The New Year will bring with it the completion of another jewel in the crown of Townsville with the North Queensland Cowboys Community, Training and High-Performance Centre just weeks away from handover.
Inspecting the site today as the project nears completion, Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the Palaszczuk Government invested $5 million in the project creating 213 full time jobs during construction.
"This three-storey facility, located next to Queensland Country Bank stadium, will include high performance training facilities, office space for staff and allied health professionals, the James Cook University Sport and Exercise Science unit, plus a full length training field," said Mr Hinchliffe.
"It is fantastic to see this project move from vision to reality and with the next NRL season on the horizon, 2021 will be a big year for the Cowboys.
"Having access to world-class facilities like these will not only benefit high-performance athletes based in Townsville, but those travelling intra-state, nationally and from around the globe, post COVID.
"It's yet another drawcard for Townsville with the city growing its sport and tourism industries.
"The centre creates opportunities for those chasing a career in high performance away from the field, with plans for specialist under-graduate learning and future research collaborations with JCU."
Mr Jeff Reibel, Chief Executive Officer for the North Queensland Cowboys said the support of the Queensland Government was vital to ensure the success of this project.
"It goes without saying that we are grateful for the financial contribution of the state government to the development of this facility and their commitment to this project.
"The real hard work begins once doors open and we're ready to start delivering on outcomes for our players, the community and stakeholders alike."
Mr Hinchliffe said the project is on target to reach practical completion in January 2021.
"The facility has been developed with Townsville residents in mind and seeing benefits reach further than elite athletes by generating jobs and economic growth."
