GC2018 aims to leave lasting legacy for Queensland sporting shooters
Published Monday, 12 February, 2018 at 02:36 PM
Minister for Housing and Public Works, Minister for Digital Technology and Minister for Sport
The Honourable Mick de Brenni
Queensland’s sporting and recreational shooters will be among those to benefit from the GC2018 legacy, with Minister for Sport Mick de Brenni today announcing the upgraded Belmont shotgun facility would be considered for permanent retention for community and competition use.
Mr de Brenni said the Palaszczuk Government invested $17.5 million to develop a temporary shotgun range at the Belmont rifle range, which was completed in April 2017 ahead of the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.
“The Palaszczuk Government has made a significant investment to deliver world class facilities ahead of the Commonwealth Games, and where possible, I want to ensure that these facilities remain available for Queenslanders to use into the future,” Mr de Brenni said.
“There’s every chance that the Belmont shooting complex becomes part of Australian sporting folklore during the Games – it’s a top-class facility that will play host to our top-class Aussie shooters.
“After listening to the views of the Queensland Rifle Association about the future of the temporary shotgun range, in October 2017 I approved the commencement of a Community Infrastructure Designation to consider extending the life of the facility beyond the Games.
“My department is now working through this process with Department of State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning, which I expect will be completed this year.
“Taxpayers expect their elected representatives to get real value for money when we spend it, so it makes perfect sense that I ensure this costly infrastructure isn’t torn down after just three days of competition.”
Mr de Brenni said retaining the Belmont shooting ranges would deliver on the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to ensure an enduring legacy from GC2018.
“The venue legacy provided by this government’s investment will ensure Belmont remains a world class shooting-sport complex for Queensland’s sporting community for years to come.”
ENDS
Media contact: Cat Milton 0410 644 113