Donations flow in for undersea museum
TOWNSVILLE businesses have donated more than $ 700,000 for an underwater museum with the final feasibility study undertaken by renowned artist Jason deCaires Taylor expected to be delivered within a fortnight.
The bulk of the donations have been contributed by SeaLink Travel Group, the Morris Group and the Gleeson Group, with each delivering $ 200,000.
Pacific Marine Group gave $ 50,000, the Townsville Airport $ 20,000 and the Flemming family, who have operated within the tourism industry for more than 20 years, pledged $ 15,000.
The Museum of Underwater Art would be the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
SeaLink director and regional general manager Paul Victory said he was pleased with the response.
“Everyone we have spoken with about Jason’s proposal is extremely positive about the potential, and with the right momentum it will be transformational for our city’s tourism offering,” he said.
“I have been extremely pleased with the local corporate investment, however more financial support is required.”
Discussions are continuing with the State Government for a matched funding contribution, with a total of $ 2 million needed.
The project is being led by SeaLink Queensland, Reef Ecologic, Townsville City Council, Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council, James Cook University and Townsville Enterprise.
Geoffrey Bay, on Magnetic Island; the northern aspect of Coolgaree Bay on Palm Island; the northern reaches of John Brewer Reef in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park; and The Strand were all nominated as key locations.
The Burdekin Shire Council has also suggested the Yongala dive site.
Underwater and intertidal installations are being considered with discussions continuing with traditional owners, councils and marine park managers.
Dr Paul Marshall, director of Reef Ecologic and former director of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, said the museum was an exciting opportunity.
“It brings together world- leading art, science and environmental capabilities to create a whole new suite of options for locals and tourists to connect with the Great Barrier Reef,” he said.
“We are looking forward to Jason’s full concept proposal, and then working with local businesses, government and the artist to turn this into a major Great Barrier Reef educational opportunity.”
A $ 40 million expansion of the local tourism economy has been forecast if the project gets the green light with more than 150 new jobs to be created.
Mr deCaires Taylor would base himself at the former Queen’s Hotel on The Strand during the construction phase with a gallery and workshop space for visitors proposed.
Palm Island Mayor Alf Lacey said the project could give the Palm community a unique opportunity to further its first people stories.
Townsville Enterprise chief executive officer Patricia O’Callaghan said the museum would be a significant coup for economic development.
Permit applications will be lodged with the GBRMPA as soon as funding has been secured.