New operators for Magnetic Island recreation centre

A popular school camp and recreation centre will continue to provide entertainment and learning experiences for generations of north Queensland communities, Sport and Recreation Minister Steve Dickson announced today.

Minister Dickson said Apex Queensland Youth Camps had been selected to operate the Magnetic Island Active Recreation Centre (ARC) at Picnic Bay.

“The Newman Government has been firmly committed to finding a solution that would allow this important community asset to remain open, while lessening the costs burden for Queensland taxpayers,” Mr Dickson said.

“This is a great outcome for Magnetic Island, with Apex to continue to use the centre for school children and corporate and community groups, with potential for visitors to be taken on excursions with a marine, reef and environmental focus.

“While the former Labor Government simply simply sold off or shut down a total of six ARCs during the last term, the LNP has always maintained that we would work with the Magnetic Island community and operators to ensure this facility could remain open into the future.”

Mr Dickson said Apex had operated the Apex Camp Mudjimba on the Sunshine Coast for more than 30 years and the organisation had wide experience in managing outdoor centres.

Member for Townsville John Hathaway said the announcement meant the island and its surrounding communities could continue to enjoy top-class facilities for a range of activities.

“This is a great outcome for Magnetic Island residents, the community and local schools,” Mr Hathaway said.

“Apex has a long track record of serving the community and I believe they will make the camp at Picnic Bay even better than it was previously, as well as boosting our economy with local jobs.” 

President of Apex Queensland Youth Camps Wayne Greenham said his organisation was one hundred per cent committed to getting Apex Camp Magnetic Island up and running quickly, making it bigger and better than ever.

“We look forward to welcoming back the many schools and community groups that have established traditions of attending the camp and showing them a great time,” Mr Greenhamsaid.

“Apex is committed to supporting the Magnetic Island and Townsville economies by employing locals, purchasing from locally owned businesses and using local activity operators.”

New operating arrangements for the Yeppoon and Leslie Dam ARCs have also been announced, with Yeppoon to be run by the PCYC and Leslie Dam operated by the YMCA.

Apex is expected to take over the centre’s operation from 1 August this year.

For further information and booking enquiries contact Apex Queensland Youth Camps on 07 5448 7637 or email magneticisland@apexyouthcamps.com.au.

[Ends] 8 July 2013

Contact: Anna Hilton 0408 191 192