185 jobs and top class cycling hub coming to Chandler

Queensland’s first indoor cycling velodrome is closer to completion after nine towers to provide temporary support for the $58 million structure were erected, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said today.

Ms Palaszczuk said the Queensland State Velodrome, which is under construction at Chandler and set to support 185 jobs, will create a new hub for the community and for elite cyclists in the South East.

Ms Palaszczuk was joined by Commonwealth Games Minister Kate Jones and Federal member for Bonner Ross Vasta to inspect progress on the facility which will host the track cycling competition for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

Ms Palaszczuk said the 12 metre towers would support construction of the velodrome’s 750 tonne steel superstructure.

“The Velodrome is scheduled for completion mid 2016 – almost two years out from the Games,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“Queensland is already reaping rewards from this facility with 185 jobs supported during design and construction.

“We have a long history of successful cyclists in Queensland like Olympic Gold Medallist Anna Meares and national champion Mike Victor.

“This new indoor facility will ensure Queensland cycling continues to grow and develop as well as attract larger national and international cycling events.

“This Government is all about growing Queensland’s future, whether it’s jobs, tourism, infrastructure or the economy.

“With the Queensland State Velodrome project, we’re growing this precinct into a world class venue for future events that the local community can enjoy and be proud of for years to come.

Ms Jones said the velodrome would leave an outstanding legacy for Queensland athletes.

“Its proximity to the BMX SuperX Track as well as the pool, gymnasium, catering and accommodation will allow it to become a centre of excellence for cycling,” Ms Jones said.

“It will attract elite training squads and competition events from Australia and overseas.

“We have the BMX National championships starting tomorrow, an event supported by this government through Tourism and Events Queensland.

“There are almost 1,500 competitors taking part over five days, which shows how important state-of-the-art facilities are when it comes to attracting national and international events.”

Member for Bonner Ross Vasta welcomed the news.

“I’m pleased to witness today a major milestone in the construction of this world-class facility,” Mr Vasta said.

 “The velodrome once completed will create scores of jobs and help grow the economy by attracting elite athletes and world-class cycling events to our state.

 “The Australian Government has been proud to partner with the Queensland Government to deliver this world-class infrastructure for the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.”

 The crane towers constructed on the velodrome site will eventually hold up a central steel oculus which is the first component of the 117 metre by 113 metre velodrome roof that will be constructed later this year.

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