Bowen's newest conference and event space, Flagstaff Hill Cultural and Conference Centre, has been officially opened by Queensland Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Andrew Willcox.
The $4 million Flagstaff Hill complex has made a significant contribution to local jobs and the Palaszczuk Government's Covid-19 Economic Recovery Plan for the region
Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the cultural centre would be a terrific boost for Bowen.
"The new Flagstaff Hill complex replaces the old centre which was damaged beyond repair four-years-ago when Cyclone Debbie came to town, "Mr Hinchliffe said.
"With views, the new complex maximises the site's enormous potential.
"There's a cafe space, giftshop, floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor entertainment and a great function area.
"Up to 13 jobs and 20 subcontractor opportunities were supported by the project and a 25-tonne excavator used to rebuild better with a 750 mm concrete perimeter slab.
"The Flagstaff Hill Cultural and Conference Centre is a good example of what can be achieved when all three levels of Government work together in partnership for the benefit of the community."
The Palaszczuk Government contributed $2 million through the Building our Regions Program. $1 million was secured by the Queensland and Australian Government's jointly funded Tourism Recovery Fund, while Whitsunday Regional Council put a further $1 million into the Flagstaff Hill Centre.
Mayor Andrew Willcox said Flagstaff Hill was an iconic destination for residents and visitors, and the rebuild would deliver a significant boost to the existing visitor offerings in Bowen.
"Flagstaff Hill provides 360-degree views of the Whitsunday Islands, Coral Sea and Bowen hinterland," he said.
"The centre can cater for up to 200 patrons and is located next to a walking trail and lookout which informs visitors about the impact and legacy of our Indigenous community."
"The new Flagstaff Hill Cultural and Conference Centre will be a destination in its own right and showcase the best of our beautiful town."
Assistant Minister for Regional Tourism Michelle Landry said the rebuilt Cultural and Conference Centre would provide a valuable tourism drawcard for the region.
"This wonderful new venue will attract visitors to a range of events, festivals and indigenous tourism activities," Ms Landry said.
"Importantly, it will help the region's economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Our Government has proudly supported this project with funding from the Tourism Demand Driver Infrastructure Program.
"We continue to back the Whitsundays region and look forward to once again welcoming visitors from around the world when conditions allow".
