Mill Gallery in Yeppoon will soon be expanded and upgraded after receiving $250,000 in funding through Round 4 of the Palaszczuk Government's successful $295 million Building our Regions (BoR) program.
The development project is also being supported with $250,000 from Livingstone Shire Council, bringing total funding to $500,000.
Member for Keppel and Assistant Education Minister Brittany Lauga said the development will boost the local economy through increased visitor numbers, and provide greater support for artists.
"This project further fosters economic recovery in the wake of cyclones Marcia and Debbie when Yeppoon was very heavily impacted," Mrs Lauga said.
"The expansion and upgrade will encourage additional visitors to the gallery, which will also have a positive flow-on effect for surrounding local businesses.
"The gallery is expected to support up to 50 local artists and provide them with the opportunity to commercialise their efforts.
"Council estimates two jobs will be supported during the construction phase of the project, with the potential for new jobs in the long-term off the back of greater patronage."
Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said Yeppoon will get great value from the improvements.
"These works will enrich the community through the many arts and cultural activities created off the back of this expansion," Mr Dick said.
"The Palaszczuk Government is proud to fund projects that will contribute to Queensland communities and ensure our regions continue growing stronger."
Livingstone Shire Council Mayor Bill Ludwig said the development would have cultural, tourism and economic benefits for the region.
"It will help boost options for visitors to the region, along with opportunities for our local community to strengthen our passionate creative industry," Mr Ludwig said.
Round 4 of Building our Regions will see the Palaszczuk Government partner with 37 councils on 49 projects – work which will create an estimated 657 jobs.
Under previous rounds, the program has allocated $225 million to 174 critical infrastructure projects across the state, generating 1762 jobs and attracting additional investment of $353.5 million from councils and other organisations.
Learn more about the Building our Regions program.
