Opportunity Townsville North Queensland - Edition 03

EDITION 03 | FEBRUARY 2018

Major economic development initiatives & investment opportunities

Proudly sponsored by

SALES LEASING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

We know local business, local property, and we’re invested in growing Townsville’s commercial property landscape for today and tomorrow.

COMMERCIAL - INDUSTRIAL - RETAIL - OFFICE - RURAL Colliers International Townsville 21-25 Sturt Street, Townsville 07 4722 2444 www.colliers.com.au

Contents 002 Welcome 004 Townsville Enterprise 006 Townsville Enterprise Members 007 Partners

009 Industry Features 010 Energy 012 Defence 013 Water 014 Education 016 Health and Medical 018 Innovation 020 Singapore 022 Papua New Guinea

027 Recently Completed 028 Townsville 032 Townsville North Queensland 034 Surrounding Region

037 Under Construction 038 Townsville 043 Townsville North Queensland 045 Surrounding Region

049 Investment Ready 050 Townsville 051 Townsville North Queensland 052 Surrounding Region

054 Seeking Funding

062 Project Pipeline 064 Townsville 068 Townsville North Queensland 071 Surrounding Region

075 Economic Snapshot 076 Townsville North Queensland Economy 077 Gross Regional Product 082 Population 084 Education and Innovation 085 Property 086 Building Activity 087 Business Confidence 088 State of the States 089 Employment 090 Trade 091 Tourism

095 Northern Living 096 Climate 096 Sporting 097 Arts, Culture and Events 098 Dining, Entertainment and Shopping 099 Transport and Infrastructure 100 The Great Outdoors 104 Housing 105 Employment 106 Education, Training and Trades 108 Schools and Childcare 109 Health and Welfare 110 Regions at a Glance

056 Townsville 057 Townsville North Queensland 057 Surrounding Region 058 A clear vision for our city

Front cover feature image by Megan MacKinnon

This document is compiled by Townsville Enterprise, Townsville North Queensland’s registered Economic Development Organisation, Regional Tourism Organisation and Convention Bureau. Every care is taken to ensure that content is current and factual at the time of release. Townsville Enterprise Limited takes no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. Published February 2018.

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Welcome

Image by Megan MacKinnon

Welcome to the third edition of Opportunity Townsville North Queensland. 2017 was a significant year, establishing new foundations across a variety of emerging industries that will shape the future of Townsville North Queensland’s diverse economy. Influenced by the momentum of a multitude of new projects, PVW Partners’ Townsville Business Confidence figures for 2017 reveal a steady increase in business confidence across the region.

Home to Australia’s largest military presence, North Queensland must consider its future role in building capacity supportive of Defence operations across northern Australia.

The Australia-Singapore Military Training Initiative (ASMTI) and Defence identified as a key development priority under Townsville’s City Deal, establish this industry as critical to the region’s economy.

The Port of Townsville Channel Capacity Upgrade Project will facilitate domestic and international trade growth while maintaining competitiveness in its white and grey ship attraction strategy. The channel widening is a welcomed initiative that will generate flow-on investment in agriculture, heavy industry and logistics.

Townsville North Queensland encompasses five major regional centres: Townsville, Charters Towers, Burdekin, Palm Island and Hinchinbrook. The region contributes over $14.1B annually to the Queensland economy and is home to nearly 240,000 people. Townsville itself is Australia’s 13th largest city and is acknowledged by State and Federal Governments as the ‘Capital of Northern Australia’.

Townsville’s aviation attraction activities have secured new direct flight connections from Melbourne and international flights to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea (PNG). These flights represent significant economic outcomes for the region in the form of tourism, trade and investment. Additionally, the ASMTI will offer opportunity for flights between Townsville and Singapore to be established.

Key state and national policy documents highlight the critical importance of Townsville and North Queensland as a driver of national economic growth and job creation. The signing of Australia’s first ever City Deal for Townsville is testament to the commitment of all three levels of Government to drive economic growth and encourage business and industry development.

Opportunity Townsville North Queensland is your guide to the established and developing major industries in the region, provided through a comprehensive and informative outline of projects recently delivered, under construction or in various stages of development.

The North Queensland Stadium is a key project defined under the City Deal. Local contractor, Watpac, will deliver the project with more than 2,000 people employed, of which 80% are guaranteed to be local.

Adani’s Carmichael Mine, Rail and Port Project is anticipated to generate up to 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, with the project requiring several goods and services that Townsville North Queensland businesses can deliver. Townsville is already the base of Adani’s Regional Headquarters and was also announced as a joint FIFO Hub for the project.

Townsville Enterprise acknowledges the efforts of its members and partners in supporting the organisation’s endeavours to attract major investment, create jobs, improve liveability and increase visitation, which ultimately delivers economic prosperity and opportunity to the region. A special thanks to the sponsors featured in this edition, particularly Major Sponsor Colliers International Townsville for their endorsement.

Many significant renewable energy projects have commenced across the region that are set to define North Queensland as the renewables centre of Australia. Employment opportunities are an additional benefit to this clean energy movement. One of the feature projects in this industry on a local level is the establishment of Queensland’s largest solar farm. Sun Metals Corporation’s 124MW solar project will cover up to 120 hectares of land, scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2018.

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Michael McMillan Director – Policy & Investment Townsville Enterprise Limited

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Australian Infrastructure Plan, Infrastructure Australia, February 2016

Image by Megan MacKinnon

The Townsville economy is rebounding with a number of major projects playing a key role in the turnaround.

