Call to get in queue for hub

Register for tourist centre spot

FAR Northern businesses are being invited to register for a slice of the proposed billion dollar Global Tourism Hub in Cairns before a successful bidder has even been announced.

The State Government is targeting Queensland businesses, particularly in Cairns and the region, from indigenous experience operators to legal services.

Cairns MP Michael Healy said the register was being released this week with a cut-off date of December 6.

“It’s early days but we want to make sure that we put local workers and businesses first when it comes to delivering a Global Tourism Hub in Cairns,” he said.

“Businesses interested in having their details profiled to would-be Tropical North GTH developers are urged to consider this early invitation.”

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said if the project went ahead the hub would need a wide range of goods and services requiring workers with a broad spectrum of expertise, from design and construction to indigenous support.

“Now is the time for potential contractors to put up their hand for the opportunity to help deliver a Global Tourism Hub in Cairns,” she said. “We want to make the most of the proposed Cairns Global Tourism Hub for taxpayers.”

Interested parties are asked to complete an online form and their information will be forwarded to hub proponents for consideration. Go to: ditid.qld.gov.au/tourism/special-projects/global-tourismhubs/tropical-north/localand-indigenous-businessregister

The government is assessing expressions of interest from about 11 short-listed local, national and international proponents.

It is expected the proposals will be evaluated in the first half of 2019 and the preferred proponent announced and transaction documents signed in the second half of the year. Construction could begin in the second half of 2020.