Mary Cairncross building upgrade moves to next phase

The Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve Building Renewal project has moved to the next phase with Council committing funds to enable construction to begin this year.

Council has also called for tenders to appoint a contractor to deliver the construction phase.

Division 5 Cr Jenny McKay said she was very excited that construction on the world-class discovery centre should begin this year.

“Council’s building upgrade budget has been supported by $1 million from the Queensland Tourism Infrastructure Fund, an initiative under the Australian Government’s Tourism Demand-Driver Infrastructure programme, administered by the Queensland Government through the Department of Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games,” Cr McKay said.

“The Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve Management Committee has also raised $250,000 in gold coin donations which will go towards the construction budget as well.

“This is fantastic news for the Management Committee, The Friends of Mary Cairncross and the volunteers and tourism groups who have all worked closely with Council to develop the design and are eagerly awaiting construction to begin.

“The project includes a new Discovery Centre, cafe, gift shop, elevated viewing platform, meeting theatrette, conservation research area and offices and amenities for the hard-working volunteers and staff who run the information desk 365 days of the year.”

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is highly recognised as a regional icon for its significant conservation values and has been a popular destination for residents and visitors for more than 50 years.  It attracts about 200,000 people annually.

A temporary café building will be located on site during construction.