Construction of the Bundaberg Recreational Precinct is well under way, with the multi-million dollar upgrade set to feature a pedestrian-friendly avenue and new space for the region's upcoming events.
The Bundaberg Regional Council project has been made possible through Works For Queensland Funding, with the State Government contributing $1.5 million towards its completion.
Council's Sport and Recreation portfolio spokesperson Vince Habermann said the facility had been overdue for an upgrade.
“The precinct is a popular venue for large events including the Bundaberg Show, Agrotrend, Carols by Candlelight, canine and equestrian uses,” Cr Habermann said.
“A master plan completed early last year suggested improvements including an entry statement, flexible event spaces, expanded accommodation and landscaping.”
Cr Habermann said work was well underway, with the first stage to include a new administration building with ticket booths, meeting rooms for events and community organisations, and office space for event coordination.
He said an entryway featuring gates and a pedestrian plaza leading into the precinct were also an important part of the plans to make a positive first impression.
As part of the Recreational Precinct works a pedestrian-friendly avenue will be created with space to install public art, historical images, banners, event-specific displays and information.
The plaza will enable informal gatherings and mobile food vendors and there will be new seating, lighting and landscaping to create a sense of anticipation.
Cr Habermann today met with Murchie Constructions' Andrew Murchie, who is leading the work, as well as State Member for Bundaberg Tom Smith MP on site to view the progress.
Works For Queensland supports project
Mr Smith said the Works For Queensland funding contributes to creating local jobs and enables worthwhile projects to move forward.
He said the Recreational Precinct works were a perfect example of two levels of government working together to achieve a better outcome for regional employment.
“So we've got eight carpenters on site today who are helping to work and build up this fantastic facility, and what we are seeing is local jobs being created right here,” Mr Smith said.
Works for Queensland has created over 3000 jobs in the Bundaberg Region according to Mr Smith, with $18 million comong into the region last year to help with building projects.
“That's all a part of our strong economic recovery plan,” Mr Smith said.
“We did it pretty tough last year with COVID-19 but through programs like this, we are investing into our region and we're investing into regional jobs as well.
“To be working with the Bundaberg Regional Council is fantastic. They put a lot of effort into making sure that the area that we live in is a good, healthy, safe community.”
Local jobs created in construction phase
Andrew Murchie said he could have up to 15 locals working at the Recreational Precinct works site on any given day, with the first stage of construction set to be finished in time for AgroTrend in April.
“We're currently working on the internals of the refurbishment of the existing pavilion and completing external wall awnings on the inside of the walls,” he said.
“When the total project is complete, it'll definitely make a significant improvement. It won't have that big shed feel.”
Cr Habermann said the project would not have gone ahead without the support from the State Government.
“Council appreciates the State Government’s investment in Works for Queensland,” he said.
“The program enables projects to go ahead which would not be possible otherwise or would have to be deferred.”
The Bundaberg Regional Council project has been supported by the Federal Government Drought Communities and the State Government 2020-2021 COVID Works for Queensland programs.
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