New era for station
One lucky operator will have the chance to lease a piece of Far North history with the Normanton Railway Station (right) kiosk open to tender for the first time. Queensland Rail is inviting experienced retailers to submit applications. QR travel and tourism boss Martin Ryan said the heritage-listed location was an exciting opportunity for a motivated, customer-focused operator to tap into the tourism industry.
ONE lucky operator will have the chance to lease a piece of Far Northern history with the Normanton Railway Station kiosk open to tender for the first time.
Queensland Rail is inviting experienced retailers to submit applications.
QR travel and tourism boss Martin Ryan said the heritagelisted location was an exciting opportunity for a motivated, customer-focused operator to tap into the tourism industry.
“Normanton Station is the gateway to the Gulflander, which was built to service the gold rush of the late 1800s and saw thousands settle in the Gulf Country region,” he said.
“Since then, the iconic station has helped to shape the local region and today, its significance is recognised in the Queensland Heritage Register.
Mr Ryan said, with peak season between April and October, the successful operator had the option to operate reduced hours around rail services in the off season and may negotiate an agreement to sell Gulflander tickets and receive commission as an additional revenue stream.
He encouraged interested operators to submit their tender by Monday, January 29, before 5pm.
“We’re looking for proposals from retail or hospitality operators who are keen to leave their mark on this important tourism destination,” he said.
“The premises will be offered in their authentic heritage condition. However, there is room for a partial or full refurbishment or refit, with a number of heritage guidelines for any proposed works.
“There are few limits to what is possible with the space and we look forward to receiving an array of proposals to propel the kiosk and Normanton Station into the future.”
To download tender documents, go to www.hpw.qld. gov.au/qtenders/ and select Queensland Rail and QRP17268 Normanton Kiosk.