Construction of Mackay’s new $20 million sporting precinct is set to begin in August, with detailed project plans now released.
Minister for Regional Development, Fiona Nash, said construction of the new sporting complex would create jobs for the region, with the plans outlining an indoor/outdoor aquatic centre and a new track and field area.
“This new $20 million dollar sporting complex will provide the local community and region with the state-of-the-art facilities,” Minister Nash said.
“I aim to help build the kinds of communities our children and grandchildren either want to stay in or come back to, and fantastic sporting facilities like the Mackay Regional Sports Precinct will help do that.”
Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry,said the new sports precinct will provide modern facilities for children and families to engage in a healthy and active lifestyle.
“For many of us, this is the first time we have seen the project’s detailed plans showcasing Mackay’s vision for the new precinct.
“Large community investments like this are another reminder of the Coalition Government’s strong commitment to both Capricornia and to regional Queensland more broadly,” Ms Landry said.
Mayor of Mackay Regional Council, Greg Williamson, said this is a ‘win-win’ for the community.
“The region will benefit for years to come as the new complex will offer not only modern sporting facilities, but also research capabilities, which will assist our students when completing their university degrees,” Cr Williamson said.
“The Expression of Interest process has recently closed, and council will now start the process of review and assessment of the submissions, with a view to shortlisting appropriately qualified head contractors to move to the next stage of the process.”
The second stage will be tendering the works from which a successful contractor will be selected. The contract is expected to be awarded by August 2017.
This project is jointly funded by the Coalition Government ($10 million), and Mackay Regional Council ($10 million).
The project is expected to be completed in late 2018.