The construction of the Bendigo Islamic Community Centre will provide a boost for local tradies, as well as construction and supply companies.

Bendigo company Searle Bros has won the contract to build the Bendigo Islamic Community Centre and has started work on the two-storey multi-purpose building, to be used for activities such as meetings, educational events and social, interfaith and wider community gatherings.

Further stages will include the prayer hall – which will house up to 375 worshipers – car park and traffic works, the impressive central courtyard, library, funeral and classroom facilities, a sports hall, café, minaret and caretaker’s residence.

Searle Bros has taken over the site and has begun constructing the shell of the multi-purpose building.

Further stages include the prayer hall – which will house up to 375 worshipers – car park and traffic works, the impressive central courtyard, library, funeral and classroom facilities, a sports hall, café, minaret and caretaker’s residence.

“The construction will provide a number of employment opportunities for local builders and subcontractors, as well as local suppliers, over the course of the build,” Searle Bros Director Travis Nicholson said.

“The project will directly involve about 50 separate trade suppliers, contractors and consultants and we will aim to use locals first, where possible.

“Indirectly the trades suppliers and contract personnel involved will grow into the many hundreds.”

Mr Nicholson said Searle Bros management and staff were honoured to be chosen to build the Bendigo Islamic Community Centre.

“Everyone at our company is excited to be involved in this project, what it means for the local Islamic community and what it means for Bendigo,” he said.

“All our staff are champing at the bit to be involved. This is an impressive building and it is an honour to play a part in making it happen.”