Queensland Premier Anna Bligh and Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Anthony Albanese, today announced that Watpac has been appointed as the successful Managing Contractor of the Gold Coast’s new multi-million dollar AFL Stadium at Carrara.
Ms Bligh said Watpac progressed through a competitive tender process for the construction of what will no doubt be an iconic and unique venue, purpose built for our Queensland lifestyle.
“Companies were evaluated on a range of price and non-price criteria including prior experience and construction methodology,” she said.
“During construction it is expected that around 350 full-time equivalent positions will be created and that’s not including the jobs that will be created once the new AFL team joins the league in 2011.
Mr Albanese said that the Rudd Labor Government was serious about working with the Queensland Government and the Gold Coast City Council to cushion the impact of the current global recession and delivering jobs for south-east Queensland.
“I am pleased that we have been able to move so quickly to award the construction contract and get on with delivering this major piece of infrastructure on the Gold Coast.
The AFL Stadium at Carrara will support jobs now, increase tourism and build the infrastructure that the Gold Coast needs for the future.
The funding provided by all three levels of government will also kick-start a $200 million investment by the AFL over the next seven years in the development of the code in Queensland.
“Watpac bring a wealth of experience in stadia construction and we have no doubt they will build a venue that all Queenslanders can be proud of. Watpac managed the construction of Skilled Park at Robina, which is widely recognised by players, fans and sporting bodies as one of the best regional stadia in Australia.
“It’s also a bonus that a Queensland company has come out on top of the tender process – essentially meaning more jobs for Queenslanders.
“I would also like to acknowledge the significant funding contributions by the Gold Coast City Council ($20M), the Commonwealth Government ($36M) and the AFL ($10M) which together with the $60M State contribution bring the total project budget to $126M - a great example of the three levels of government working with a national sporting body to deliver significant civic infrastructure.
“One of the first tasks for Watpac will be to review progress on the design and provide significant input from a construction perspective.
“At this point it’s all about making sure the designers are working with the builders to ensure the project can be delivered on time and within budget.
“Based on Watpac’s track record we are confident that this can be achieved,” she said.
Member for Southport, Tourism Minister Peter Lawlor and also Member for Broadwater Peta-Kaye Croft welcomed the Stadium’s next milestone and its job-generating potential.
“For an average crowd of around 18,000 at Skilled Park, approximately 720 people are employed in and around the venue.
“And this does not include the thousands of extra staff put on at restaurants, bars and cafés during events,” they said.
The Premier said that it was extremely exciting as the project is going to provide a massive boost to the region, contributing around $340 million to the local economy over the next ten years.
“All this of course means more jobs for Queenslanders,” the Premier said.
