More upgrades delivered for Schotia Place

Published on 01 June 2018

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Council has been able to protect a key part of Rockhampton’s heritage listed Schotia Place, thanks to the State Government’s Works for Queensland Program.

More than $20,000 was spent stripping, sanding and polishing the timber floors, which have been considerably worn down over the years.

Member for Rockhampton, Barry O’Rourke, said he was pleased that the State Government was able to help preserve the character of the building.

“The hugely-popular Works for Queensland program is delivering terrific results for jobs and regional economies throughout Central Queensland,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“Since kicking off in 2017, councils are reporting that W4Q has already supported 925 jobs in Central Queensland – well in excess of the local government estimated 816 local jobs the program was forecast to generate.

“W4Q will pump almost $48.3 million into 153 approved Local Government projects which are transforming communities throughout Central Queensland.”

“Schotia Place is a real community asset, and it’s fantastic that the Works for Queensland Program has provided the funds needed to repair and preserve the wooden flooring.

“Schotia Place is a beautiful building in the heart of Rockhampton, and it is crucial we continue to maintain facilities like this not only to preserve our heritage but to ensure it remains a focal point for the community.

“This is in addition to the State Government’s contribution of almost $300,000 for the air conditioning project which was completed last year.

“We are committed to investing in Central Queensland, and we will continue to invest in projects large and small across the Rockhampton Region,” Mr O’Rourke said.

Acting Mayor Councillor Tony Williams said Council had invested over $360,000 in Schotia Place over the past three years to carry out restoration works, including roof repairs and interior upgrades.

“We needed to take action to protect and prolong the life of this wonderful facility and we are very grateful to the State Government for providing the funds to make this possible,” Cr Williams said.

Councillor Drew Wickerson said Schotia Place is a key facility in delivering the services that help bind the social fabric of our community together.

“Schotia Place also houses the offices for the Central Queensland Home Assist program that Council delivers to five local government areas across CQ, with funding from the State and Australian governments,” Cr Wickerson said.