STADIUM KICK- OFF
IT WAS 23 years ago that Mendi Construction was engaged to undertake the civil works for 1300SMILES Stadium. And from next week, the family- run business will place 30 locals on the ground to begin similar works for Townsville’s new stadium.
Mendi management joined the myriad politicians, Townsville City councillors, business people and dig- nitaries yesterday on the CBD site to celebrate the official turning of the sod.
The State and Federal governments were eager to tout the stadium as a catalyst for development while others welcomed the 450 jobs that will be created by June 2018.
Mendi Constructions managing director Jeff Doyle said it was an honour for the business and for his career.
“My father was instrumental in the development of 1300SMILES Stadium, now we’re part of this for the civil works,” he said.
“In terms of the business oppor- tunities, it’s not about the value of it, it’s the principle.”
Mr Doyle said five Mendi employees who had worked on the original stadium were now helping with the new infrastructure. “It’s not an opportunity people get often to build two stadiums,” he said.
Five trade packages have been announced with 90 local businesses having already been engaged.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the project had been brought forward a few months.
“I know how important it is to make sure that people here in this town get the opportunity for good jobs and good work,” Ms Palaszczuk said. “Of course I support a State of Origin being held here, I absolutely think it would be terrific to see an Origin played up here.”
The Premier said the stadium was a catalyst for further development.
However, she could not confirm if a new convention centre for Townsville was a priority.
“Let’s do one step at a time,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
Mayor Jenny Hill said Townsville would have a stadium that was equivalent to anywhere else in Australia. “It’s about Townsville surviving and continuing to grow again,” Cr Hill said. “This is just the first of a number of projects we want to bring to the community. We are turning the corner and there is confidence coming back.”
Assistant Minister for Cities Angus Taylor said great projects like the stadium reshaped cities.
“Townsville has much to gain from this project, not just in terms of wonderful games of rugby league but in terms of jobs and investment and opportunity,” Mr Taylor said.
Minister for State Development Anthony Lynham said the State Government wanted to get the jobs on the ground as quickly as possible.