First tenant moves into Paraburdoo Community Hub

The first tenant has moved into the Paraburdoo Community Hub this week, beginning a weeks-long transition process before the facility opens to the public early next year.

The $15.7 million community and sports centre has almost reached practical completion and Paraburdoo Lifestyle Centre, the operators of the new gym, were the first to move in on Monday.

Centre gym co-ordinator Skye Baxter said the centrally located hub was a big improvement on the business’ former premises.

“There’s heaps more space and it’s nice and clean and fresh,” she said.

“It’s a lot more modern and it really does look like a gym.”

Ms Baxter said moving into the building was an exciting moment for the centre and wider Paraburdoo community.

“I know everyone’s really been looking forward to this and we have been hammered with questions (about the move) for months, so the fact the moment is finally here and the hub is all done is really good,” she said.

Other tenants, including Karingal Neighbourhood Centre, the Paraburdoo Toy Library and Paraburdoo Squash and Racquet Club, will move in from the start of next year.

The gym has already opened for members to use, but the rest of the hub will only open to the public once all the tenants have moved in.

Construction on the Paraburdoo community hub began in October 2017 and the completed facility will also include a multipurpose sports court, poolside and oval amenities and resurfaced netball courts.

The project was funded by the Shire of Ashburton, Rio Tinto and Royalties for Regions through the State Government’s Pilbara Development Commission.

Shire president Kerry White said that the arrival of the hub’s first tenants was a milestone for the town.

“The new hub will make a positive difference to the community and provides a greater range of facilities for social events and sports and recreation,” she said.

Rio Tinto Paraburdoo Operations general manager Kent Franey said the greater amenities offered by the facility could drive long-term social benefits in town.

“The development of the hub creates the ability to encourage greater social participation that fosters opportunity and a more connected community,” he said.

“It will enhance the liveability and vibrancy of Paraburdoo by supporting programs and vital services that generate a sense of belonging to the town.”

Pilbara Development Commission chief executive Terry Hill said good-quality infrastructure was vital to quality of life in regional areas.

“The Paraburdoo community hub is more than just a building, it will become the heart of the town as a place people connect, learn and grow together,” he said.

“It’s great to see the first stages of the new hub opening to the community.”

An official opening for the hub is expected to be held next year.