Work is expected to start in late 2010 on a new adventure-based learning centre for young people and the local community at Redlynch near Cairns.

“The Northern Outlook centre will provide a first-class, modern recreation and training facility in a bushland setting for young people, community groups and its neighbours,” Ms Struthers said.

“Northern Outlook will run adventure-based learning programs for vulnerable young people –- kids who may be dealing with issues like family break up, family violence or homelessness.

“Adventure based learning can include a range of activities and expeditions such as canoeing, hiking, challenge rope courses, sea kayaking, abseiling, arts and rock climbing.

“It’s all designed to help young people build confidence and experience supportive adult relationships and role models.”

Member for Barron River Steve Wettenhall said the decision had been made to proceed with the project after extensive consultation with the local community.

“We received a number of public submissions and there was an overwhelmingly positive response,” Mr Wettenhall said.

“The vast majority of people who provided input were complementing the Northern Outlook Program and the great work staff do with young people to help them get their lives back on track.

“The program already operates out of the Cairns CBD and this new site will allow them to provide more opportunities for young people.

“The feedback were getting from organisations who work with Northern Outlook is that they’re achieving what they set out to do with young people.”

“We’re looking at having a maximum of two small groups with up to 10 participants on-site at the same time or one class size group of about 28 students for school groups.”

Pat Flanagan, who lives immediately next door to the site, said the facility will be great addition to the local area.

“It’s a significant resource for the Redlynch and Cairns communities,” Mr Flanagan said.

“A lot of people are moving to this part of Cairns and the way Northern Outlook has been designed will make sure the ambiance of the area is maintained.”

Tenders will soon be called for Stage 1 and construction and development is expected to take about 7 months and create 20 fulltime employment opportunities.

Stage 1 development includes an administrative office for nine full time staff, with a conference room, a fulltime caretaker’s residence, two equipment sheds and activity infrastructure such as ropes course and camping areas.

The future Stage 2 development will include an Activity Centre and Training Room.

An accommodation building may also be built in the future for adult training and conferences.

It is anticipated the community will be allowed regular access to a range of activities such as weekly rock climbing nights in the indoor activity centre.

Community groups, clubs, schools and churches will also have access to the facility.