As a part of Townsville City Council’s aim to attract more significant developments, the Townsville2020 masterplan and vision was launched in December 2017.

Townsville’s economy has strong foundations with excellent prospects for future growth. Our city has a diverse economic base, a growing population, world-class research facilities and a desirable tropical lifestyle.

There are many reasons to invest in the city and now has never been a better time to do so.

Townsville2020 will help create a number of world-class experiences in the city and attract investment from the private sector through the clear vision outlined in the masterplan.

I am pleased to have Opportunity Townsville North Queensland working with us to highlight the potential for growth in Townsville.

Colliers International Townsville is proud to support this third edition of Opportunity Townsville North Queensland. Congratulations to Townsville Enterprise for continuing to produce this important work for our region. As always, we’re excited to see a publication that recognises and promotes the business and investment opportunities in North Queensland, as we do every day.

In 2017, Colliers International Townsville celebrated 20 years of working in North Queensland’s commercial property market.

From opening the first dedicated commercial property agency in 1997, we’ve seen the opportunities and rewards of our region and worked with our clients through difficult economic times during this period.

We feel extremely privileged to have played a role in shaping the commercial real estate and development landscape in this wonderful city over the last two decades. There have been incredible changes over this time and we’re optimistic and excited about the prospects for the future.

As this report identifies, there is a promising pipeline of developments that are set to transform our region. With the new CBD stadium taking shape, numerous solar farms under construction and the Haughton Pipeline Duplication on the

Cr Jenny Hill Mayor of Townsville

horizon, in addition to major private investments and visionary proposals coming forward, we’re excited about the future. Townsville has seen a challenging landscape for business over the last few years, but we believe that there is a strong outlook for our city. The local property market is once again showing significant promise and building momentum.

At Colliers, we have already begun to see the benefits from this, with enquiries for commercial and industrial space from businesses associated with some of these major projects. We anticipate the opportunities from this economic injection will continue to grow over the coming year.

We look forward to working with you and your team to help meet your commercial property needs and accelerate your success in 2018 as these opportunities unfold.

Peter Wheeler Managing Director Colliers International Townsville

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Townsville Enterprise Purpose: Connect, grow and promote Townsville North Queensland.

For over 25 years Townsville Enterprise has been a key driver in attracting major investment to the region.

It ensures that Townsville, Magnetic Island, Palm Island, the Burdekin, Hinchinbrook and Charters Towers benefit from investment and economic prosperity, tourism opportunities and the business events market.

Townsville Enterprise ADVOCACY

Promoting North Queensland to achieve sustainable economic and lifestyle benefits for the region and Australia

PRIORITIES

POLICY

Developing key policy positions that affect the growth and development of the region

INVESTMENT ATTRACTION

INFRASTRUCTURE Attracting public and private sector funding for economic infrastructure

JOBS

Working with key stakeholders to attract investment for major regional projects of signficance

FOR THE TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND COMMUNITY

MEMBERSHIP

EVENTS

Supporting, promoting and advocating for our members

Events development and acquisition

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

AVIATION Working with the Townsville Airport on the attraction of domestic and international flights

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INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT

Developing the tourism and events industry with a specific focus on edutourism and cruise

Marketing and promoting the region to attract new residents, new investment and visitors

Building the region is everyone’s business.

As a member of Townsville Enterprise, your business will be supported by the strategic activities that attract investment, create jobs and improve liveability in Townsville North Queensland.

Townsville Enterprise may be leading the charge, but it cannot operate alone.

It is only with the support of its partners and members that it can continue to drive growth for the Townsville North Queensland region.

Join with us.

Visit our website or call us on +61 7 4726 4728 to find out more about how a membership with Townsville Enterprise will help connect, grow and promote your business.

townsvilleenterprise.com.au

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Townsville Enterprise Members PRINCIPAL PARTNER

MAJOR PARTNER

PLATINUM TIER 1 MEMBER

PLATINUM MEMBERS

GOLD MEMBERS

SILVER MEMBERS

Burdekin Shire Council

COPPER MEMBERS

BRONZE MEMBERS AE SMITH

Honeycombes Property Group

Australian Future Energy Pty Ltd (AFE)

Hutchinson Builders

Queensland Country

Australian Institute of Marine Science

Incitec Pivot Limited

RPS Australia East Pty Ltd

Bendigo Bank Townsville

Lendlease Communities Townsville Pty Ltd

SeaLink Queensland Pty Ltd SMEC Australia Pty Ltd

Parkside Developments Pty Ltd

CQUniversity

Mike Carney Toyota

Cubic Defence Australia Pty Ltd

Northern Management Group Pty Ltd

Stadiums Queensland

Davco Farming

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

Stockland Development Pty Limited

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ASSOCIATE, LEVEL 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 & RECIPROCAL MEMBERS LIFE MEMBERS John Bearne

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Greg Peel

Alison Ferry

Graham Jackson OAM

Edward Scott AM

Geoffrey Plante

Laurence Lancini

Partners

Townsville Enterprise works collaboratively with a number of agencies involved to varying degrees in economic development to deliver outcomes for businesses, investors and projects in the region:

Burdekin Shire Council

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The Strand, Townsville by Megan MacKinnon

Industry Features MAJOR SPONSOR

SECTION SPONSORS

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Energy Significant increases in national electricity prices over the past decade have been driven by an inadequate regulatory environment and over investment in transmission assets.

