Julia Creek’s new $2.2 million Community and Cultural Precinct officially re-opened last Friday.
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The refurbished centre includes new flooring, stage AV equipment, air-conditioning, an outdoor patio area, and a kitchen and bar area.
Attending the ceremony was South 32 acting vice president of operations Grant Eggington and Assistant Minister of State Assisting the Premier, Jennifer Howard.
$1.2 million of the funding came from the state government last year, and another $400,000 was donated by mining company South32.
McKinlay Shire Council allocated $600,000 to the upgrades.
Mayor Belinda Murphy officially opened the community and cultural precinct where she said the upgrades generated local jobs and local spending valued at $1.2 million.
She said the project was completed by Townsville based business Richardson’s Building Contracts.
“I am extremely happy that Richardson’s spend with local contractors and business exceed our tender target of $1 million to $1.2 million.
“It certainly demonstrates what can be achieved locally and was a great stimulus to our shire during the previous months.”
Also being re-opened was the refurbished Jan Eckord Centre, the cultural hub of the shire based behind the hall.
The money from this refurbishment game from the Federal Government’s Drought Infrastructure Funding.
McKinlay Shire’s Cultural Association president Aileen Gabbert, mayor Belinda Murphy and Queensland Senator Ian Macdonald cut the official ribbon.
Later that night the hall’s first official event was held. The dinner showcased local beef and red claw while guests were entertained by musicians Off the Cuff and global act Soul Mystique.
Councillor Murphy said; “what an amazing day for our shire with three wonderful projects now open for the benefit of community and the region.”
The day was a busy one for the shire and for the mayor, who also on that day opened the Punchbowl Bridge on the Flinders River.