Published Monday, 12 February, 2007 at 02:21 PM

JOINT STATEMENT
Premier and Minister for Trade
The Honourable Peter Beattie
Minister for Local Government, Planning and Sport
The Honourable Andrew Fraser
STATE GOVERNMENT DELIVERS ARTS FUNDING BOOST
Premier Peter Beattie today presented Atherton Shire Council with a cheque for $233,675 to go towards the Tableland Regional Art Gallery development.
The funding has been provided under the State Government’s 150 Years Legacy Infrastructure Program for commemorative projects in the lead up to Queensland’s 150th celebrations in 2009.
As well as presenting the cheque to Atherton, the Eacham Shire Council is to receive $25,000 to help restore the Majestic Theatre in time for the 150th birthday.
Premier Beattie and Minister for Local Government and Planning Andrew Fraser announced details of the Majestic Theatre funding today.
“2009 is an important year for our State, commemorating our separation from New South Wales, and we need to ensure there are lasting reminders of that milestone,” Mr Beattie said.
“We are identifying projects just like these across the State that will create a legacy and be enjoyed by generations to come. The proposed restoration of the Malanda Majestic Theatre meets these important objectives.”
The project involves the restoration of the theatre including roof and minor structural repairs as well as painting the outside of the building.
The home of the Malanda Theatre Company was built in 1928 and is one of Australia’s only fully operational country picture theatres.
“The Atherton and Eacham projects aim to enhance the quality of life for the local community and ensure residents and visitors alike are aware of the rich history that is steeped into these regions,’’ Mr Beattie said.
Mr Fraser said the project – like all others considered for funding – was required to meet specific criteria.
“When we asked Councils to submit their proposals last year we were looking for practical tributes. That is, projects that would provide real and lasting benefits to the community for years to come,” he said.
“I feel very confident that this project will more than achieve this outcome.”
Mr Fraser said each of the two Councils was now required to submit a project plan confirming a 2008 completion date and demonstrate their ability to secure any additional funds required to undertake the project.
The Queensland Government announced last year that Atherton Shire Council would receive $233,675 in funding for the construction of the Tableland gallery – an octagonal exhibition space which will be connected to the existing Atherton Cultural Centre.
Media Contacts: Premier’s Office Paul Cronin 0418 795 940
Minister’s Office Selina Steele 0417 752 833
The funding has been provided under the State Government’s 150 Years Legacy Infrastructure Program for commemorative projects in the lead up to Queensland’s 150th celebrations in 2009.
As well as presenting the cheque to Atherton, the Eacham Shire Council is to receive $25,000 to help restore the Majestic Theatre in time for the 150th birthday.
Premier Beattie and Minister for Local Government and Planning Andrew Fraser announced details of the Majestic Theatre funding today.
“2009 is an important year for our State, commemorating our separation from New South Wales, and we need to ensure there are lasting reminders of that milestone,” Mr Beattie said.
“We are identifying projects just like these across the State that will create a legacy and be enjoyed by generations to come. The proposed restoration of the Malanda Majestic Theatre meets these important objectives.”
The project involves the restoration of the theatre including roof and minor structural repairs as well as painting the outside of the building.
The home of the Malanda Theatre Company was built in 1928 and is one of Australia’s only fully operational country picture theatres.
“The Atherton and Eacham projects aim to enhance the quality of life for the local community and ensure residents and visitors alike are aware of the rich history that is steeped into these regions,’’ Mr Beattie said.
Mr Fraser said the project – like all others considered for funding – was required to meet specific criteria.
“When we asked Councils to submit their proposals last year we were looking for practical tributes. That is, projects that would provide real and lasting benefits to the community for years to come,” he said.
“I feel very confident that this project will more than achieve this outcome.”
Mr Fraser said each of the two Councils was now required to submit a project plan confirming a 2008 completion date and demonstrate their ability to secure any additional funds required to undertake the project.
The Queensland Government announced last year that Atherton Shire Council would receive $233,675 in funding for the construction of the Tableland gallery – an octagonal exhibition space which will be connected to the existing Atherton Cultural Centre.
Media Contacts: Premier’s Office Paul Cronin 0418 795 940
Minister’s Office Selina Steele 0417 752 833