Local contractor Woollam Constructions has been awarded the contract to build the $31.5 million Rockhampton Art Gallery, which is estimated to support up to 180 jobs during the construction phase.
“It will be the stuff of legend - a project that our people will consider a legacy,” Woollam Constructions Managing Director Craig Percival said.
In addition, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk commended Woollam Constructions for its policy of utilising local content.
The Art Gallery project is jointly funded by the Queensland and Federal Governments and the Rockhampton City Council, with the State Government contributing $15 million towards the project.
“Although it will be a landmark in itself, the gallery is more than a building.
“It will be the showcase for Rockhampton’s hidden treasure - 400 significant works of Australia’s most significant artists,” the Premier said.
According to Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke, this project is a significant investment in the region’s future.
“This is a $31.5 million magnet that will draw a whole new kind of tourist to Rockhampton.
“This is about unlocking employment and investment opportunities for the city, with the development contributing to the revitalisation of the CBD and region,” Mr O’Rourke said.
Gallery owner Philip Bacon said that the collection at the Rockhampton Art Gallery will be the envy of collectors as well as museums across the globe.
“It is undoubtedly the finest collection of Australian art outside a capital city anywhere,” Mr Bacon said.
Once the Art Gallery opens its doors to the public, it is expected to draw more people to Quay Street.
“Four decades ago, Rex Pilbeam charges us, the future citizens of Rockhampton, to maintain and advance our gallery.
“When this art gallery is completed, we will have well and truly help up our end of the bargain,” Rockhampton Mayor Margaret Strelow said.
The new Rockhampton Art Gallery is anticipated to open in 2021.
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Source: Queensland Government; Woollam Constructions; The Hotel Conversation; Mirage News