January 8, 2025
South Burnett CTC has announced plans for a $3.968 million redevelopment of its facilities at the Kingaroy Youth Park in Somerset Street.
The project – which the not-for-profit association hopes to start in July – will be jointly funded by CTC and the Federal Government.
Nationals Leader and Member for Maranoa David Littleproud confirmed a $1.984 million grant from the Growing Regions Program on Wednesday.
This will be matched dollar-for-dollar by CTC.
CTC CEO Jason Erbacher said the new buildings would be built on the site of the undercover area beside the skate park, which means CTC services can continue to be provided from the current buildings during construction.
The sheltered area would be dismantled with the aim of it being re-erected elsewhere on the site at a later date.
The new buildings would include five interview rooms, an administration area, a storage area for emergency relief supplies as well as much-needed office space.
An amenities block and lunch room would also be built for staff.
Jason said the aim was to create a warm, welcoming and open space for clients.
Local trades will be used as far as possible.
“We have already started talking to local builders and hope to have a tender out in April, ” Jason said.
He said the redevelopment was an example of CTC investing in both its staff and the community.
The added space was vital because CTC offices were “bursting at the seams”.
In May last year, the organisation had 240 staff; this had now grown to just over 270.
“It is much-needed to support the continued growth of the service,” Jason said.
“We have taken on six new contracts, mostly involving homelessness and youth residential care.”
Jason said the aim was to have construction finished by June 30, 2026.
Pre-lodgment meetings have already been held with the South Burnett Regional Council, with a Development Application to be submitted soon.
“South Burnett CTC does extraordinary work in supporting our young people through housing and social programs and these funds will go towards stage one of its Kingaroy Youth Park Development,” Mr Littleproud said.
“The funds will support the construction of a new reception centre, landscaping and car parking that will address capacity issues, meet community demand and improve community and staff safety.”
