WORK to expand Biloela’s Industrial Estate continues with Stage 3A of the Raedon Street development completed.

This latest $1.93 million project included significant earthworks, drainage structures and sewer installation and provides access off Raedon Street to an additional 11 industrial lots.

The project was jointly funded by the Australian Government’s Regional Jobs and Investment Packages program ($700,000), the State Government’s Works For Queensland program ($540,000) and Banana Shire Council ($723,000).

Banana Shire Mayor Nev Ferrier said the completed work opens up the expansion of the Raedon Street Industrial Estate for new industries to commence or existing businesses to expand or relocate.

“Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the industrial estate are almost at capacity and we have interest in land in the estate which has prompted Council to plan for Stage 3 and 4 of the complex,” Cr Ferrier said.

“Thanks to the funding we received from the Federal and State Governments Council was able to complete Stage 3A and Council is now planning and lobbying for funding to complete Stage 3B.

“Without the support of both governments, Council would not have been in a position to move forward with this project in such a timely manner.”

 Cr Ferrier said by providing industrial land in Raedon Street, Council was catering for the future growth of resource support industries, new technology-based industries and potential expansion of agricultural production.

“Interest in this land has been strong and includes new manufacturing/processing businesses, existing established local operators looking to expand and emerging recycling opportunities.

“It is possible that an additional 190 jobs could be created by these interested parties and would further shore up our diverse economic base.”