New police and court facilities for Sarina

The State Government today announced a major commitment to community safety in the central Queensland town of Sarina with a $3 million capital works program for police and court facilities.

In a joint announcement, the Minister for Police and Corrective Services, Judy Spence, and Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Rod Welford, said the project was a demonstration of the Beattie Government's commitment to strong regional communities.

"We have earmarked $2.8 million for a new police station at Sarina," Ms Spence said.

"This will replace the existing station in Broad Street, which was built over 45 years ago and is now far too small to meet the needs of a modern police service.

"Plans for the new station - to be built on the existing site - are currently on public display at the Sarina Post Office and I expect the design work to be completed ready for tenders to be called in November. Construction should begin in early 2005, with the new station finished in August 2006.

"The new Sarina station represents an important investment in policing and the safety of the local community."

Mr Welford announced an upgrade to the Sarina courthouse with improved public access and better facilities for victims of crime.

"This project will modernise the courthouse and enable court business to be conducted more efficiently with proper consideration for all concerned," Mr Welford said.

"The refurbishment will include a public waiting area, interview room, public toilets, improved security, upgraded access for the disabled and a new air conditioning system."

"My Department of Justice and Attorney-General has begun drawing up plans to refurbish the courthouse and the project will be undertaken in consultation with the Queensland Police Service."

Mr Welford said the modernisation of the Sarina courthouse was the latest in a series of improvements to facilities in central Queensland. An $11.4 million overhaul of the Mackay courthouse is expected to be completed within the next two months.

Media contacts: For Mr Welford - Greg Milne on 3239 3478 or 0417 791 336 For Ms Spence - Fiona Reynolds on 3239 6218 or 0439 673287