Have your say on tourism hub

FAR Northern residents are being asked to give their feedback to a proposed $1 billion “Global Tourism Hub” for the waterfront of Cairns.

It appears if there is widespread opposition to the proposal it will not go ahead.

But those against the idea, which will transform the Wharf St area and create another attraction for tourists, will stop a development which will generate jobs and provide a huge economic boost.

The government has hinted there are already investors keen to be involved in the venture which could include more high-end hotels and retail as well as a casino.

It also has been suggested that the $120 million expansion of the city’s convention centre could be integrated into the proposal.

The current owners of the Reef Hotel Casino have already indicated they want to lodge an expression of interest to expand their venue as part of the hub.

The hub is a first in Queensland and makes up in part for the failure of the $8 billion Aquis project at Yorkeys Knob.

Residents filling out a questionnaire on-line or at a pop-up shop at Cairns Central shopping centre from today are being asked what benefits they would like from the hub, including short and long term jobs, improved tourism offerings and more open spaces.

As well they are being asked what they would like included, such as five and six star hotels, an “iconic worldclass design”, gaming (casino) operations, restaurants and bars, open public space, retailing, indigenous opportunities and a leisure and entertainment precinct.

The ball is in your court. Don’t let this opportunity slide away. Nick Dalton Deputy editor