Ray reaches for the Sky
MP seeks Labor Government cable car project backing
MERMAID Beach MP Ray Stevens will today urge the State Government to support the $100 million cable car proposal he is linked to, in a bid to stimulate the Gold Coast’s economy.
The controversial project has been on hold since the Palaszczuk Government came to power earlier this year, despite having the backing of business and tourist leaders.
The Skyride project follows previous attempts to create a cable car attraction – and sparked controversy when it was revealed Mr Stevens was part of the consortium behind it while a member of the former Newman Government.
However, the now opposition MP will today discuss the project briefly in a parliamentary speech expected to cover a wide range of issues.
The Bulletin understands Mr Stevens will describe the Skyride as a “personal project”.
“I am sure my fellow parliamentarians know I have been trying for a long time to give more people the opportunity to experience our Hinterland with a cable car through to the historic Springbrook National Park,” he will say.
“This has been a personal project of mine for more than 17 years and it is with sincere hope that this incumbent Labor Government will understand the importance of the development of this wonderful tourist attraction.
“It should not continue its previous short-sightedness in not taking the opportunity this infrastructure would provide without damaging such a natural resource.
“In terms of jobs for the Gold Coasters and indigenous people, the tourism industry is requiring new attractions.”
While Mr Stevens is pushing for the government to sup- port the project, its proponents are yet to meet with officials to discuss the matter.
“The matter has been on hold for the past few months because the investors wanted the government to be able to settle in,” he said.
“We will have another meeting in a few months.”
If approved, the 9km Gold Coast Skyride would run from a privately owned site on Springbrook Rd to The Settlement. The route, offering scenic views, would be similar to the Naturelink cableway proposal that failed to eventuate in 1998.