The $6.1 million Tully Multi-Purpose Centre is now on the way with Jan McLucas, Senator for Queensland, joining the local community on site today to turn the first sod, officially kicking off construction works.

Anthony Albanese, Minister for Infrastructure and Local Government, said the Rudd Labor Government provided $2.1 million to the Cassowary Coast Regional Council for the Centre from our $1 billion Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program (RLCIP).

“Importantly, over 30 jobs are expected to be created during construction of the project, and a further two ongoing jobs created after completion, providing a real boost to the local economy,” Mr Albanese said

“The RLCIP is a key part of our Economic Stimulus Plan and is delivering local jobs in communities across Australia by building infrastructure for the long term.”

Senator McLucas said the Centre will provide much-needed sporting, cultural and performance facilities to the region.

“The project includes the construction of new indoor and outdoor sports courts, a new stage, sound and lighting equipment, kitchen amenities and provision of access to Tully State High School via a covered walkway, including accessibility features for people with a disability,” Senator McLucas said.

“The new Multi-Purpose Centre will be used by more than 5,000 people each year, including community groups, sports and fitness groups and local school members.

“The Centre will also double as an emergency cyclone shelter for the community,” she said.

Mr Albanese said that in partnership with every council in the country the Rudd Labor Government is delivering almost 5,000 small and larger scale building projects like this one, including new and refurbished public libraries, sporting facilities, parks and playgrounds, and child care centres.

“In fact, we are making the single largest federal investment in community infrastructure through the RLCIP,” Mr Albanese said.

Mr Albanese and Senator McLucas congratulated the Cassowary Coast Regional Council, the Queensland Government, Tully State High School and the local community for helping deliver this important project, and helping to build a stronger region for the future.