Blackall Cultural Precinct

The Blackall Cultural Precinct is a major regional development being delivered by Blackall-Tambo Regional Council in partnership with Red Ridge Interior Queensland Ltd and supported by the Stockwell‑Webber Foundation. The precinct will provide a dedicated space for the preservation and display of local art, heritage items, and culturally significant memorabilia from the Blackall and Tambo regions.

Location: Shamrock Street, Blackall
Estimated Project Cost: Up to $30 million

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Project Origins

The precinct was initiated by Owen Stockwell OAM, head of the Stockwell‑Webber Foundation, and Louise Campbell from Red Ridge. They envisioned a facility to support the long-term preservation of historical items and provide exhibition spaces for the community.

Funding and contributions include:

  • $3 million each from Blackall-Tambo Regional Council and Red Ridge Interior Queensland Ltd

  • $14,876,000 (reported later as $14.96 million) from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program

Project Milestones

  • December 2024: Project approval announced, including the precinct concept and museum design.

  • June 6, 2025: "Turning of the Sod" Ceremony officially marked the start of the project.

  • July 14, 2025: Stage 1 construction commenced.

  • March 2026: Site preparation, fill import, and underground services installation underway. Construction of the storage sheds is scheduled to continue, with practical completion of Stage 1 expected in early 2026.

 

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Project Stages

Stage 1 – Infrastructure and Collections Storage

  • Two collection storage sheds to house items of historical significance

  • Headworks and infrastructure for precinct services

  • Driveways and car parking to support future public access

  • Landscaping and associated infrastructure for Stage 2

Stage 1 is being delivered by Newlands Construction Pty Ltd (Toowoomba). Project management is led by Blackall-Tambo Regional Council’s Assets and Major Projects Manager, Mr. Sidney Russell.

Stage 2 – Cultural and Public Spaces

  • Expanded exhibition spaces for community and visitor engagement

  • Development of the museum garden

  • Additional public carparking and landscaping

When completed, the precinct will serve as a regional cultural attraction, supporting tourism, preserving heritage, and providing spaces for community events and cultural activities.

Partnerships

  • Red Ridge Interior Queensland Ltd – Creative and community partner, supporting program development and precinct planning

  • Stockwell‑Webber Foundation – Philanthropic support and project advocacy

  • Blackall-Tambo Regional Council – Project lead and funding recipient, delivering the precinct in partnership with Red Ridge

Regular updates, including construction progress and milestones, will be provided as the precinct is delivered.

For further information:
Blackall-Tambo Regional Council
Phone: (07) 4621 6600
Website: www.btrc.qld.gov.au

 

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