A lack of competition in both generation and electricity retail markets, the recent closures of coal-fired power stations and the growing cost of environmental schemes have also contributed to ‘significant’ national price rises since 2007.

In order to apply downward pressure to electricity pricing in North Queensland significant investment must be made to establish new ‘baseload’ power generating assets, supported by legitimate commitment from both Federal and State levels of government to the establishment of regulatory settings that address end-user concerns and affordability and police opportunistic pricing practices.

North Queensland’s future energy mix will consist of both traditional coal-fired energy and renewable generation. The critical question for the region’s industry, small businesses and households remains; how does the economy realise equilibrium between affordability and sustainability.

The national electricity market is significantly evolving and opportunity for large-scale renewable energy generation and investment is being driven by favourable policy settings, particularly in Queensland. Townsville boasts 300+ days of sun each year and is therefore the perfect location supportive of large-scale solar energy development and contributions to the regional energy mix. Already under construction is the: C lare Solar Farm (35km south-west of Ayr) R oss River Solar Farm

K idston Solar Farm (located on the site of the historical

Kidston Gold Mine 270km north-west of Townsville) C ollinsville Solar Farm H ells Gates Dam pumped hydro capacity

Submitted for investment is the Koberinga Solar Farm (23km south-east of Home Hill).

North Queensland is quickly defining itself as Australia’s ‘Solar Centre’. Completion of these solar farms could contribute almost 800 MWH to the grid in North Queensland, capable of powering 350,000 homes.

Additionally, potential for large-scale hydro power generation exists within the Kidston Renewable Development.

Fortuitously, this site has much of the necessary earthworks already in place due to the retired mine’s dual pit configuration and landfall. A feasibility study has concluded that the project is technically feasible and has the potential to become Australia’s largest renewables-based energy storage project. In order to realise the full potential of Townsville’s energy capabilities, large-scale energy storage is the next priority for the region. To balance the saturation of renewable energy generation to the National Energy Market (NEM), a long-term cost-effective storage solution is required in North Queensland.

“Ergon believes demand tariffs together with the combination of the new batteries, solar and HEMS (Home Energy Management Systems) will give customers better price signals to take action and control their demand, avoid high cost impacts and therefore high bills”. – Mark Bailey1

S un Metals Solar Farm

Sun Metals Solar FarmImage undercourtesy construction 2017 of Aurizon

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http://reneweconomy.com.au/townsville-innovative-battery-trial-extended-50779/

Construction of a large-scale battery manufacturing plant which will offer sustainable energy storage facilities is being considered for Townsville. The $2B lithium-ion battery factory has support from the Townsville City Council who has granted part of a former CSIRO research station to the Boston Energy & Innovation consortium in exchange for equity in the project. Along with the innovative energy storage capabilities expected to reduce household electricity prices, the project is expected to deliver 1,000 direct jobs to the community.

Powerlink Queensland, owner and operator of the transmission network in Queensland needs to concentrate more resources into creating a timely, fit for purpose and costeffective network. For our region’s businesses and industry to be competitive there is a vital need for sustainable/cost effective energy pricing requiring the generation of significant base load power in North Queensland. GHD’s 2013 North and Northwest Queensland Sustainable Resource Feasibility Study affirms that the establishment of additional large-scale base load generation in the north would apply significant downward pressure to electricity pricing across the region – simply because of the way prices are defined by the existing flow of energy north within the system.

The fact is that large energy users in Northern Australia – industry, manufacturers and big business – have their energy costs made of ‘energy prices’, ‘losses’ (through transmission) and ‘energy charges’. These are all government regulated charges that in many cases are determined by the flows

(and losses) of energy from south to north. The generation of at least 2,000MW of energy, and delivering it to the NEM in North Queensland, would result in a reversal of this power flow from north to south, thereby reversing the cycle and the impact of transmission losses and reducing regulated energy charges.

Townsville Enterprise acknowledges the State’s $386M pipeline of identified renewable projects as a significant step toward the Palaszczuk Government’s 50% renewable energy target for 2030 and the 2050 100% carbon emissions reduction commitment. The realisation of these targets will require significant development of large-scale hydroelectricity generation and renewable transmission assets across the north, which will heavily rely upon public funding driving further private investment into establishing innovative energy generation solutions.

Ultimately, the realisation of short-to-medium term sustainable energy pricing and relief for the north will require direct intervention and cooperation from the Federal and State Governments to identify and establish responsible regulatory arrangements that govern generator activities while identifying future sources of large-scale ‘base load’ energy generation (and proponents) particularly in North Queensland. This will be in addition to technological progress towards the realisation of viable/dependable renewable energy storage solutions contributing to our region’s longterm energy security and mix.

Sun Metals Solar FarmImage undercourtesy construction 2017 of Aurizon

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Defence The geographic, operational, and economic arguments associated with Townsville North Queensland taking a greater strategic role in support of Australian Defence Force (ADF) Northern Command activities continues to gain momentum and validity.

Over the next decade, the Defence sector will present significant growth and investment opportunities for the Townsville North Queensland region. The Federal Government will invest $150.6B1 in the Defence sector over the next four years, increasing its Defence budget to 2% of GDP by 2020–21. This unprecedented spending increase is expected to have a direct impact upon Townsville – Australia’s largest Defence city.

Additionally, the Singapore Government has committed $2.25B in investment to expand the current Shoalwater Bay and Townsville Field Training Areas as a part of the Defence partnership outlined in the amended AustraliaSingapore Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP). The Singapore Government has established a list of prerequisite resources and support required to service the needs of its training activities. These range from supply of food and leisure activities, to warehousing weapons and vehicles and operation of their base camps.

