Harvey Norman’s ‘largest single investment in Qld’

The Harvey Norman Centre in Maroochydore will represent the company's largest single investment in Queensland, CEO Gerry Harvey said.

"We have had a presence on the Sunshine Coast for more than a decade, which has confirmed our belief in the potential of the South-East Queensland market – notwithstanding the current economic climate," he said.

Sunshine Coast Council Division 4 Councillor Chris Thompson said the Harvey Norman and Domayne store complex would attract thousands of shoppers to the area.

"We are attracting a wonderful range of commerce to the Boulevard, with Harvey Norman, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus and other high-quality businesses," he said.

"This is a significant jobs boost for the region, with an anticipated 350 new positions coming on line."

Mr Harvey said the company saw the consolidation and growth in the central Maroochydore precinct as an economic driver in its own right.

"The Harvey Norman Centre with an end value of around $130 million will provide a wide range of product in a competitive environment," he said.

"Harvey Norman itself will anchor the development with a full-range store of 8100 square metres and its other main brand, Domayne, will provide a more contemporary range of furniture and bedding of 4000sqm."

The operations will be supported by a company-owned warehouse about to commence construction at Kunda Park.

"This will inject around $15 million annually by way of wages," Mr Harvey said.

Building contractor ADCO said a number of local subcontractors are currently involved in the construction programme.

Sunshine Coast Council’s Economic Development Portfolio Councillor Lew Brennan, said Harvey Norman’s investment in Maroochy Boulevard was one of the biggest confidence-boosters for the region.

"Mr Harvey is known for his substantial business acumen and I think he’s right on the money here; we welcome his investment and optimism about the Sunshine Coast," he said.