October 2, 2020
The State Government has announced it will invest $40 million in a plan to develop Queensland’s largest entertainment precinct at Wellcamp.
The Wagner family’s proposed $175 million Wellcamp Entertainment Precinct would incorporate a motorsport complex and a 40,000-person performing arts venue.
Wagner Corporation has committed to invest $95 million towards the project and is seeking $40 million support from the Federal Government.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said on Friday the plan had the potential to revolutionise the economy of Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.
“The Wagner family’s record of delivering world-class projects, especially in this region, is without peer,” the Premier said.
“Their vision, imagination and drive to succeed has turned paddocks into an international airport and trade distribution centre that, with the support of my Government, is also home to the Qantas Group Pilot Academy.
“Now, the Wagners are ready to take Wellcamp to an entirely to new level.”
Treasurer Cameron Dick called on the Federal Government to match Queensland’s contribution to ensure the Wellcamp Entertainment Precinct could become a reality.
“This project would support 130 jobs during construction and up to 2500 jobs when hosting major events,” the Treasurer said.
“The Palaszczuk Government supports the project with $40 million and today we call on the Federal Government to match this.”
Wagner Corporation chairman John Wagner said the group was keen to start construction early next year to help kickstart the economy post-COVID-19.
The proposed Wellcamp Entertainment Precinct would include:
- The “Will Power Centre for Motorsport and Driver Training Excellence” – a world-class facility catering for all levels of motorsport from amateur club racing through to professional events; road safety training, driver education, vocational training opportunities; and
- A 40,000-person venue for music festivals and major events, business tourism and event facilities; and
- 5000 person on-site accommodation.
Community consultation and planning approvals would be required before any works start.
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The Treasurer said the Wellcamp Entertainment Precinct was “a perfect fit” for the State Government’s new Darling Downs Regional Economic Recovery Plan, also announced on Friday.
This Plan collates new and previously announced projects, including:
- $13.9 million to widen and strengthen key sections of the New England Highway between Yarraman and Toowoomba
- $16.7 million expansion of the John Dee meat facility at Warwick
- $3.3 million investment to deliver an agtech and logistics hub in Toowoomba; Global Agrifood Innovation Centre (GAFIC) Ltd has been named as the preferred supplier.
- $10 million to support the regional trade hub, focusing on exports
- $1 billion roads stimulus package
- $21 million James Street upgrade at East and West creeks, Toowoomba
- $11 million to replace the single-lane concrete Rocky Creek Bridge on Murphy’s Creek Road as part of a $100 million commitment announced earlier this year to upgrade regional and rural bridges across Queensland.
