The Shire of Coolgardie in Western Australia is embracing its biggest change period since the Western Mining Corporation revitalised its old mining town, Kambalda, in the 1960s.
Council aims to create a ‘new heart for Kambalda’ through the development of the Kambalda Community and Recreation Centre. This $13.55 million project will transform the Kambalda community, which has a population of approximately 3,500 people, by creating a public place that will embrace and nurture culture, recreation and leisure.
The centre will see the co-location of the town’s library, telecentre, visitors centre, community gymnasium, seniors hub, and a new 50 place licensed day care facility.
It will also feature a cafe, a two court indoor stadium with stage facilities, and a multipurpose function centre capable of seating 400 people.
Council has received grants from the Federal and Western Australian Governments, LotteryWest and Tourism WA.
Mining companies and local businesses have also shown tremendous support for the project, with a corporate fundraising campaign raising more than $4 million. Council is contributing the balance through cash reserves, loan borrowings and allocations from existing budgets.
With many of Council’s facilities dating back to the 1960s, they are tired, worn and now in desperate need of replacement.
Coolgardie CEO, Mal Osborne, said this has influenced the Shire’s stagnating population, and the fact that many workers choose to drive in/drive out, or fly in/fly out rather than put down roots in the community that employs them.
“In order to encourage families to make their life in this region and to feel at home, there is an urgent need to create community and recreational facilities that feed that sense of community, and the expectations of families today,” he said.
“The community of Kambalda deserves facilities that will strengthen its community bonds, and encourage visiting workers to make this region home, rather than a transient place of work. The new Community and Recreation Centre will do just that. It will be a place where people of all ages will be encouraged to express themselves through a variety of interests, arts, culture and sporting activities.”
The planning phase has been completed and Council has sought expressions of interest from builders for the construction of the facility.
Tenders for construction were considered at the end of July, with construction expected to be completed within 12 months.
For further information contact Mal Osborne on (08) 9080 2111 or visit www.kambaldacentre.com.au
