Electric vehicle infrastructure charging ahead in FNQ

Electric vehicle users in Tropical North Queensland are getting ready to charge with installation works on track for six AC charging stations at key tourism locations.

The Tropical North Queensland Electric Vehicle Drive has been developed and implemented by the Palaszczuk Government and is being delivered with sponsorship from RACQ.

Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway charging site would be the first to be completed.

“It’s exciting to see the charging stations already capturing interest and support from the community and travellers to our region,” Mr Crawford said.

“The roll-out of infrastructure is on track to be completed in early November.”

Member for Cairns Michael Healy commended the businesses powering up the project.

“Cairns’ own Intrust Energy Solutions, and EVSE Australia, are doing a terrific job preparing the six sites and installing the charging stations across the Tropical North,” Mr Healy said.

“The stations will then provide free vehicle recharges for 12 months, so the initiative will gain immediate traction.”

All six sites across the Tropical North Queensland Electric Vehicle Drive Network have had underground cabling installed and concrete slabs poured.

Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Cameron Dick said the Palaszczuk Government was proud to partner with RACQ to deliver the Australian-first pilot.

“This is about supporting growth in sustainable tourism and creating more local jobs for Far North Queensland,” Mr Dick said.

RACQ Head of Public Policy Dr Rebecca Michael said the project would help attract more national and international tourists to Tropical North Queensland.

“These chargers will tackle some of the issues drivers face as they transition to electric vehicles and allow tourists to put their holiday time to good use by parking and charging up as they visit the attractions that put the Far North on the map,” Dr Michael said.

The Tropical North Queensland Electric Vehicle Drive will create a world-class sustainable multi-day tourism experience, offering free electric vehicle charging over the 12-month trial period at six locations across Tropical North Queensland.

The six charging sites are:

• Paronella Park
• Herberton Historic Village
• Coffee Works Mareeba
• Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
• Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures
• Mossman Gorge Visitor Centre

ENDS

Media contact: Ben Doyle 0400 775 561