Media Release

24 April 2009

Queensland’s first project in Community Infrastructure Program

The Rudd Labor Government has today agreed to provide $2.1 million towards the construction and fit-out of a new indoor sports centre in Fernvale, outside Ipswich.

Minister for Human Services, Senator Joe Ludwig, said the funding is part of the Government’s $800 million Community Infrastructure Program – the largest one-off investment in local infrastructure in Australia's history.

“Fernvale’s new indoor sports centre is Queensland’s first major community infrastructure project to receive an offer of funding under the program,” Senator Ludwig said.

“This new facility will cost $5 million and help meet the recreational and sporting needs of what is a rapidly growing community, with a large number of young people.”

“Without our substantial financial contribution, this important local project would not now be so close to becoming a reality.”

Somerset Regional Council will construct and fit-out the centre on an 8.1 hectare it owns within the Fernvale recreational precinct, co-located with existing outdoor sporting facilities.

The facility will cater for a range of sporting activities including gymnastics, netball, indoor soccer, basketball, volleyball, indoor bowls and martial arts.

“Our historic Community Infrastructure Program is supporting jobs and stimulating local economies during the global economic recession, while at the same time putting in place vital community infrastructure,” Senator Ludwig said.

The funding announced today builds on almost $370,000 being provided to the Council for local infrastructure projects.

Media Contact

Joe Scavo — 0413 800 757 or (02) 6277 7200.