Breaking ground on new Chinchilla Community Centre

Construction of a new community one-stop-shop for Western Downs’ residents is underway with a sod-turning ceremony held to mark the official start of the project.

Communities Minister Tracy Davis today joined representatives from funding partner QGC (BG Group), and local community representatives at the site in 67–71 Middle Street, Chinchilla.

“This is a great day for the Chinchilla community which will soon have access to a range of important services and support under the one, purpose-built roof,” Ms Davis said.

“The Queensland Government has a strong plan for a brighter future for families in the Western Downs and this $3.6 million centre will encourage greater community inclusion and participation.

“Our government is delivering on our promise to build better infrastructure and this innovative partnership with QGC will mean the community centre assists more families, sooner.”

QGC Vice President of Sustainability Brett Smith said QGC’s investment would contribute to the liveability of the Western Downs.

“QGC is proud to be working with the Queensland Government and local groups and we’re looking forward to seeing people benefit from this enhanced building,” he said.

Member for Warrego Howard Hobbs said Chinchilla Family Support Service would be the lead tenants for the centre with responsibility for its day-to-day management.

“Chinchilla Family Support will coordinate services in the centre including personal development, employment services, Centrelink services and disability support from the new centre,” Mr Hobbs said.

Chinchilla Family Support Service President Linda Elder said the centre would significantly improve the capacity of community services to support residents of Chinchilla and the surrounding area.

“This new centre will, for the first time, enable people to access an extensive range of services under the one roof.”

The project is due for completion by early next year.

[ENDS] 24 September 2014

Media Contact Katherine Fraser 0417 172 480