First sod turned on new Chinchilla Botanical Parklands

Local Government Minister Stirling Hinchliffe today turned the first sod on the new $6 million, 4.2hectare, Chinchilla Botanical Parklands.

Mr Hinchliffe said the project is being partly funded by the Palaszczuk Government’s $445 million Building Our Regions fund.

“The Palaszczuk Government is pleased to be contributing $2.85 million to the Chinchilla Botanical Parklands,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“This fantastic open space will enhance the wellbeing of the community well into the future - adding to the beauty, heritage and liveability of the region and creating increased opportunities for event and tourism development.

“The project includes a raised concrete stage with shelter, playground, picnic shelters and uncovered picnic tables, BBQs, seating, constructed wetlands and a water play area.

“The Parklands will support regular daily social activities and the continued operation of the local monthly markets.

"It will also support at least 12 other minor events and three major events a year.”

The Building Our Regions supports infrastructure that provides economic and social benefits to regional and remote areas.

“The Chinchilla Botanical Parklands project is supporting 18 jobs during construction, andthree ongoing jobs,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“The project is a fine example of developing community infrastructure aimed at creating jobs and sustained economic growth.

“The botanical garden precinct will be the focal point for community events, entertainment and gatherings.”

 Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh said the Western Downs region would benefit from excellent infrastructure and tourism attraction thanks to the Chinchilla Botanic Parklands project.

"We are looking at this not just as a feature of Chinchilla, but of the whole Western Downs, and one that will draw both locals and tourists as it showcases the great liveability of our region," said Cr McVeigh.

"Delivering this wonderful community garden project in collaboration with the State Government is the fruition of a concept that was first canvassed back in the 1970s and we're very pleased it's been such a successful partnership.

"The scale and diversity of what will be on offer in the Chinchilla Parklands is breaking new ground in our region and we're excited to start construction on this wonderful recreational space for our community."

 Mr Hinchliffe said the Palaszczuk Government will continue to fund vital community infrastructure in regional Queensland.

“We will continue meet the specific needs of regional communities and support economic development, generating jobs for the regions,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

http://statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/regional-development/building-our-regions.html

Media contact: Martin Philip 0427 194 548