Plans to build a PCYC in Beaudesert have moved a step closer, with an additional $1m in funding increasing the State Government’s total commitment to the project to $10.7m.
The push for a PCYC has been years in the making.
The community-led campaign began in September 2020 through the Beaudesert Chamber of Commerce before incorporating as Youth and Community Centre (YACC) Beaudesert in June 2021.
It marked the community’s third attempt to secure a PCYC for the district after previous efforts failed to gain the necessary support.
Member for Scenic Rim Jon Krause said the project had been more than a decade in the making.
“Right from the very first community meeting, I have strongly backed a PCYC for Beaudesert because I know the Beaudesert community has strongly backed it,” he said.
“This is a monumental outcome for Beaudesert and the Scenic Rim, and a testament to the persistence and hard work of all those who have advocated for it over a long time.”
Mayor Tom Sharp also acknowledged the dedication of the community members who had championed the project.
“It has been a long journey for local voices in advocating for a PCYC facility to be established in Beaudesert,” he said.
“I can only pass on my congratulations to the many supporters and advocates of our region and see the project through to fruition.”
YACC president John Powell has been a driving force behind the community’s successful campaign to bring a PCYC to the district.
He said he was pleased to see years of advocacy delivering results for a facility the community had long needed.
“From the point of view of YACC, we’ve worked very hard for it and we’re very pleased to see it come to fruition,” he said.
“You’ve only got to talk to the welfare agencies, the police and others to know what the need is in the community.
“There’s so much positivity around this now.”
The PCYC will feature a 24-hour gym and fitness centre, two basketball courts and a range of sport, recreation and youth programs.
Construction is expected to begin before the end of the year, with the facility expected to open in 2027.
