The Rudd Labor Government has today announced more than $720,000 for ready-to-go local infrastructure projects for Queanbeyan and Jerrabombera, including upgrades to the Queanbeyan Showgrounds, Riverside Oval and the David Madew Oval.

Minister Albanese said that the funding would be delivered from the $800 million Community Infrastructure Program to support jobs and boost local economies.

"This program is the single largest investment in local infrastructure in Australia's history."

The Queanbeyan City Council will receive funding for the following local projects:

• $170,000 to upgrade the Queanbeyan Showground, including sealing of internal roads and parking areas, replacing the cattle yards and installing new amenities;


• $290,000 to replace the kiosk, change room and storage room at Riverside Oval;


• $90,000 to upgrade Queanbeyan Museum;


• $80,000 to construct a walkway over Glenrock Creek, which will also serve to collect storm debris underneath;


• $60,000 for the construction of storage facilities at David Madew Oval;


• $20,000 to construct a reconciliation area at Queanbeyan Park;


• $8,500 to upgrade the Queanbeyan and District Basketball stadium; and


• $2,500 to build a cubby house and activity centre for the Waratah Pre-School.

Mr Albanese said that the Rudd Government was determined to act decisively with local communities to support jobs and improve the quality of local infrastructure.

“Without federal funding these projects would have remained in the 'too-hard' basket."

"More than 3,600 projects have been submitted under the first round of the Community Infrastructure Program.”

Dr Kelly today said he was pleased to see funding announced so quickly for the Queanbeyan community.

"This injection of funding will give a significant boost to Queanbeyan’s economy and will see a number of important local projects going ahead.

“These projects will benefit every resident of Queanbeyan, through improvements to the Showground, parks, sporting facilities and the Queanbeyan museum.

"The Council will receive a contract shortly. I encourage them to sign and return it as quickly as possible so funds can be released”, said Dr Kelly.