The North Mackay Rotary Lookout will soon become a ‘must-see’ attraction for the city after the revitalisation project secured funding through Round 4 of the Palaszczuk Government’s successful $295 Building our Regions (BoR) program.
The $1,389,375 North Mackay Rotary Lookout upgrade will be jointly funded by state and local governments, with $694,687 provided through BoR and $694,688 from Mackay Regional Council.
Assistant Minister for State Development and Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the much-needed improvement works would re-establish the lookout as an iconic attraction along a scenic lookout trail being developed by council.
“Mackay boasts some spectacular views and the strategic placement of the Rotary Lookout offers visitors a great spot to take in our beautiful city and beyond,” Ms Gilbert said.
“The upgrade works will see the current observation deck replaced with an architecturally designed all-weather viewing platform, giving visitors a safe space to enjoy the view year-round.
“Council estimates eight jobs will be supported by the project during its construction.
“The delivery of this upgrade is a fantastic example of the community-focused outcomes that can be realised when local and state governments work together.”
Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said the Palaszczuk Government is invested in regional Queensland.
“By working with councils to identify the projects that will create local jobs and open up more opportunities, we are ensuring that regional communities right around our great state have the valuable infrastructure in place to forge ahead,” Mr Dick said.
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said drive tourism was a large financial contributor to the region so increasing visitor traffic was valuable.
“The scenic lookout trail will be a great way for visitors to check out Mackay’s fantastic scenery, and anything we can do to attract more visitors to the region is a win,” Mr Williamson said.
“Thanks to funding from the Queensland Government, the upgraded North Mackay Rotary Lookout will be a fantastic spot for residents and visitors to enjoy, rain, hail or shine.”
North Mackay Rotary spokesman Pat Crompton said the Rotary lookout is the only place which has an almost 360-degree view of Mackay and would attract many more tourists passing through the region.
“We believe this upgrade will turn the lookout into an iconic attraction and we are looking forward to seeing the finished product,” Mr Crompton said.
Round 4 of Building our Regions will see the Palaszczuk Government partner with 37 councils on 49 projects – work which will create an estimated 657 jobs.
Under previous rounds, the program has allocated $225 million to 174 critical infrastructure projects across the state, generating 1762 jobs and attracting additional investment of $353.5 million from councils and other organisations.
Learn more about the Building our Regions program.
