Townsville in push to become an export hub

TOWNSVILLE will take the next step in pushing for the establishment of a $ 10 million produce export distribution centre.

More than 30 regional communities and businesses registered their interest to bring the centre to their region.

State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Minister Cameron Dick said the export centre would seek to “supercharge rapid access” of agricultural produce to key international markets and grow jobs in surrounding regional areas.

Formal expressions of interest will now be called by the State Government.

Townsville, Bundaberg, Toowoomba, Rockhampton, Cairns, Mackay and the Whitsundays have all shown interest in the project.

Townsville Airport is being backed by Townsville Enterprise to bring the distribution centre to the city.

Mr Dick said feedback from potential proponents during the initial phase was used to refine eligibility criteria for the EOI process.

“It’s vital to ensure all interested parties can pursue the opportunity via this EOI, to maximise benefits for regional Queensland,” he said.

“Accordingly, this opportunity is open to all regional Queensland locations that have a connection with, or planned pathway to connect with, a regionally based airport with international export capacity.

“Our number one priority is to attract proponents capable of developing and operating a commercially viable export centre at a regional Queensland location.”

Proponents have until 5pm September 24 to lodge an EOI.