The Gold Coast Cultural Precinct at Evandale has entered its first stage of construction, with the initiative expected to create 120 jobs for Queenslanders.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate and City of Gold Coast Chief Executive Officer Dale Dickson joined Colin Kitto of managing contractor ADCO Constructions at the project site to announce the benefits of the $37 million development.
Mr Tate oversaw the initial construction, which took place at the site of the empty Surfers Paradise Administration Building. The first phase began with work on external roofing near the decommissioned centre, but the mayor confirmed the project will ramp up over the new few months.
“By July this year, the site will be cleared, and earthworks will follow in preparation for construction to commence in October on the focal point of Stage 1 – the city’s new outdoor amphitheatre with sweeping concert lawn, along with artscape works,” he explained.
ADCO Constructions is also scheduled to begin renovations on the Riverside Hub, which will result in an expanded AA-rated art gallery. Mr Tate said the building is a key element in the precinct’s transformation, adding that it will be used for international, national and local exhibitions.
Job opportunities on the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is undergoing many redevelopment projects ahead of the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Earlier this year, Mr Tate said these schemes are creating a “jobs bonanza” in the region.
As businesses look to hire more staff, some employers may begin seeking Gold Coast apprentices and trainees to fill crucial skills gaps within their organisations. Trades- and tourism-based apprenticeships and traineeships are likely to be particularly popular as the Gold Coast prepares for population and visitor growth.
Discussing the Cultural Precinct, Mr Tate said the project would provide a number of long-term benefits for the Gold Coast, including more jobs and a better arts scene.
“A Local Industry Participation Plan will be implemented to maximise benefits to local businesses and job seekers,” he added.
“Of the 120 jobs during construction, the plan will ensure a minimum of 80 per cent of jobs will be delivered to local businesses and employees, either directly or, where necessary, in partnership with external experts.”
The mayor said Stage 1 of the precinct would be a significant draw for tourists, attracting 300,000 visitors per year once completed. He added that the development would also provide $11.4 million in tourism spending to the regional economy.
By Leanne Macnamara, Public Relations Coordinator
