Local contractor selected to deliver landmark public space in Dalby

26 May 2022

Western Downs contractor New State Builders have been selected to construct the landmark revitalisation of 120 Cunningham Street at Dalby.

The project will see the former Mary’s Commercial Hotel transformed into a vibrant and modern community space for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh said the appointment of New State Builders greenlighted construction for the project, which was an exciting step forward.

“We know the community has been itching to see progress on site, and we’re delighted to announce local construction company New State Builders as the successful tenderer for this major project in our region,” Cr McVeigh said.

“This project is about bringing a ‘wow’ factor to Cunningham Street to drive economic activity in Dalby’s CBD while also boosting the liveability of the region by offering a vibrant space for people to meet and enjoy.

“An important feature of this project is the way in which we will pay tribute to Mary Barry through the delivery of a ‘front bar’ seating structure, along with Mary Barry’s famous phrase ‘Happy Days Luv’ to also feature prominently.

“One of the other key components of the revitalisation is the delivery of outdoor projector screens which will have the ability to display digital art and convert into an outdoor cinema for community movie nights and regional promotion.

“The project will also include vibrant arbours, colourful lighting, carefully selected flowers, shrubs and trees to suit our climate, a range of seating, tables, water misting fans to cool the area down, and space for food trucks and market stalls

“We look forward to working with New State Builders to see these exciting designs come to life over coming months.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Local Government Steven Miles said the Queensland Government was proud to support the redevelopment with $1.5 million from the Works for Queensland program.

“The Works for Queensland initiative is designed to support projects like the revitalisation of 120 Cunningham Street, improving liveability and creating jobs in the process,” Mr Miles said.

“Through the program, Western Downs Regional Council has been allocated $10.58 million to help deliver 32 community infrastructure projects.

“These projects have already supported or created 870 jobs, with more to come, which a fantastic result for the local economy and for local families.”

New State Builders Director Tony Carmichael said it was great to be named successful tenderer for the project and was eager to get construction underway.

‘Everyone has been talking about this project and it’s a great opportunity for us as local people to showcase our skills,” Mr Carmichael said.

“Being local, we understand the importance of this block of land with the iconic Commercial Hotel and Mary Barry, and to have the opportunity to do something like this in your own community is always something to feel proud of.”

Construction is expected to commence in June, with the project expected to take around 12 months to complete

The project is being delivered in partnership with the Queensland Government’s Works 4 Queensland Program.

For more information contact Council on 1300 COUNCIL (1300 268 624) or visit https://www.wdrc.qld.gov.au/living-here/our-communities/major-projects/120-cunningham/ 

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