Defence sells another rifle range
Assistant Minister for Defence David Fawcett and the Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien announced today that the Department of Defence had entered into a contract with the Fraser Coast Regional Council for the sale of the Maryborough Rifle Range through an off-market sale process.
“This is a great outcome for Maryborough, the local community and Defence,” Assistant Minister Fawcett said.
“The 190-hectare site provides an opportunity for civilian rifle clubs to have space for competitions using the rifle range to occur.
“The sale of Maryborough Rifle Range demonstrates the government’s commitment to unlocking surplus Commonwealth properties for uses that support the Australian community.”
Mr O’Brien said this was a good outcome for the Wide Bay community.
“A sale to the council is a good outcome for the community and will ensure that such competitions, which have been a long-standing activity in the region, recommence enabling existing rifle clubs to grow and generate new membership”, Mr O’Brien said.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the council had been working closely with Defence to re-open the rifle range.
“Having the facility operational again will be a great boost for the region,” Mayor Seymour said.
“Maryborough is home to several champions, so re-opening the range will provide an opportunity for locals to hone their skills as well as mentor up-and-coming champions.
“It will give the clubs using the facility the ability to hold events with the potential to attract visitors to our region, boosting both our sporting prowess and tourism industries.”
The Maryborough Rifle and Pistol Club had been using the range since the 1960, but were forced to close it in 2012, shortly after launching a campaign to transfer ownership.
Defence and the Fraser Coast Regional Council expect to finalise the sale of the property by the end of May 2019.
Defence said “proceeds from the sale will be reinvested in support of the Australian Defence Force”.
A similar sale in Mackay recently fetched $1.
RELATED STORY: Defence sells 170-hectare rifle range for $1
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