Steady Progress in 2025 positions Livingstone for a Year of Delivery

Published on 08 January 2026

Livingstone Shire Council has continued to advance practical, community-focused projects throughout 2025, laying the foundations for a strong year of delivery in 2026.

Mayor Adam Belot said the past year was about staying focused on works that strengthen liveability, support wellbeing, and plan responsibly for the future.

“Throughout 2025, Council concentrated on getting important projects moving and laying solid groundwork and that puts us in a strong position as we move into a major delivery phase,” Mayor Belot said.

Construction at the Capricorn Coast Brian Dorey OAM Aquatic Centre has advanced significantly during the year, with works now in their final stages.

“It’s great to see this long-anticipated facility nearing completion, and we can’t wait to officially open it up to the community,” Mayor Belot said.

On Great Keppel Island, construction started on the new wastewater treatment plant, while the Arrivals Plaza is moving to construction, with completion set for later this year. Wayfinding and interpretive signage were installed in December, and funding was secured to progress a business case and detailed design for coastal erosion solutions at Fisherman’s and Putney Beaches.

“On the island, these projects are about securing a sustainable future for residents, visitors, and businesses,” Mayor Belot said.

Several key infrastructure projects were completed in 2025, including the Emu Park Sewage Treatment Plant upgrade, Greenlake and Artillery Road upgrades, the Emu Park Transfer Station upgrade, the new Rockyview playground, and multiple rural bridge replacements.

“These are practical investments that improve safety, services, and day-to-day life across the Shire,” Mayor Belot said.

Looking ahead, 2026 will see many more projects move from groundwork to delivery, including underground services and road works on Normanby Street, Stage 4 of The Gateway Business & Industry Park, and the next stage of Matthew Flinders Drive.

“These projects support local jobs, investment, and safer, more connected communities,” Mayor Belot said.

“Blueprint Livingstone will also be a major focus as we continue driving transformational initiatives across the Shire,” he said.

“We’re already seeing positive outcomes from the Temporary Local Planning Instrument (TLPI), with strong developer interest at Kinka Beach and further applications anticipated at Hidden Valley.

“Council is also preparing for the next round of applications for the Queensland Government’s the Residential Activation Fund. This is about unlocking housing, supporting growth, and ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with community needs.

“Last year we were successful with Round 1 securing $25 million for stage 1 of the East-West Connector which will move into the construction phase later this year with the extension of Pineapple Drive.”

In 2025, Council also continued investing in the social heart of the Shire.

“Our free community events, activations, and school holiday programs brought people together, while more than $370,000 in grants supported community groups, sporting clubs, artists, and events for residents of all ages,” Mayor Belot said.

Reflecting on the recent Community Views Survey, Mayor Belot said residents’ feedback remains central to Council’s decision-making.

“The survey results show us what matters most to our community, from liveability and safety to connected neighbourhoods, and that continues to guide our priorities and projects,” he said.

Accessibility improvements across the Shire will remain a focus for Council in 2026

“Accessibility isn’t about one big project — it’s about lots of small, thoughtful improvements, and this year we will continue to deliver accessible pathways and parking, improved beach accesses, safer pedestrian connections, and targeted upgrades through our Minor Accessibility Works Program.” he said.

Mayor Belot said Council is entering its next phase with clarity and continuity, focused on delivering the outcomes it has been planning for.

“This year will be a busy one, and with several major projects coming to fruition, it’s very pleasing to see those plans turn into action.

“Finally, I’d like to thank our community! Your involvement continues to guide our priorities and together, we’re building a strong, inclusive and resilient Livingstone Shire and 2026 is where many of the things we’ve been working toward will really come to life.”