The doors to the $2.5 million Whitsunday Maritime Training Centre are expected to open within the next month, offering Airlie Beach the facilities to complement its already thriving marine industry.
Located at the Whitsunday Sailing Club (WSC), the new centre will include five training rooms that can each accommodate up to 30 students.
There will also be a large lecture theatre that can seat 100 and an ocean view function space for up to 60 people.
Previously, the WSC’s training arm was outgrowing its facilities and General Manager, Robin Ross, said he is excited to bring it all together.
“Training has been getting bigger and bigger and there has been more demand than ever before,” he explains.
“Now we’ll have more space, and we’ll have the rooms laid out for specific classes such as radar equipment for plotting and charting, and a dedicated engine room.”
Construction of the new facility began in December 2021 and the new building will become an impressive new landmark.
The main entrance to the WSC will also become the reception to the Whitsunday Maritime Training Centre, high vaulted ceilings and an expansive window looking out to sea, are the key features of the welcoming reception lobby.
Mr Ross says the construction of the centre is a tribute to local trades who have all completed the job to excellent standards.
“Thank you to all the local tradies, they’ve all been awesome!”
The impressive floor to ceiling windows greet guests as they arrive at the new centre. Photo supplied
