$4.4m civic centre a boon for Esk

ESK'S cultural scene is set to receive a huge boost with the announcement that $4.4 million will be spent on a new 350-seat civic centre.

Esk’s Lyceum Hall, which burnt down last May, will be replaced by the newly announced $4.4 million Somerset Civic Centre. . Picture: File

ESK'S cultural scene is set to receive a huge boost with the announcement of a new 350-seat civic centre yesterday.

The Federal Government announced it would provide $2 million towards a replacement for the Lyceum Hall, which burnt down last May, from the Regional Development Australia Fund.

The $4.4m project will include an auditorium with stage, backstage areas, dressing rooms, multi-function rooms and amenities.

Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said the centre would be a huge boon for Esk.

"The community has been crying out for this for a long time," he said. "It's a terrific outcome.

"You're going to see national and international attractions and conventions coming to the Somerset region now. This will make a huge difference to the local tourism industry."

Mr Neumann said the centre's location near major populations and attractions such as Lake Wivenhoe and Somerset Dam would make it an attractive option for conferences.

"Out of the fire of the Lyceum Hall over a year ago, and through this past summer of floods, will come a new facility to service the entire Somerset Region and beyond," he said.

"Somerset's location, close to Brisbane and Ipswich, combined with its natural attractions, ensures its potential for growth.

"The new centre will enhance the liveability of the region and help to attract new residents and business investment."

The remaining $2.2m will be paid from the Somerset Regional Council and money received from insurance. The centre was one of only 34 projects chosen for RDAF funding from more than 500 applicants.

Federal Minister for Regional Australia Simon Crean, who announced the funding yesterday, said the centre would not only prove a tourist attraction but another safe haven for the flood-hit community.

"The centre will also provide further options for a disaster co-ordination centre and community evacuation centre in the Esk area," he said.

The centre, set for completion in late 2012, will be in the Esk CBD.

Originally published as $4.4m civic centre a boon for Esk