A key priority for the increased Australian and Singaporean Defence presence across the region is to ensure there is a net benefit to the local community, both economically and socially. The advantage of this military investment can best be realised if the resources that support Defence are sourced from within North Queensland. Current estimates suggest

that over two-thirds of goods and services used by Defence are imported from outside the region. The 2016 Defence White Paper’s renewed focus on utilising local industry demonstrates the Government’s commitment to supporting Townsville North Queensland and the broader community and an improved local engagement and resourcing approach.

It is expected that Townsville North Queensland businesses will experience significant economic benefits from the increased Singapore Armed Forces presence. Townsville Enterprise looks forward to working with local councils, business owners, the ADF and stakeholders in order to maximise the economic outcome on behalf of the region.

It is essential that the Townsville North Queensland economy quickly develops local capacity in defence support industry sectors in order to maximise the increasing opportunities with Defence in the region.

The establishment of Townsville North Queensland as a Deep Maintenance, Sustainment and Logistics Hub, and the adjustment of ADF procurement policies, conscious of the development of greater breadth and depth across the region’s critical defence support industries, is necessary to meet North Queensland’s long-term defence training and operational commitments.

Townsville is improving its defence-industry relationship and to this end, a new ‘North Queensland Defence Advisory Board’ will be appointed locally to strengthen formal consultation between business and Defence.

© Commonwealth Image courtesy of Australia of Aurizon 2015

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Budget 2017: Defence on track for 2pc objective, The Australian reporter Joe Kelly

Water As Townsville looks to the future, a significant priority remains as to how the city will secure its long-term urban water supply and drought proof the local economy.

Townsville’s current water source includes the Paluma Dam in the North and Ross River Dam to the South, offering approximately two years guaranteed water supply. After three failed wet seasons, water levels within Ross River Dam are less than 20 percent. Below this level, Townsville experiences level three water restrictions and a supplementary water source is accessed via the Burdekin Haughton Water Supply Scheme.

This method of transporting water is both inefficient and costly. Therefore, the opportunity to improve Townsville’s water security is a top priority.

An intergovernmental Water Taskforce has been set up by the Australian and Queensland Governments, in partnership with the Townsville City Council, as a part of the Townsville City Deal. The ‘Townsville Water Security Taskforce’ is exploring funding for this priority and a feasibility study is being undertaken to determine the best long-term solution to Townsville’s urban water supply. An interim report provided by the Taskforce to the Prime Minister and the Premier of Queensland has considered short, medium and long-term supply options.

A new dam at Hells Gates W ould have an asset life of over 100 years National Water Infrastructure Fund (NWIF) sponsored

feasibility study is expected to be completed by March 2018 T he study is assessing the viability of the following

components: L arge-scale irrigated agriculture; Associated water storage/ infrastructure (dam/weir system) in the Upper Burdekin catchment; and Urban water supply for Townsville.

The Water Taskforce’s final report will be submitted by 30 September 2018.

Establishing an affordable and sustainable regional/urban water solution will be a fundamental driver of economic growth across North Queensland. Agriculture, industry development and tourism opportunities rely on water security.

Short-term recommendations to commence immediately include: Duplication of the Haughton Water Pipeline between Burdekin and Ross River Dams C onstruction was fast-tracked and commenced 4th Quarter

2017 R equired investment is approximately $218M I ncreasing the capacity of the existing pipeline to 234ML/

day (currently pumps 130ML/day).

Medium term recommendations have been suggested to commence within 15 years and include installation of solar powered pump stations, inclusive of battery storage, to ensure solar powered pumping of water between storage sites is available 24/7.

Long-term options are subject to changes in water demand, water savings, population growth and additional water-using industries entering the region. Long-term solutions include: Raising of the Burdekin Falls Dam wall R aise the current dam wall by 2 metres D eliver 150,000ML capacity

Burdekin Falls Dam

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Education Townsville is home to James Cook University and Central Queensland University as well as TAFE Queensland and several other independent training providers. This mix of education opportunities provides Townsville North Queensland diversity in the range of education offered to suit all demographics and interests, allowing local businesses to procure from a pool of appropriately trained staff.

advancements in marine and aquaculture commercialisation, research and innovation. This enabling infrastructure will underpin regional capabilities to ensure the local marine industry is able to grow in a competitive and sustainable way. Employment and local capacity will flow from the development of this facility. It will also ensure the protection of current marine assets and industry, guarantee the growth of domestic and export markets and develop a skilled workforce.

An undersupply of commercial pilots in Australia and internationally offers opportunities to provide aviation training. Additionally, an identified shortage of skilled labour in the mining and engineering industries provides the opportunity for TAFE and University courses to adapt to these needs, encouraging education that meets the evolving STEM skills required by industry.

The Centre will stimulate further development in the area by enabling critical mass of industry, researchers and students.

It will attract new ‘edu-tourists’ and help build a reputed precinct for knowledge workers within the Townsville CBD.

The significant number of transitioning Defence Personnel offers another suitable stream of training opportunities to be delivered through TAFE, allowing the uniquely trained personnel to adapt their skills to meet the needs of the civilian workforce.

The North Queensland climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, coupled with North Queensland’s relaxed and friendly culture, attracts international students to the region.

