Who’s Who in 22, Government Gurus: Cath Tonks

This year, Moreton Bay Regional Councillor Cath Tonks has delivered funding for environmental initiatives, road upgrades, infrastructure improvements and better amenities in Division 9.

Council’s 2022/23 Budget included significant funding for more trees, habitat, and environmental protections which aim to deliver better wildlife links.

Cr Tonks said Council’s ‘Going Green as We Grow’ mantra was in direct response to feedback from locals and would deliver critical road upgrades with wildlife fencing.

Wildlife protection and tree planting are elements of a $1 million road upgrade at the Leitchs Rd crossing of Conflagration Creek, Brendale, designed to improve pedestrian safety and remove a traffic pinch-point.

Council is continuing the work on fauna crossings it started in Division 9 this financial year, with another $610,000 in 2022-23 for koala-proof fencing, rope bridges, and ledges on Samsonvale Rd, Joyner, in partnership with the Federal Government.

It will spend $100,000 on tree planting, fencing and fauna escape poles for Edward D Allison Park, Eatons Hill, as part of a bigger $400,000 project.

The Budget also included $250,000 in pathways, fitness equipment, seating and tree planting as part of a second stage of upgrades at Frank Nichols Park, Warner, as well $120,000 for a picnic shelter and play equipment at Chandler Reserve, Joyner.

Council is creating public spaces for residents at Albany Creek, with $422,000 to acquire land for Albany Creek Civic District Park next to the civic centre.

A combined total of more than $1 million is being invested in projects along Kremzow Rd, at Girrah St in Brendale, Gordons Crossing Rd East and Regent St at Joyner, Saraband Drive at Eatons Hill and Maud St at Albany Creek.

The Budget also included $16.6 million for work on sporting fields, a clubhouse, landscaping, road upgrades, car parking and stormwater drainage at South Pine Sporting Complex, Brendale.

About Cath Tonks

Cath Tonks was elected to Moreton Bay Regional Council in 2020, defeating long-time sitting councillor Mike Charlton.

She worked in Federal Minister for Dickson Peter Dutton’s office before running for council and took leave from her job during the campaign.

She has always lived in the Moreton Bay Region, having grown up in Strathpine and is now raising her three children at Eatons Hill.

Cr Tonks has previously been involved with school boards, ran book clubs, fundraising events and volunteered with local organisations including Pine Rivers Koala Care.

She ran on a platform of protecting green spaces, native wildlife and nature corridors, providing more community events, improving park facilities including exercise equipment, and improving local roads and providing better public transport options.