Upgrades to Animal Management Centre underway with $385,000 State Government funding

Posted on February 25, 2025

Council’s Emerald Animal Management Centre will receive a complete transformation thanks to a $385,000 grant from the Queensland Government’s 2024-27 Works for Queensland Program.

The project, which is currently in the design finalisation stage, showcases a modernised design that reimagines the centre’s front and rear yards.

The revamped layout includes an increase in internal pens from 8 to 15, and external exercise areas will be expanded from 3 to 10 pens. New facilities will also include a dedicated storage area, and a suite of amenities such as a toilet, shower, veterinary room and office.

Specialised areas are being introduced to enhance the centre’s capability to manage animals effectively and safely. These additions include an animal quarantine area, 2 designated pens for dangerous dogs, and 2 overnight holding pens for rescue animals. The new layout also prioritises safe and efficient operations with designated vehicle loading and unloading areas.

‘This upgrade will transform our facility to create better functionality and a safer environment for our team despite the modest budget and limited space. It enables us to retrofit an existing site without the costly expense of constructing a purpose-built facility from scratch,’ said General Manager Communities Adrian Burns.

‘The design has incorporated inspiration from numerous councils across Australia and the upgraded centre will look nothing like the one we have today,’ he continued.

As the plans progress, residents can look forward to a modern facility that enhances animal management while ensuring the highest standards of care and safety.