Education and the opportunity associated with the hosting of international students are key priorities. The economic contribution of international students extends to opportunities for accommodation/housing investments, subsistence expenditure and entertainment. The significant social and community benefits they bring to the region is capitalised on by establishing cultural festivals and other events which offer cultural exchange within the local community.

James Cook University is actively seeking to partner with industry, research and tourism organisations to establish the Australian Tropical Marine and Aquaculture Centre – an international marine research precinct that will promote

Townsville Enterprise and a range of industry partners have spent the past five years positioning the region as a ‘Destination of Excellence’ in edutourism, with a focus on faculty-led study abroad programs primarily targeting USA universities. This positioning leverages Townsville’s unique mix of educational, research and tourism institutions, with emphasis on the region’s reputation as a global leader in marine science research and education ( James Cook University, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, Australian Institute of Marine Science and CSIRO).

The Destination Tourism Plan for the region identifies a vision where visitors to Townsville North Queensland are immersed in leisure, learning, business and cultural experiences in the tropics, positioning the region as a centre for excellence in providing educational nature-based and cultural tourism experiences.

The EduTourism Consortium was successful in receiving a grant from Trade and Investment Queensland in 2017 to further develop its programs by strengthening the connectivity between education and tourism. This project will support the intended outcomes of the Townsville City Deal by cementing the region’s reputation as a world class edu-tourism destination.

Edutourism students Image by courtesy Budd Photography of Aurizon

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PROMOTION

Skilled workers add value to business operations TAFE Queensland is focused on improving regional prosperity and development by working with businesses, community groups and government agencies to build skilled workforces in line with our region’s present and future economic needs.

It’s well known that companies that invest in training are more productive, proactive and profitable. Business confidence in our region is rising and a number of infrastructure projects are on the cards; this climate will create jobs and reveal gaps in our region’s workforce, meaning it’s a great time to invest in your employees’ skills. Additionally, funded training opportunities for upskilling and reskilling may be available to eligible students and employers*.

To support your business’s goals, TAFE Queensland provides a free training needs analysis. Our staff are experts in identifying the exact training required to fill any skills gaps and achieve your business objectives. We also understand that it can be challenging for companies to co-ordinate staff training while running a business. For greater flexibility, TAFE Queensland can deliver on-site training and can customise bespoke programs to suit individual or company requirements.

TAFE Queensland can also help students gain Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). If your employees have existing skills or previous training, they may be eligible to gain credit towards a formal qualification through RPL – reducing study time and costs.

For 135 years TAFE Queensland has been at the forefront of vocational education and training. We recently strengthened our commitment to training in North Queensland, opening a third campus in Townsville. The new Aitkenvale campus complements our existing Pimlico campus and Townsville Trade Training Centre at the Bohle. TAFE Queensland also has campuses in Charters Towers, Ingham, Burdekin and on Palm Island; our extensive geographic reach means that we are uniquely positioned to enable equal opportunity, participation and skill enhancement for regional and remote Queenslanders.

Contact TAFE Queensland today to find out more about our innovative, practical and hands-on training solutions for employers. Phone: 1300 656 959 | Website: tafeqld.edu.au RTO 0275 CRICOS 03020E *eligibility criteria applies

WE MAKE IT OUR BUSINESS TO MAKE YOUR BUSINESS GREAT AT TAFE QUEENSLAND WE BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF TRAINING

With over 130 years of experience, we can provide large scale industry training solutions through to one-on-one apprenticeship guidance.

Our specialist team can work with your organisation to customise training to meet your business requirements.

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For a tailored training proposal call 07 4042 2654 or email BusinessDevelopment.north@tafe.qld.edu.au

tafeqld.edu.au RTO 0275

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Health and Medical A range of health and welfare services are available across Townsville, including two hospitals (public and private), several aged care facilities, a drug and alcohol facility as well as international aid services.

C ardiac care O rthopaedics P erinatal care

The Townsville Hospital Health Service (THHS) is the largest tertiary hospital in Northern Australia. It is the major referral hospital for North Queensland with an annual budget of approximately $900M and over 5,000 employees.

THHS has the largest Emergency Department in Queensland and coordinates the emergency recovery services for North Queensland including helicopter and fixed wing aircraft.

THHS shares its campus with James Cook University ( JCU) and has strong teaching and training partnerships. Major specialist areas include:

P aediatric care W omen’s health A llied health M edical research institute C linical teaching facilities A recently opened emergency department

N eonatal Intensive Care Unit P aediatric Intensive Care Unit L argest children’s service outside of Brisbane

The $15M Salvation Army Drug and Alcohol Facility was completed in February 2017, providing rehabilitation from drug, alcohol and gambling issues for adults and youth. The development includes a 52 bed residential and outpatients area and is the only youth residential program in Queensland.

P aediatric oncology C ardiac catheter lab M ajor oncology service Five Linear Accelerators treating cancer with high energy x-rays P ET scanner

A proposed $55M private hospital exists in West Townsville, seeking to transform the heritage listed former Townsville West State School; the development will provide 22 beds and four operating theatres. The project will deliver a hub of specialist services including orthopaedics, cardiology, urology and maxillofacial surgery and will provide significant opportunity for medical specialists to relocate to Townsville and for JCU graduates to realise additional employment prospects.

D igital hospital M edical research centre S pecialised birthing centre

A $10.7M upgrade to the renal and endoscopy unit is scheduled for completion in 2019. The upgrade will provide extra space for haemodialysis patients as well as two more procedure rooms for patients undergoing endoscopy treatment. Significant opportunities exist for local contractors to benefit during the construction phase.

