CLUB MACLEAY GETS MAJOR FEDERAL GOVERNMENT GRANT TO FUND FIRST STAGE OF CLUB RENOVATIONS Major renovations at Club Macleay are to happen sooner rather than later thanks to a $267,022 Federal Government Grant. It is all thanks to the Building Better Regions Fund and will go towards the first stage of the club’s major planned renovations. The first stage will be the new front facade which will produce a user-friendly and disability-level entry to the club. “We are really excited about the news of the funding and thank Federal Member for Bowman, Andrew Laming, for his efforts,” club manager Julie Brooks said. Andrew Laming said the Federal Government’s investment will deliver better facilities and economic outcomes for the club and the island community. “We are delivering the services and infrastructure our community deserves,” Dr Laming said. “Improving disability access to Club Macleay will allow everyone to enjoy this wonderful facility, whilst creating more island jobs and boosting economic recovery.” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Barnaby Joyce, said the Government was working to make regions strong, particularly in regional and remote communities. Julie Brooks says: “The other stages of the club expansion are the second stage which will see a lift added to the deck area which will allow for members who may have difficulty walking or require wheelchair use, to be able to access the synthetic green. “This will aid the expansion of our green and the sport of bowls to a section of the community who may be either lonely or little infirm who might like to come and join the club via a the Club Macleay ‘Reach Out’ campaign,” the club manager said. The third and final stage will be the 10 metre deck extension across the front of the club, overlooking the brilliant club views of Moreton Bay towards the mainland. Further grants will be applied for to see much of the work carried out. Club president, Barry Reid, says the overall project has been in the planning phase for ‘some time’; with architectural plans being provided by Ashcroft Architecture. In total, the works could cost well in excess of $1 million. The list of work and changes include: • A new, modern facade (see picture); • A lift from the ground to first floor from bowls area; • Major 10 metre extensions right across the building toward the water, providing covered deck dining; • A new smokers’ area; • Freeing up existing deck for further dining; • New bowls meeting room.
• Federal Member for Bowman Andrew Laming making the announcement at the club with president Barry Reid.