VIVA KATE JONES
MINISTER THROWS DICE FOR TOURISM HUB
LAS Vegas casino giants are scrambling to put a stake in the Far North as competition heats up to secure a second gaming licence in Cairns.
Tourism and Industry Development Minister Kate Jones met the likes of MGM Grand and Caesars Entertainment during a trip to Las Vegas to discuss expressions of interest for a Global Tourism Hub in the area.
It’s understood a significant number of global entertainment giants have expressed interest in the available licence as part of the hub proposed near the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal.
If approved it would deliver the first integrated gaming, entertainment and accommodation resort in the Far North.
Ms Jones confirmed the meetings in Las Vegas last week where she also attended the Jeff Horn bout against American superstar Terrance Crawford.
“In February, the Premier signed an agreement to make Queensland and Nevada sister states,” she said.
“Upon completion of our biotech delegation to Boston I attended meetings on behalf of the Queensland Government in Nevada.
“I also met with Caesars En- tertainment, MGM Resorts International and Hard Rock to discuss current expressions of interest for a Global Tourism Hub in Cairns.”
While both Cairns and the Gold Coast have casino licences currently available, development in Far North Queensland would happen much sooner due to the Gold Coast proposal yet to go to market.
It’s understood possible proponents may attempt to secure both licences in an attempt to form a presence in both the Far North and South East Queensland.
The State Government has shifted its focus to the construction of Global Tourism Hubs, which offer punters extensive dining, entertainment and wagering options, similar to those operating in Las Vegas and Macau where billions of dollars are turned over each year.
It comes after Hong Kongbased billionaire Tony Fung ended his six-year quest to build an $8 billion integrated resort, including a casino, at Yorkeys Knob in 2016.
He pulled out, saying the wagering space had changed since the plan was first floated.
Plans from interested parties are expected to be made available to the State Government in September.