Council Secures $29.8M Federal funding for major community projects
Whitsunday Regional Council is excited to announce that it has been awarded $29.8 million under the Federal Government’s Growing Regions Program.
Mayor Ry Collins said the funding would assist Council to deliver two transformative projects for the region in the $29.7 million Cannonvale Community Hub and the $30 million Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct.
“This investment under the Growing Regions Program is a game-changer for our Whitsunday region and our community,” he said.
“The Cannonvale Community Hub and the Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct will not only provide much-needed infrastructure but also create lasting social, economic, and cultural benefits for our fast growing community.
“From my first day as Mayor I had a strong focus on advocacy and creating partnerships with all tiers of government, so I thank the Federal Government for recognizing the importance of these projects and supporting our vision for a vibrant and resilient Whitsunday region.
“The Cannonvale Community Hub will be a cutting-edge 1,882m² facility designed to address the needs of the Whitsunday region’s growing population of over 15,000 residents,” Mayor Collins said.
“The project will provide: modern library equipped to serve up to 20,000 people with technology spaces, study zones, and flexible event areas, meeting rooms for community and social initiatives, business and education spaces to support digital inclusion and professional growth and disaster resilience infrastructure to ensure the region is prepared for emergency events.
Mayor Colins said the $29 million investment in a community hub for Airlie Beach/Cannonvale will not only enhance the region’s social and cultural infrastructure but also deliver significant economic benefits.
“The project will support 121 full-time equivalent jobs during construction and contribute $1.1 million annually to the local economy once operational.
“The $30 million Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct has the potential to be a once in a generation sporting facility for regional Queensland and create a premier sports and recreation destination.
“Features of the precinct include multi-purpose sports fields and courts to cater to a wide range of activities, facilities designed for local sports clubs, schools, and community events and spaces to promote active living and recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.
“This investment will strengthen the region’s capacity to host sporting events, provide modern facilities for local teams, and encourage participation in active lifestyles.
“In the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics the sports precinct will also create opportunities for economic growth through sports tourism and community engagement,” Mayor Collins said.
“Council will begin planning and consultation phases for both projects immediately to ensure they meet the needs and aspirations of our community.
“We are keen to take the community on the journey and updates will be shared as milestones are achieved and I encourage residents to stay engaged throughout the development process.”