Keppel Bay Sailing and Convention Centre project underway
The wheels are now in motion for the new state-of-the-art Keppel Bay Sailing and Convention Centre, after the $20 Million Federal Government funding announced back in 2019 received final sign off recently.
Pre-construction planning has now commenced on the game-changing facility, which is set to attract large, corporate, and sporting events and provide considerable diversification to the local business economy and tourism sector.
The Convention Centre, which was identified as a Regional Priority Project back in 2010, will be the first stage in a multi-purpose $65 Million dollar facility, delivering a first-class resource for the Capricorn Coast and greater Central Queensland region.
With the engagement of a project manager the first step to the project’s success, construction is expected to commence mid-2022 and be completed by the end of 2023.
Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry said that the economic benefits that come with the development of the Keppel Bay Sailing and Convention Centre will be huge for the Capricorn Coast.
“We all know job creation is essential and I’m sure the boost to the local economy will be very welcome to the community,” Ms Landry said.
“I committed $20 million in funding for the Keppel Bay Sailing and Convention Centre, and I am happy to see the project move closer to seeing shovels in the ground.”
With bold concept plans incorporating dramatic and prominent contemporary architecture, leading technologies, and a unique combination of innovative, yet functional meeting spaces and facilities, the Centre will be positioned as Central Queensland’s leading convention, exhibition, and entertainment precinct.
Keppel Bay Sailing Club Commodore, Sandra Byrt, knows that the construction of this facility will be one of the region’s most exciting and challenging development projects and looks forward to turning the sod very soon.
“The Board of Keppel Bay Sailing Club has worked closely with our Sailing committee to ensure that in planning for this outstanding local resource we also planned for a state-of-the-art sailing facility for our sailing operations in the future,” said Sandra.
Set to play host to thousands of guests, resulting in more heads on beds, more visitors in our cafes, restaurants and boutiques, and more money back in the pockets of our local businesses, Capricorn Enterprise CEO Mary Carroll believes that the Keppel Bay Sailing and Convention Centre will fill a critical gap for the Central Queensland region.
“This exciting piece of infrastructure will put our destination on the national stage and is a much needed and important piece to the puzzle for our thriving region,” Mary said.
“Understanding that quality planning delivers exceptional results, we have patiently waited for this very moment and now look forward to continuing our work with key stakeholders as this project takes another big leap forward.”
“We know that the Keppel Bay Sailing and Convention Centre will be well worth the wait for the entire community,” Mary said.
Capricorn Enterprise November 9th 2021
