Member for Greenslopes Joe Kelly has joined Education Minister Grace Grace in turning the first sod on a $10 million multi-storey performing arts centre at Cavendish Road State High School.
Mr Kelly and Ms Grace also inspected progress on the construction of a $7 million sports complex, which is expected to be finished next month.
"The performing arts centre and sports complex make up an overall infrastructure investment of $17 million at the school which is fantastic for both the students and the local economy," Ms Grace said.
"The contract for the performing arts centre has been awarded to Bryant Constructions and will create 27 full-time jobs, while the construction of the sports complex is being carried out by Hutchinson Builders and is supporting 18 full-time jobs.
"Jobs are Annastacia Palaszczuk's number one priority. We're taking action across the state to boost our economy and ensure that it's Queenslanders that benefit.
"As Education Minister, that means making sure schools are 2020 Ready by building the infrastructure we need."
Mr Kelly said the three-storey performing arts centre would be ready for the start of the 2020 school year.
"This brilliant performing arts centre is being made possible under the Palaszczuk Government's 2020 Ready Program and it will be a game-changer for students focused on a career in performing arts, creative arts and music," Mr Kelly said.
"It will feature a performance stage, complete with green room and dressing areas, multi-media learning area, four music classrooms, two drama areas, an ensemble rehearsal area and two musical practice spaces.
"For those students with a future in sound engineering or backstage management, an audio and editing annexe and recording room will be also be included.
"Staff rooms, offices, teacher conference areas, amenities, storage, equipment rooms and associated support areas will be incorporated in the centre."
Two old music studios in Block K are also set to be converted into two new classrooms as part of the project.
Cavendish Road State High School Principal Richard Usher said the performing arts centre and sports complex would take the school's facilities to the next level.
"We are most grateful to the State Government for making these investments in our school, which will enable us to cater for the differing learning needs and interests of all our students," Mr Usher said.
"As Cavendish Road State High School's reputation continues to grow as a preferred secondary school, these new classrooms will give us the space necessary to accommodate our growing enrolments."
