A North Queensland based construction company has been selected to build the new Bowen Neighbourhood Centre.
Minister for Communities and Housing Leeanne Enoch said Woollam Constructions had been appointed to design and construct the new centre in Bowen.
“Woollam Constructions have worked closely with the Queensland Government on a number of projects in North Queensland, including the Bowen Police Station and Watchhouse project and the Townsville Women’s Centre,” Ms Enoch said.
“The Queensland Government is providing $5.6 million funding for this project, including up to $4.583 million for the design and construction of the new centre to ensure it is fit for purpose and suits the needs of the community.
“This project will support approximately 12 local construction jobs, providing a welcome boost to the local economy.
“I look forward to construction beginning on site next month.”
The new neighbourhood centre to be built at 40 Gregory Street will replace the existing centre on Williams Street that has been serving the community for more than 25 years.
Ms Enoch said increased demand, particularly following natural disasters in recent years, meant the current neighbourhood centre premises needed to be upgraded.
“The Bowen Neighbourhood Centre has been doing some fantastic work in the community, but their current premises are older and needed to be upgraded to continue to meet demand for services,” she said.
“That’s why we’re building this brand new centre, which will be able to deliver even greater services and supports to the community, particularly as it recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I know the Bowen Community Council is looking forward to moving into their new centre when it’s completed next year.
“The Palaszczuk Government recognises the important role Neighbourhood and Community Centres play in supporting Queenslanders accessing important social and community services.
“That’s why the Government is investing around $19.5 million in 2021-22 in Neighbourhood and Community Centres, including more than 125 NCCs across the state.”
Bowen Neighbourhood Centre chairperson Christine Coventry said, “To have a new purpose-built Neighbourhood Centre in Bowen is going to open up so many extra opportunities for our community.
“We thank the Dept of Communities for their foresight in recognising the need in Bowen. To have all the existing activities like Cooinda Family Centre, the Bowen OP shop, The Tuckerbox Food Bank, plus so much more, all on one site, will be such a benefit to the whole community.”
