Local contractor to lead Dalby Cultural Centre build
Published on 14 May 2026
Dalby-based construction company New State Builders has been appointed as head contractor for construction of the town's landmark new cultural centre.
The milestone marks a major step forward in the revitalisation of the Thomas Jack Park Precinct, with construction on the cultural centre's new library, art gallery, visitor information centre, multi-purpose cinema, and communal spaces expected to start in late May 2026 with anticipated opening in mid-2028.
The budget for the Dalby Cultural Centre is $72.285M and will be funded with $14.19 million support from the Queensland Government in association with Western Downs Regional Council.
Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Andrew Smith said the appointment of a local contractor to manage the construction of the new cultural facilities supported Council's commitment to advancing local industry and ensuring investment benefitted the regional economy.
"The appointment of New State Builders ensures the economic benefits of this iconic project flow directly back into our own community and local businesses.
"It means local expertise and local trades are at the heart of this once-in-a-generation project fostering a true sense of community pride and ownership.
"The detailed design reflects Dalby's unique identity as the gateway to the Western Downs and will seamlessly integrate cultural experiences with the landscape of Thomas Jack Park.
"Renowned Queensland architects OMA and Anna O'Gorman have collaborated with Council and the community to shape a design that truly reflects Dalby’s aspirations and character.
"We look forward to watching our community's vision come to life and will continue to keep residents informed as construction gets under way with the team from New State Builders."
New State Builders director Tony Carmichael said the company was proud to be delivering the Dalby Cultural Centre on behalf of Council.
"We are very honoured to have been chosen by Council to deliver the Dalby Cultural Centre," Mr Carmichael said.
"This project is especially meaningful for New State Builders, as my brothers and I completed our building apprenticeships here in Dalby around 40 years ago.
"To now be involved in a project of this scale in the town where our careers began is something we are extremely proud of.
"New State Builders has delivered major projects across Queensland, and we are looking forward to bringing that experience to Dalby.
"We hope to involve as many local contractors, trades, and suppliers as possible through the delivery of the project."
The new Dalby Cultural Centre is part of a broader revitalisation of the Thomas Jack Park Precinct which also includes a new adventure playground, water play area, flying fox, multipurpose court, contemporary amenities, seating, and gathering areas.
The Dalby Cultural Centre project is funded with the support of the Queensland Government in association with Western Downs Regional Council. The Thomas Jack Park & Play project is jointly funded by Western Downs Regional Council and the Queensland Government.
For more information contact Council on 1300 268 624 (COUNCIL) or visit www.wdrc.qld.gov.au.