Aquatic Centre reaches milestone

The Gold Coast Aquatic Centre is rapidly taking shape with completion of the centre’s roof marking another major construction milestone in the $41 million redevelopment project.

Commonwealth Games Minister Jann Stuckey said the occasion was marked by more than 120 workers who watched on as the final roof sheet was hoisted into place.

“Completion of the roof above the new Learn to Swim Pool is the next major milestone for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games,” Ms Stuckey said.

“The redevelopment of the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre will be a shining legacy for our city, providing a world-class facility for international swimming events, such as the 2014 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships in August this year.

“The significant level of local industry participation has been impressive with approximately 65 per cent representation so far from Gold Coast firms and in total 96 per cent representation from South East Queensland.

“The Commonwealth Games are a boost for the region with projects starting to provide meaningful long term benefits for Queenslanders through local business and employment opportunities.

“It took a team of approximately 10 workers from a local Gold Coast company, Havendeen Roofing, to install the roof.

“It aligns with our election promise to grow tourism as one of the four pillars of the economy.”

Chairman of City of Gold Coast’s Commonwealth Games and Major Projects Committee Councillor Lex Bell said the aquatic centre project had set a benchmark for other Commonwealth Games projects.

“Today’s milestone is a celebration for all the local people who have worked on the project and been part of preparations for the Commonwealth Games,” said Cr Bell.

“The aquatic centre will not only be a world class competition venue, it will also be a wonderful new city asset for local families and user groups.

“Today’s construction milestone is both a step forward for the Commonwealth Games and for our local community.”

Visit www.embracing2018.com- where communities, individuals and businesses can get involved in the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games legacy program.

[ENDS] 14 February 2014

Media contact: Natalie Wynne 0439 291 268