Assistant Minister for Defence Senator David Fawcett, Assistant Minister for Children and Families and Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry and Federal Member for Dawson George Christensen announced the approval of the sale of the Mount Vince Rifle Range to Mackay Regional Council, via an off-market sale process.
Minister Fawcett said this was a great outcome for Mackay, the local community and the Department of Defence.
“The 170-hectare site will support a rural fire brigade depot and also provides an opportunity to reinstate shooting activities in the area for use by civilian rifle clubs.
“The sale of Mount Vince Rifle Range demonstrates the Government’s commitment to unlocking surplus Commonwealth properties for uses that support the Australian community.”
Mackay mayor Greg Williamson said the Council was pleased to help secure a future for target shooting in the Mackay region.
“We have been working closely with Mackay and District Target Rifle Association on this agreement and we are looking forward to working with them in the future now the contract has been signed,” Williamson said. “The range will be used by multiple clubs on a weekly basis and we are hopeful that this arrangement will allow the sport to continue to grow in our region.
“Being one of the few long distance shooting ranges in Queensland, it is also an attractive venue for major events that bring economic benefits to the region.”