The community is set to significantly benefit from the announcement this week that two transformative projects for the region will receive a total of almost $60M funding that has been awarded under the Federal Governments Growing Regions Program.
The first project will be the Cannonvale Community Hub which received $29.7M for construction of a cutting-edge 1,882m² facility designed to address the needs of the Whitsunday region’s growing population of over 15,000 residents.
The project is said to support 121 full-time equivalent jobs during construction and contribute $1.1 million annually to the local economy once operational.
The Community Hub will consist of a modern library equipped to serve up to 20,000 people with technology spaces, study zones, and flexible event areas, meeting rooms for community and social initiatives, business and education spaces. It will also support digital inclusion and professional growth and disaster resilience infrastructure to ensure the region is prepared for emergency events.
The second project announced this week is a $30 million Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct which will create an additional premier sports and recreation destination in the Whitsundays, designed to foster community health and wellness.
Features of the precinct include multi-purpose sports fields and courts to cater to a wide range of activities, facilities designed for local sports clubs, schools, and community events and spaces to promote active living and recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.
Mayor Collins, who has a strong focus on advocacy and creating partnership with all tiers of government, said the funding will not only enhance the region’s social and cultural infrastructure but also deliver significant economic benefits.
In addition, the investment will strengthen the region’s capacity to host sporting events, provide modern facilities for local teams, and encourage participation in active lifestyles.
This investment aims to strengthen the region’s capacity to host sporting events, provide modern facilities for local teams, and encourage participation in active lifestyles.
“In the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics the sports precinct will also create opportunities for economic growth through sports tourism and community engagement,” Mayor Collins said.
“This investment under the Growing Regions Program is a game-changer for our Whitsunday region and our community.
“The Cannonvale Community Hub and the Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct will not only provide much-needed infrastructure but also create lasting social, economic, and cultural benefits for our community.
“I thank the Federal Government for recognising the importance of these projects and supporting our vision for a vibrant and resilient Whitsunday region.”
“Council will begin planning and consultation phases for both projects immediately to ensure they meet the needs and aspirations of the community.
“We are keen to take the community on the journey and updates will be shared as milestones are achieved and I encourage residents to stay engaged throughout the development process.”
A concept graphic of the $29.7M Community Hub which is now funded along with the $30M Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct. Image supplied: Whitsunday Regional Council