aid certificates.

“We will also place particular focus on teaching life skills including self-esteem, communication, social skills and work habits.”

Unemployed people can check their eligibility and register their interest in joining Queensland’s Green Army by calling 1800 249 215 or visiting www.greenarmy.qld.gov.au.


Media contacts: Treasurer’s office – 3224 6361 or 3224 5982
                              Salvation Army – 3282 1300
                              Member for Bundamba – 3288 3737

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