State awards new funding for major Townsville tourism project

Published Wednesday, 04 September, 2019 at 11:05 AM

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

A major transformation of Townsville’s ferry and bus transport system is one step closer after the State Government today announced $3.5 million in funding towards the Townsville Marine Tourism Precinct development.

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said the funding was awarded under the government’s major $48 million Attracting Tourism Fund.

“This government is investing in tourism to create jobs in North Queensland – and that’s exactly what this project will achieve,” she said

“The Marine Tourism Precinct will be a game changer for Townsville. The development on the Strand will replace the current Breakwater Transport Terminal and will include new ferry berths, facilities for buses, a commercial precinct and a brand new 90-room hotel.

“It will connect the Townsville CBD and major tourism offerings like Reef HQ Aquarium, the Museum of Tropical North Queensland and the proposed new Museum of Underwater Art to the water.

“This is about attracting tourists who spend more and stay longer when they come to visit North Queensland.”

The project could also create opportunities in the development of Palm Island through the creation of reef tours and indigenous experiences.

Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said this game changing project could attract an extra 200,000 visitors, generate $28.7 million for local businesses and boost gross regional product by $13.1 million.

Mr Stewart said around 67 full-time jobs would be created during construction and more than 63 jobs created once the project was up and running.

“Tourism is an important pillar of the North Queensland economy,” he said.

“This development will  significantly contribute to jobs growth in the region. Pending the necessary development approvals the developer believes this project could be operational by 2021.”

The Queensland Government’s support is conditional upon a $15 million contribution from the Australian Government.

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Media contact: Jack Harbour 0419 620 447