Mater Health Services North Queensland is part of a large network of Queensland private hospitals. With two campuses in Townsville, specialty areas include:

An additional development on Palm Island for a $16.5M Primary Health Facility began in June 2017 with completion expected in 2018. The health facility will improve accessibility to critical health services for the Palm Island Community.

Youth With A Mission (YWAM) Townsville has operated for over 25 years delivering medical services, youth initiatives and training throughout North Queensland, Pacific Islands and South East Asia. Over 100 full-time volunteer staff operate out of the Townsville CBD campus. Significant opportunity for additional headquarters to be established in Townsville exists, considering the close proximity to Pacific Island nations as well as the $530M invested from the Australian Government into Papua New Guinea aid.

Image Townsville courtesy Hospital of Aurizon 2015

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PROMOTION

Planning for the future The Mater Hospital Townsville is undergoing a major redevelopment of the Pimlico Campus with construction of the $56 million Stage 1 Project to begin in 2018.

Initial civil infrastructure works are expected to begin on site in early 2018 with the main building works to begin late April 2018. The project is scheduled for completion in mid-2019.

The purchase of the land from the State Government for the partial closure of Lothair Street has allowed a dedicated new entry to the hospital to be incorporated into Stage 1. The new entrance into the hospital complex will be via Diprose Street.

Hospital chairman Patrick Brady said the redevelopment had involved many years of planning and is excited that the project start was imminent.

Stage 1 includes: L evel 1 (ground floor) – Entry link way to existing hospital

building and new radiology department.

L evel 2 – Day Surgery Unit reception, Pre-admissions Clinic,

Stage 2 Surgery Recovery Suites, staff change rooms and link to Cardiac Unit.

L evel 3 – Two new operating theatres (plus shelled space

for additional two operating theatres and link to existing theatres), Stage 1 Surgery Recovery Suite, Pre-operative Patient Preparation Suite and extensive refurbishment of existing operating theatres.

L evel 4 – Plant room

“This project will ensure that the Mater is well placed to meet the growing health needs of the community”, Mr Brady said.

“A project of this size not only delivers increased health services, but also creates a boost to the local economy through construction jobs and increased employment opportunities in the healthcare sector”.

A specialised medical centre and multi-storey carpark will be built concurrently with the Stage 1 development by a private developer.

The Mater Townsville Hospital has 201 beds across two campuses at Pimlico and Hyde Park and is serviced by more than 100 of the region’s leading consultants. The hospital employs approximately 850 staff making it one of the largest private employers in the Townsville North Queensland region.

MATER EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

• Minimal wait times - everyone welcome, no private health insurance needed • High quality care, personal attention and follow-up care • Access to the North’s leading specialists • Experienced Emergency Physicians and Nursing staff • Centrally located at the Pimlico Campus on Fulham Rd - On-site parking • Open 7am to 11pm seven days a week • Standard fixed fee* No out of pocket for DVA Gold Card holders and approved Work Cover.

P: 4727 4000 | E: emergency@matertsv.org.au | www.matertsv.org.au

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Innovation Townsville is positioned as a dynamic economy that is home to a diverse range of industries that contribute significantly to the Gross Regional Product (GRP) of North Queensland. Innovation and Research & Development (R&D) within organisations is a prominent attribute which enhances productivity and drives efficiencies.

With regional unemployment reaching levels as high as 10% in recent times, innovation and the region’s entrepreneurial spirit will be drawn upon to strengthen the Townsville North Queensland economy and create future opportunity.

Townsville Enterprise is working with regional partners to enhance local technology capabilities, skills and competencies by working with North Queensland Councils and the commercial sector to develop and deliver targeted primary and secondary school Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) and coding curriculum.

Education is the fundamental driver ensuring that future generations remain relevant and can productively contribute in a competitive global market place. It is vital to prioritise the education of the community’s future leaders, nurturing their skills at the earliest opportunity and provide them with rewarding career paths and opportunities, in order to retain local talent supportive of the region’s future. The valueadded contribution of the Education and Training industry to Townsville North Queensland’s GRP is approximately $814M, approximately 6.2% of the region’s total GRP. The sector has increased by more than 15% in 2016 and will remain a key economic pillar1.

Townsville is home to a number of internationally acclaimed innovative organisations including the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), the Northern Australian Cooperative Research Centre (CRC), the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), Tec-NQ, ACT for Kids, Central Queensland University (CQU) and James

Cook University ( JCU) research entities. These institutions are focussed upon the delivery of major programs that will empower the region’s next generation, delivering distinct competitive advantages moving forward.

To ensure that the youth of Townsville North Queensland are provided with the necessary skills, education, career paths and opportunities that will allow them to remain in the region and contribute to the North Queensland economy, accessible and equitable education must be on offer. Coding and STEM literacy are critical skill sets that will be required by future generations, encouraging critical thinking and delivering a learning experience that embeds a culture of problem solving through innovation. The sooner we move to equip the local community with these skills, the stronger the position the region will be in to take advantage of the global shift toward knowledge based economies and industry.

Townsville Enterprise is partnering with Townsville North Queensland Councils, universities, key stakeholders and industry to develop a public schools ‘STEM’ program that will introduce the youngest community members to the fundamentals of coding and rudimentary STEM curriculum.

This initiative will also seek to incorporate work undertaken in the private sector by groups including SAP SE and their Young ICT Explorer Program (YICTE) and work with the Department of Education and local universities to define clearer regional pathways in maths and the sciences, supportive of skill development and retention in North Queensland.

