Expansion held back
Venue holdup throws plans into disarray
THE $176 million Cairns Convention Centre extension has been delayed for the third time because of COVID-19.
The Cairns Taipans’ season has been thrown into chaos. The reopening has been pushed back from October to February.
Cairns MP Michael Healy said parts from overseas would not be available in time for the reopening.
THE $176 million Cairns Convention Centre expansion has been delayed for the third time because of the COVID-19 crisis.
Several events planned for its opening later in the year have been cancelled and the Cairns Taipans’ next NBL season has been thrown into disarray as a result of the delay.
The reopening has been pushed back from October to next February. Member for Cairns Michael Healy said some of the parts manufactured overseas wouldn’t arrive in time due to factories shutting down.
“The manufacturing companies supplying the chillers and seats for the centre have shut down for three months,” he said.
“These factories are primarily based in Europe, and have notified us that they will be looking at new supply channels.
“It’s very disappointing news, the whole COVID-19 situation is disappointing news, what matters now is how soon we can get it up and running.”
Mr Healy said the Taipans had been notified of the delay.
When asked for comment, Taipans staff said the basketball franchise would address the development today.
A starting date for the 2020-21 NBL season is yet to be confirmed, although the league has announced it would start after the NRL and AFL seasons have ended.
That means a potential December tip-off, raising fears the Taipans could be forced to play their home games in Townsville until the project is completed. Taipans board member Mike Scott said the convention centre was the only stadium available in Cairns that could host the Taipans.
The NBL was also contacted for comment but did not respond before the time of print.
The delay also brings into question PBR Australia’s Cairns Invitational Rodeo, which was set to be held on November 28.
The project has been embroiled in controversy with several contracts being awarded to southern contractors.
But the minister overseeing the expansion, Housing and Public Works Minister Mick de Brenni, has recommitted to securing Cairns tradies work after being lashed for backing away from local guarantees.