New state push by MP

TOWNSVILLE could become the capital of a new state if a plan for northern Queensland statehood becomes a reality.

Under the North Queensland First leader Jason Costigan’s plan, Queenslanders would vote to draw a line in the sand between Gladstone and Bundaberg and create the Reef State within two years.

Mr Costigan ( pictured left) said it would be the decision of the people of the newly formed state but Townsville’s size and position would make it a key contender for capital.

Mr Costigan will today reveal the full details of his plan to separate North and south Queensland.

Mr Costigan has long campaigned for the North to break off from the south, echoing the sentiment of many North Queenslanders who feel the southeast corner benefits from the region’s hard work.

While he wouldn’t reveal his full plan to the Townsville Bulletin before today’s announcement, Mr Costigan said it was time to act.

“There have been statehood plans before but I want to bring North, Far North and Central Queensland all together,” he said.

“I’m putting forward a level of detail that clearly defines what I believe should be in the state of North Queensland, and that includes the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.”

Instead of the Sunshine State, North Queensland would be known as the Reef State.

Two of the state’s major powerhouses, the Bowen Basin mines and the North West Minerals Province would also be included.

Mr Costigan said the North was often brushed off as a “burden” but the NQ statehood plan was viable and profitable.

“We should break away from what is universally known as Queensland,” he said.

“It’s served us well for a long time but it’s not working anymore.” Mr Costigan said his opponents would often say it wasn’t a “viable” idea.

“If we’re such a drain on the southeast then let us go,” he said. “If we’re such a drain on the public purse to the great southeast, then let us go and let us be the master of our own destiny.”

Mr Costigan said with the state election 40 days away, he would use the balance of power to force the Government’s hand on a referendum.

“We propose that to be held … in two years’ time so people can have their say and we go from there,” he said.

The NQ First leader said down the track it was likely North Queensland would have less representation in parliament, so it was time to act.

“We want people to have their say, and if they don’t want it, that’s fine,” Mr Costigan said.

“I think there is a lot of people out there not happy with what is going on with politics, public policy and the economy.”