Encouraging IT and digital careers and providing children with relevant education experiences from a young age will foster their interest in these key disciplines and serve as the lifeblood of the region’s future economic subsistence.

Image courtesy of Aurizon

018

1

REMPLAN, Dec 2016

PROMOTION

CastleTown – be inspired There’s no doubt that ‘the north’ has come of age with great dining, a vibrant nightlife, a bevy of tourism attractions and excellent shopping! And if it’s shopping you want, then look no further than CastleTown.

Situated just three kilometres from the Townsville CBD, CastleTown has over 150 stores and services at your disposal in a beautiful, air conditioned environment. CastleTown is well-known locally for its wide, high malls, easy layout, and great selection of stores.

The centre is anchored at each end with a full-range Target store and Woolworths Supermarket, with CastleTown also boasting a Big W, Best & Less, Cotton:On Mega Store and The Reject Shop – along with a great range of fashion and accessories, beauty, homewares, fresh food in the Kings Road Market and outstanding services, including banking, post office, and Justice of the Peace two days a week.

CastleTown is sparkling clean and has a wonderful ambience, with a great selection of cafés and restaurants to relax in with friends and family or alone with a good book or magazine.

You’ll also find a great selection of fast food in the centre’s food court.

CastleTown Marketing Manager, Lorraine Marshall, said that CastleTown appeals to a wide age group.

“Families love us and enjoy the special activities we create for kids during school holidays”, said Ms Marshall.

“Young adults and teens enjoy shopping at places like Salt 66, Cotton:On, Cosmetics Plus, City Beach, Witchery, and Bras ‘n’ Things to name just a few. There is also a strong local seniors contingent of shoppers who find the centre easy to navigate and a great place to come to shop, meet their friends, have a coffee and cake or lunch at one of our great places to eat.

CastleTown has something to offer all age groups.

“If you’re looking for a little pampering, you can enjoy getting a new hairstyle, a massage, facial, full body tan, waxing, manicure/pedicure or a laser/injectable procedure all at CastleTown. You can even give your car a makeover while you’re in the centre with a car wash or detailing while you shop”.

CastleTown is your ultimate shopping destination in Townsville.

Be inspired with

OVER 150 STORES

OF GREAT SHOPPING FASHION | ACCESSORIES | JEWELLERY | HOMEWARES GREAT RESTAURANTS | CAFES | FOOD COURT FRESH FOOD AT KINGS RD MARKET SERVICES | BANKING | POST OFFICE HEAPS OF UNDERCOVER PARKING AIR-CONDITIONED COMFORT Just

minutes from Townsville CBD

castletown.com.au

019

Singapore Australia’s bilateral relationship with Singapore is one of the closest and most comprehensive in Southeast Asia.

Located in the heart of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Singapore is a vital regional trading hub providing critical transport, financial, education and medical services.

Singapore is Australia’s fifth-largest trading partner (over $25.7B in two-way trading in 2016), with the nation investing almost $98.9B in Australia in 2016. The SingaporeAustralia Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA) and subsequent Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) are the pillars upon which our two countries will strengthen economic, Defence, innovation, tourism, political and cultural ties and ensure that Australia remains a critical economy in the Asian Century.

North Queensland will soon host 14,000 Singaporean troops under the $2.25B joint Defence training agenda defined under the CSP. Our region must be proactive and leverage this unique opportunity in order to maximise economic outcomes that will assist in building local capability and sector expertise.

North Queensland’s relationship with Singapore extends far beyond the scope of the defined joint defence training activities proposed under the CSP. Our region’s agricultural, professional services, education and tourism trade with Singapore is expected to dramatically benefit from the progressive amendments introduced to the SAFTA in May 2016. Singapore is strategically placed to offer Australian business global/ ASEAN connectivity and provides investors access to the broader Asian region within seven hours’ flight time from North Queensland.

In September 2017 Townsville Enterprise hosted a ‘Singapore Insights Delegation’, providing North Queensland businesses the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of this dynamic economy and its influence across the ASEAN region.

Opportunities for trade and investment in Singapore exist in a number of key growth industries including: Aerospace; Healthcare and Aged Care; Infrastructure; Defence; Business Services, Technology (including fintech, medtech and edutech); Tourism; Education (VET, skills development, research); Food and Beverages.

The agricultural sector is critical to the Townsville North Queensland economy, contributing 2,977 jobs (3.4%) and approximately $910M (3.2%) to Gross Regional Product.

North Queensland’s agricultural sector (including key sub-sectors of farming, livestock, horticulture, fishing and aquaculture) represents significant growth opportunities for the region, with a strong reputation for quality and safety driving demand from high growth international markets including China, the Middle East, South Asia and ASEAN. Australia’s establishment of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with China (2015), Japan (2015), Korea (2015) ASEAN (2010), and Thailand (2005) will support developing demand from major export markets for our agricultural products and food security across the region.

Townsville Enterprise has been successful in securing Federal Government grant funding support from the Cooperative Research Centre for North Australia (CRC NA) to undertake a critical emerging markets, supply chain gaps analysis and sector capacity baseline study that will assist in guiding future industry development, investment decisions and advocacy supportive of the ongoing growth and prosperity of the North Queensland agricultural sector.

Image Singapore courtesy city of Aurizon skyline

020

PROMOTION

Airport on board as Townsville flies high Townsville Airport is in the midst of a multi-million dollar redevelopment that will satisfy ongoing passenger growth and cement its position as the gateway to North Queensland.

