SOMERSET Regional Council is calling on the State Government to invest in Wivenhoe Dam to see the facility opened to broader recreational, sporting and tourism opportunities particularly ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt said the Somerset community needs a State Government who will listen and act on the concerns of regional communities.

Late last month Council launched its 2024 State Government Advocacy Plan, ahead of the October elections, calling on the State Government to address six key challenges impacting the Somerset region.

Making Wivenhoe Dam more accessible for recreational and sporting opportunities and investing in this asset ranked the second on Council’s advocacy list behind upgrades to the notorious Brisbane Valley Highway.

“Lake Wivenhoe is a major community asset for South East Queensland with an inadequate investment in complementary recreational and sporting opportunities,” Cr Wendt said.

“This investment is critical ahead of the Olympics and activating this dam, which is managed by Seqwater, is crucial for growth and driving visitation to Somerset.

“That’s the very reason we’re calling on the State Government to review and invest in strategic recreational, sporting and tourism opportunities at Lake Wivenhoe.”

Cr Wendt said Somerset needs a State Government who will invest in the region.

“We need a State Government who will commit to making changes for a stronger future that prioritises our community,” he said.

“It’s time the State Government listened.”

To find out more about the State Government Election Advocacy Roadmap Plan 2024 visit somerset.qld.gov.au/advocacy

Somerset Regional Council is calling on the State Government to invest in Wivenhoe Dam to see the facility opened to broader recreational, sporting and tourism opportunities particularly ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.