NQ Stadium momentum builds with local survey work underway

Momentum continues to build for the North Queensland Stadium as local surveyors get to work on site ahead of two further Expressions of Interest (EOI) being released next week for the $250 million project.

Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke said the Palaszczuk Government was getting on with the job of delivering this state-of-the art stadium, and a local firm was already seeing the benefits.

“We know the stadium is a game changer for the north, and I want to see jobs created through this massive investment going to local contractors, local businesses and local families,” Mrs O’Rourke.

“I want a Stadium that is built for Townsville, by people from Townsville – this will boost confidence now and be an important legacy for the future.

“It’s great the initial site survey work this week is being carried out by local firm RPS Group, which will be used in the design development and master planning of the stadium precinct.

“There will be even more opportunity for locals when EOIs for Quantity Surveyors and Programmers open this Monday – just two weeks after release of EOIs for Principal Consultant.

“Industry interest in the project is already high with more than 400 businesses seeking information about the project since the initial EOI was released, and I encourage more local businesses to put their hat in the ring and find out more.”

Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said the Palaszczuk Government had developed the Strengthening North Queensland program to encourage and support local suppliers make the most of opportunities like the Stadium.

“We are running workshops, mentoring services and industry events to help local businesses to build their tendering and supply chain capabilities and expand their opportunities to win and conduct work on major projects in North Queensland,” Mr Stewart said.

“The first of the workshops will be held next week to provide local businesses with training on preparing effective capability statements.”

Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said now was the time for locals to get their business ready for the huge opportunities flowing to the region.

“We will be providing practical workshops to assist local businesses to prepare government tenders in coming weeks, with a full program of sessions on offer until December,” Mr Harper said.

“The Department of State Development’s website provides more information and dates about the first round of workshops, and I urge local businesses to register to attend.”

Businesses interested in the Quantity Surveyor and Programmer EOIs can access information from Monday, 12 September on the QTenders website: www.hpw.qld.gov.au/qtenders  

EOIs close on 26 September. After this a shortlist of suitably qualified surveyors and programmers will be invited to submit tenders.

Suppliers and subcontractors can register interest in working on the stadium project on the ICN gateway: www.icn.org.au

For more information on the upcoming Strengthening North Queensland workshops visit: www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/NorthQueensland

Media contact: 3719 7170