Convoy eyes $1.2b boost
TWELVE teams of lobbyists will convoy to Brisbane next month to chase $1.2 billion in State Government funding for the Far North.
The TNQ Convoy to Capital Q will build on last year’s successful campaign for federal funds.
Advance Cairns Chairman Trent Twomey yesterday broke down the seven priority targets for lobbyists who would fight to sway up to 40 parliamentarians to commit to spending on Far Northern infrastructure.
The convoy has been timed to take advantage of the looming state election.
“We need to get commitments, not just from the government and opposition, but also the crossbench,” Mr Twomey said.
The delegates would argue for – among other projects – $150 million for a Cairns University
Hospital, $420 million on water security projects including the proposed Nullinga Dam, $365 million to upgrade the Western Arterial Road and $10 million for destination marketing.
“As well as the $1.2 billion we are seeking in infrastructure investment we will also be pushing for policy reform to get unnecessary red and green tape out of the way of business,” Mr Twomey said.
When push comes to shove, Advance Cairns CEO Nick
Trompf said the four highest priorities would be the university hospital, the Nullinga Dam and water security, the western arterial and the upgrade of the marine precinct.
But Cairns University Hospital was the jewel in the pitch.
“It would have such an impact – health and light industry are our biggest employers,” Mr Trompf said.
“The university hospital would take the overflow from the Torres Strait, the Cape and PNG.”
The $150 million sought would continue the development of Cairns Hospital and fund 80 new beds.
Mr Trompf expects the convoy would take time to bear fruit.
“The government knows they have an election in 2020 and will keep their powder dry,” he said.
“We will probably see a budget with sweeteners … they won’t play all their cards.”