Wallumbilla's new community precinct breaks ground

Construction works on Wallumbilla’s new community precinct has officially begun with Assistant Minister for Regional Development Anthony Chisholm joining Maranoa Regional Council representatives to turn the first sod on the new $4.85 million facility (in south-west Queensland).

The precinct upgrade will feature a new community centre, library, visitor information centre and professional service spaces. 

The project will also include upgrades to the area that surrounds the heritage listed Calico Cottage, with new parklands and open space set to feature. 

The Calico Cottage Heritage Complex has stood since 1956 and provides visitors to Wallumbilla with insight into the history of the local community. 

The upgrades will also enable the council to better support volunteers at Wallumbilla Heritage Association, with the upgraded precinct set to provide more space to expand the Wallumbilla Historical Museum which is housed within the cottage.

The Australian Government partnered with the Maranoa Regional Council through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program to provide $2.6 million toward the project. Additional funding was also provided by Origin Energy. 

The LRCI Program supports councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects in their region, creating jobs and long-lasting benefits for communities. 

More information on the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program is available here.

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm:

"We're committed to working in partnership with local governments to deliver services and build infrastructure that delivers benefits and supports jobs in local communities. This new precinct in the heart of Wallumbilla will do just that.

“The construction of a new community centre, including upgraded library, visitor information services, upgraded Calico Cottage and professional service spaces. The project will also include carparking, landscaping and parklands open space area.

“Over the course of the LRCI program, the Australian Government has committed almost $660 million towards 1,631 projects in Queensland to date.

“Our regional and remote towns are known for their welcoming and supportive nature, providing more space for communities, like those in Wallumbilla, to gather and foster this sense of belonging is vital, and the Albanese Government is proud to play its part in making that happen.”

Quotes attributable to Mayor of Maranoa Region, Cr Wendy Taylor:

“This is an important development for the town of Wallumbilla, and for the entire region.”

“It will be a boost for tourism, that will benefit all of the town’s businesses as well as the volunteer organisations such as Calico Cottage and the Wallumbilla Heritage Association, who are the backbone of the community.” 

Quotes attributable to Origin Energy General Manager – Non-Operated and Exploration, Alexandra Kennedy-Clark:

"As upstream operator of Australia Pacific LNG, Origin is immensely proud to support this transformative project with a $2.25 million contribution, to assist its successful delivery."

"Origin and Australia Pacific LNG are dedicated to making a positive impact on the communities where we live, work, and thrive. This project represents another step in our ongoing efforts to engage with, support, and invest in our local areas."