Local residents and visitors to Mission Beach can look forward to a brand new pool if Member for Hinchinbrook Andrew Cripps and the LNP is re-elected on 31 January 2015.

Mr Cripps said the LNP had a strong plan to support grassroots sport and recreation by assisting local clubs and communities and helping to lower the cost of participation.

“If re-elected, I will be guaranteeing $1.5 million dollars towards the $4 million aquatic facility project proposed by the Cassowary Coast Regional Council,” said Mr Cripps.

“The pool is proposed to be located at the MARCS Park’s precinct, just a few kilometres from both Mission Beach and Wongaling Beach, which is a hub for the community.

“The Council’s proposed aquatic centre will include a 25 metre lap pool, leisure and splash area, administration and facilities block, a kiosk and a heated hydrotherapy pool” he said.

“A vote for the LNP in the Hinchinbrook electorate will guarantee at least 1.5 million for this project, but the LNP is listening to local business and tourism groups as well”.

“The Premier himself, following the Community Cabinet meeting in Tully and Mission Beach in early 2014, has indicated that he is enthusiastic about supporting this project”.

“While the pledged funding is for the proposal submitted by Council, the LNP would consider an additional contribution for an aquatic facility at a foreshore location”.

“Such a request would need to be accompanied by a detailed business case– but we are willing to consider additional funding for an alternative site to support tourism”.

“I’m really excited about this project because Mission Beach has been waiting for a long time to secure a public pool and the demonstrated need can’t be argued with”.

Recreation and Sports Minister Steve Dickson said the Newman Government had already delivered significant support for Hinchinbrook under the flagship Get in the Game initiative.

“Our strong plan has already helped 25 clubs with activities to increase participation, approved 7 facilities projects, and is joining with council to deliver a major infrastructure project under Get in the Game,” he said.