The Soldiers' Memorial Hall in Toowoomba will receive a major upgrade, following the successful announcement of funding earlier today (7 March).
Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Paul Antonio said the funding, under the Federal Government's Building Better Regions Fund, was a boost not just for the hall, but the entire community.
"This heritage-listed building was originally built by the community and is an important part of our history in Toowoomba," he said.
"It has been a long-time goal for Council to get external support for this project and with this funding we will finally be able to begin the journey."
In total the Federal Government will contribute $2 million through the Building Better Regions Fund, with Toowoomba Regional Council matching the funding commitment for stage one of the upgrade.
"With this contribution, we will be able to start work in the not too distant future, which is more than we expected," Mayor Antonio said.
"The upgrade is a multi-staged refurbishment of the building with the initial stage focusing on the maintenance and repair of the entire building, as well as upgrading the front portion of the building.
"The roof restoration works is one of the largest elements addressed in the first stage and the amenities will also undergo a major upgrade.
"These improvements will provide better service for the community groups which currently occupy this space and the ability to increase usability for patrons of the hall.
"This is a long-term investment which seeks to preserve the rich heritage of the building far into the future.
"We want the building to be a place that people enjoy which is safe, offers high amenity, is healthy and accessible and most importantly, promotes a sense of community as a gathering space or meeting place.
"There is no doubting the importance of this facility and I would like to thank the Federal Member for Groom John McVeigh for ensuring funding was made available to assist with the refurbishment of the hall.
"While this funding will allow us to undertake stage one of works, Council will again be approaching RSL Queensland to become involved and play a part in the funding of future stages for the hall."
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