Project update: May 23, 2024
$15 million announced for Northern Beaches Community Hub
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox today announced a $15 million funding boost to kickstart the Northern Beaches Community Hub stage 1B.
Design work already completed for stage 1B by CA Architects for Mackay Regional Council shows a dynamic public facility that will include a library, meeting rooms and café.
The 1B funding announcement, thanks to the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program, comes as construction of the Northern Beaches Community Hub’s first stage takes shape.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the Northern Beaches Community Hub, located opposite Mackay Northern Beaches State High School, was one of council’s signature projects.
He said Fergus Builders had made good progress on construction work for stage 1A after being awarded a $10.2 million tender for this key piece of infrastructure.
“The first stage, which is under way, includes an undercover multi-purpose court and storeroom, nature play and picnic spaces, as well as landscaping, pedestrian links, and a parking area.”
Mayor Williamson said construction of the first stage started in March and is scheduled for completion in May 2025, weather permitting.
He said council’s project team had been working with CA Architects to progress design work for the next stage so it could be shovel-ready for government funding opportunities.
“This is an extremely important project for the Northern Beaches, which is our region’s fastest growing area in terms of population.
“A lot of community consultation, including community and agency reference groups, have helped shape the vision for this site.”
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox believes the hub is going to be a “vital piece of infrastructure to support the expanding population within the northern suburbs of Mackay.”
“The Northern Beaches Community Hub will provide a local meeting place for the community to connect, and will deliver a range of activities, programs, services, and events tailored to the needs of the Northern Beaches Community,’’ he said.
“Being able to announce funding for stage 1B of this project is a huge win for the area and ensures we see this project continue.”
Stage 1A of the project is partly funded by the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.
The Australian Government committed $6.5 million towards stage 1A, with council contributing the remainder of the cost of the works.
Click here to learn more about this exciting project and to view the latest master plan.
Above: Mayor Greg Williamson and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox at the Northern Beaches Community Hub site.
Above: An artist’s impression of the front entry to be built as part of stage 1B of the Northern Beaches Community Hub.
Above: An artist’s impression of stage 1B's building.
