NEW MACKAY SPORTS PRECINCT CLEARS THE HURDLE

ATHLETES and the general public can now run, jump and swim their way into the new Mackay Aquatic and Recreation Complex on the CQ University’s local campus.

Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry, who attended today’s opening event, said the new precinct will provide competition-standard sporting facilities located at the Mackay campus of the Central Queensland University.

“The new athletics and aquatic centres both meet international competition standards, ensuring our athletes in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions have access to high-quality sporting facilities,” Ms Landry said.

“I can’t wait to see our local sporting stars make the most of these fantastic facilities to take their sporting careers to the next level.”

Federal Member for Dawson George Christensen said the new athletics facility will accommodate all Olympic athletic codes, including a synthetic running track, long-jump pits, a water jump, discus, hammer and shot put circles and javelin runways in addition to multi-use playing fields and a fully-equipped clubhouse.

“Similarly, the aquatic centre will provide an Olympic 10-lane, 50-metre competition pool, along with two smaller pools with accessible ramp access,” Mr Christensen said.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack, who joined Ms Landry and Mr Christensen at the event, said the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government’s nearly $10 million investment will boost economic growth in the region.

“Huge sporting infrastructure projects such as this not only bring communities together but also provide great job opportunities, with 50 jobs supported during construction and 12 ongoing roles at the centre itself,” Mr McCormack said.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Council will be teaming up with local athletics, swimming and sporting clubs to put on a day of demonstrations and come-and-try activities.

“This facility has a real wow factor – the moment you walk through those turnstiles and see the three pools and the massive synthetic track, you realise just how state-of-the-art it is. Today’s grand opening will be just the first of many big events to be held at this complex,” Cr Williamson said.

This project was jointly funded with the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government investing $9,996,196 and Mackay Regional Council $13,801,804.