National and global firms on shortlist for Cairns Global Tourism Hub

Published Monday, 28 May, 2018 at 09:15 AM

Minister for Innovation and Tourism Industry Development and Minister for the Commonwealth Games
The Honourable Kate Jones

Investor confidence is growing in the government’s proposal for a Tropical North Global Tourism Hub with multiple national and international firms at the centre of the next phase of consultation, Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said today.

“When the project’s Registration of Interest process closed in January 2018, we received strong interest from local and international firms seeking to create a world-class and visionary GTH in the Tropical North.

“That positive response reflected our market soundings and today we start the second phase by issuing shortlisted proponents Expression of Interest (EOI) documentation.

“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to delivering infrastructure for Tropical North Queensland that will grow the region’s tourism industry which injects 23,300 jobs into the economy and support 23,300 jobs. This project is an important part of that strategy.”

Ms Jones said for probity reasons the names of the proponents could not be released.

“They now have until August 2018 to prepare their EOI proposals to demonstrate their vision, capability, capacity and experience to deliver the GTH.

“The proponents have been provided results of the recent community consultation where more than 600 respondents identified job-creation and a focus on the environment and investment in new tourism opportunities as the priorities.

“We are working with the people of Tropical North Queensland every step of the way to make sure we create jobs for locals and deliver infrastructure that will make a difference.”

Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt said the government had engaged with Cairns Regional Council and Ports North to develop the project requirements and will continue to engage with the community to ensure the GTH successfully integrates with the Cairns CBD.

“The State’s preferred site is within the Cityport precinct, near the expanding Convention Centre,” he said.

“Proponents will need to demonstrate how their designs integrate with the port’s management of cargo and cruise ships.

“I have backed a proposal for a Global Tourism Hub every step of the way and it’s great to know we have some of the world’s leading firms interested in developing infrastructure here in Tropical North Queensland.

“What we want to see is long-term and secure jobs in a stable industry.

“We live in one of the most sought-after tourism destinations on the planet but to ensure this industry continues to grow, we need to invest in infrastructure.

“The government’s commitment to delivering a Global Tourism Hub in Tropical North Queensland is having a profound impact on the private sector – investors are recognising the exciting opportunities we have in Cairns and I have no doubt this will pay off in years to come.”

Member for Cairns Michael Healy said today’s announcement was a win for the local tourism industry  and a wide-range of small business in Cairns.

“To have some of the best in the world working on plans for a Global Tourism Hub in Cairns is a testament to the success of this project,” he said.

“Having received feedback from the community and refined their plans, I look forward to seeing what these firms have in store for Cairns.

“Small businesses in Cairns will benefit from this major development which will drive visitors to the region.”

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said following the success of the 2018 Commonwealth Games showcasing Queensland to the world it was important to maintain momentum.

“Tourism in Queensland is a $25 billion industry and projects like the Tropical North GTH will ensure this industry continues to grow, creating jobs for Queenslanders and supporting our economy.”

Global Tourism Hubs are a new strategy to deliver world-class tourism infrastructure. GTHs deliver catalytic projects that support city-building objectives and other complementary projects while optimising regional jobs growth and investment.

Reef Casino, as the incumbent operator automatically moves into the EOI phase.

The Tropical North GTH may include:

  • entertainment, recreational and cultural facilities
  • five- or six-star hotels
  • unique, internationally recognisable architecture with expansive high amenity public realm
  • integrated resorts, including casinos and gaming facilities
  • apartments
  • arcades, pools, salons, gyms and other recreational facilities
  • meeting and conference spaces
  • tourist attractions such as maritime museums and aquariums
  • theatre and convention facilities
  • cinemas
  • boutique retail
  • celebrity chef restaurants and bars.

More information on Global Tourism Hubs is available at https://www.ditid.qld.gov.au/tourism/special-projects/global-tourism-hubs

Media contact:
Jack Harbour 0419 620 447