Governor-general Sir Peter Cosgrove Opens Refurbished Tjapukai Facility

13th May 2015


The Tjapukai Indigenous cultural centre in Cairns was officially opened by the Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove following the $13 million redevelopment project completed by contractor FKG Group on the 12th May, 2015.

The 28-year-old refurbished tourism icon is a popular cultural and entertainment attraction for domestic and international visitors to Cairns.

Indigenous Business Australia, Chief Operating Officer, Leo Barter commented that the facility was the “most significant investment in indigenous tourism and entertainment in the country in many years” and it would soon become a must-see tourism attraction in Australia.


FKG Group undertook the 12-month refurbishment project which involved the major demolition and refurbishment of new theatres, restaurant and retail areas.

Daniel Suchanek, FKG Group Project Manager said, “We held regular meetings with the client and met with the performers prior to commencement of works to fully understand their project needs.”

To enable the facility to remain open throughout works, the project team undertook staged activities where sections remained open whilst others were being redeveloped.

“To ensure operations could continue with minimal disruption a robotic demolition machine was used to minimise dust and noise, following demolition the project team installed temporary office and operational facilities and ceased works during performances all helping to protect the client’s requirement to continue operation.”

“We strive to support the local community and industry we were committed to engaging local content and workers wherever possible and it is pleasing to report that we were able to secure 15% Indigenous labour content for the project,” said Daniel.

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