OAKEY is set to receive a $1 million boost to restore the Darling Downs town’s reputation as a “great place to work and live”.
LNP deputy leader Deb Frecklington said the funds would be delivered in consultation with local businesses and residents.
Oakey has been rocked by revelations that some underground water supplies have been contaminated by firefighting foam, containing toxic PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate) chemicals.
Some 450 residents are part of the class action against the Department of Defence following use of the firefighting foam at the Army Aviation Centre Oakey.
The affected bores have since been capped and water piped to households which previously relied on groundwater as a drinking supply.
“The Oakey community has been hit hard by land contamination issues with Department of Defense facilities,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“The LNP will stand up for Oakey and make compensation and greater local assistance from the federal government a priority.
“In addition the LNP will provide $1 million for a targeted fund to promote Oakey. This will deliver real and practical assistance for the local community that is driven by locals.
“Not only will this bring social benefits to the community, it will provide local jobs.”
Oakey Chamber of Commerce president and lifelong resident Andrew Langton said Oakey was a great place to work, live and invest.
“Only a small section of the town was affected,” Mr Langton said.
“The $1m package will help restore the reputation of Oakey and help show what this terrific community has to offer.”
Mr Langton the current 4500 population of Oakey was expected to double in the next 10 years, driven by the town’s proximity to industry including New Acland coal mine and the Wellcamp airport.
Likely projects included a new information centre, he said.