News
31 August, 2025
Kilcoy streetscape upgrade
KILCOY is set to be revitalised, with $550,000 in funding secured from Queensland Hydro’s Community Benefits Program to support the Kilcoy Streetscape Revitalisation Master Plan in 2025–2026.
The funding will allow Somerset Regional Council to deliver the Eastern Gateway and Town Entry upgrade projects, designed to create a welcoming sense of arrival and enhance the identity and character of the township.
The investment is expected to help transform the town’s identity, character and quality, providing business and tourism opportunities while leaving a lasting positive legacy for the Somerset community.
Council’s Kilcoy Streetscape Advisory Committee attended the funding announcement to discuss the projects with Council and Queensland Hydro representatives.
Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt said Council is incredibly grateful to Queensland Hydro for their support, as the Kilcoy Streetscape Revitalisation Master Plan is only possible with funding commitments.
“We’re proud to partner with Queensland Hydro to deliver this major project,” he said.
“Kilcoy is a great place to visit and won bronze in the Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s 2025 Top Tourism Town Awards for Top Small Town.
“This streetscape project is about making Kilcoy an even more attractive place to visit and giving people more reasons to stop, stay and enjoy this gem of a town.”
Cr Wendt added upgrading the town entry is an important step in “forging and transforming” the identity and character of Kilcoy.
“This upgrade is just one component in the master plan. Moving forward, we will be seeking funding to complete concept designs for the town centre to provide shady, green and safe connections designed with the community in mind,” he said.
“We’re so excited to see this project take a major step forward with thanks to Queensland Hydro.”
The announcement is the latest update from Queensland Hydro’s Community Benefits Program, designed to deliver positive outcomes for communities around the proposed Borumba Pumped Hydro Project through targeted funding of strategic initiatives.
Interim CEO of Queensland Hydro, Mark Irwin, said Queensland Hydro recognise Somerset and the Kilcoy community as “vital stakeholders” in the proposed Borumba Pumped Hydro Project.
“Queensland Hydro’s Community Benefits funding demonstrates the importance we place on working in close partnership with local communities to deliver local benefits,” he said.
In addition to streetscape funding, community groups across the region can apply for Queensland Hydro’s Community Grants Program, which has already distributed more than $100,000, including funding for first aid training through the Jimna Community Development Association.
For information about the Community Grants Program visit: https://qldhydro.com.au/community/community-benefits-program/
