Maryborough Showgrounds main hall refurbishment

The $4.4 million refurbishment of the main hall at the Maryborough Showgrounds and Equestrian Park is underway.

Deputy Mayor Darren Everard said Council was committed to ensuring the showgrounds and equestrian park continued to be a focal point for large outdoor gatherings and events on the Fraser Coast for many years to come.

“Many groups use the facility; the Fraser Coast Agriculture Show Society run the annual show, it hosts the annual Lifeline Bookfest as well as an antique fair and is used by Rotary Clubs and schools to host educational events,” he said.

“Our aim is to ensure that it continues to attract large events such as lifestyle expos, caravan and RV rallies and car shows.

“The facility is a fantastic venue and there is great opportunity to attract even more events which would be a great boost for the regional economy.”

Cr Everard said the refurbishment of the main hall was one of the first projects in the Maryborough Showgrounds and Equestrian Park Strategic Plan to be undertaken.

“Structural inspections confirmed that the building has reached a point where maintenance is no longer effective or viable,” he said.

“While the steel frame of the building will be kept, the external walls and inside facilities (toilets and office space) will be demolished and rebuilt.”

The work is expected to take about six to seven months to complete.

Council has been in discussion with organisers of the 2022 Fraser Coast Agricultural Show and the Fraser Coast Expo to ensure these events can still go ahead in conjunction with the construction works.