Already a major economic enabler for the region, Townsville Airport supports more than 3,000 jobs and contributes $420M to the economy.

An $80M redevelopment of the airport precinct is underway – an upgrade of the airport’s apron will provide 18,000 square metres of extra parking space and facilitate two additional domestic aircraft upon completion in March 2018.

Upgrades to the terminal, surrounding road networks and core airport infrastructure are also planned, said Townsville Airport Chief Operating Officer, Kevin Gill.

“Townsville is in the midst of a major resurgence and we are certainly feeling that at the airport. Our domestic and international connections have been boosted with the introduction of services to Port Moresby and the establishment of a very successful Melbourne route with Tigerair last year,” said Mr Gill.

“The Port Moresby service has been integral in connecting Townsville to not just Papua New Guinea, but major Asian cities like Manila and Hong Kong.

“Majority of domestic passengers with Tigerair’s Melbourne route are inbound visitors, which is having positive impacts on our economy through a flow on to local tourism operators.

“As a major economic enabler for North Queensland, we continue to be focused on driving growth and connectivity into and out of Townsville.”

Townsville Airport experienced its busiest month ever in July 2017, and has sustained strong growth since.

“It’s great to see business confidence in the region at a high point. This can be attributed to welcoming the likes of Adani operating its Regional Headquarters in Townsville, which will also use the Townsville Airport for 50 percent of its FIFO activity”, said Mr Gill.

“Townsville is on the up again and we’re thrilled to be on board for the ride.”

021

Papua New Guinea Papua New Guinea (PNG) is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world with over 800 languages and over 1,000 distinct ethnic groups. Most of the country’s population of almost 8 million live in rural communities and are faced with significant challenges in health, education and economic opportunity.

Geographic proximity and historical links have given PNG a special place in Australia’s foreign relations, with the bilateral relationship one of our most complex and wideranging. Government relations are underpinned by the Joint Declaration for a Papua New Guinea-Australia Partnership, which built on the Joint Declaration of Principles of 1987, revised in 1992.

Port Moresby is the capital of PNG – Townsville’s oldest Sister City. Since the establishment of the relationship in 1983, continued economic activity has prevailed between the two centres with some $500M in two-way trade now flowing between ports. The cities have a strong business relationship and the proximity of the two centres (Townsville is closer to Port Moresby than it is to Brisbane) offer ease and efficiency in trading.

Opportunities for the development of further tourism, trade and investment between Townsville and Port Moresby are emerging from stronger connectivity. Air Niugini announced in early 2017, the introduction of direct flights to the city from Townsville, allowing people to transit in less than two hours.

The Port of Townsville’s White and Grey Ship Attraction Plan has already secured cruise ship commitments for 2018 and further advocacy will ensure that passengers can board a cruise ship from the Townsville to then journey towards Papua New Guinea and the surrounding tropical islands.

Papua New Guinea lacks a depth of quality education options and requires significant investment to ensure skills are developed and transferred, essential in developing a globally competitive nation. Many PNG locals and expats choose to send their children to foreign schools to receive their education, with Townsville boarding schools and universities highly considered.

Townsville’s safe investment climate, value for money and friendly beachside culture is an attractive haven for Papua New Guinean real estate investors. At present there is potential for North Queensland to broaden its international promotion of real estate opportunities to PNG nationals and its expat community.

Papua New Guinea is experiencing a severe skills shortage in many sectors; one that Townsville is well placed to service is the provision of information technology support. To diversify PNG’s asset base and increase employment, investment is

022

needed in electricity, telecommunications, road and other transport infrastructure.

The Australian Government will provide an estimated $546.3M in total official development assistance to PNG in 2017–18. This will include an estimated $478.7M in bilateral funding to PNG managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. PNG continues to face enormous challenges in providing access to quality health services and education opportunities. Australia is assisting PNG to achieve a more effective health system, targeting improvements in maternal and child health and communicable disease control.

Tropical and third-world diseases are prevalent in Papua New Guinea and the established world-class research facilities located at James Cook University can accommodate this research. Through the presence of YWAM and JCU interests locally, Townsville medical research institutions are well placed to initiate relationships within the industry to facilitate the transfer of knowledge and skills, benefiting the people of Papua New Guinea and creating jobs in the industry for Townsville residents.

The isolated communities of PNG rely on their immediate resources to produce food, clothes and housing. Along with the introduction of direct flights to Port Moresby, there is an opportunity to export local fruit and vegetables grown in Townsville as well as our superior quality fresh milk.

Existing supply practices for PNG involve importation of fresh produce from the United States. Townsville’s improved connectivity to PNG presents the significant advantage of enabling produce to be transported directly from regional farms to Port Moresby in under two hours before being transferred to the surrounding islands.

Australia has made a strong commitment to support PNG’s hosting of Asia–Pacific Economic Corporation (APEC) in 2018, with Townsville’s proximity to PNG warranting the city’s inquiry as to how it can assist PNG in hosting the Summit. As one of the few international airports with the capability to land wide bodied jets (747s and A380s) near Port Moresby, Townsville should position itself as an alternate/secondary destination to assist with the overflow of international guests and dignitaries from the 2018 APEC Summit.

PNG’s growth trajectory and abundant resource potential provides a strong platform for further economic engagement with Australia, Asia and further abroad.

PROMOTION

Twenty years in the making According to Managing Director Ashley Finn, the success of Pacific Islands International is attributed to continuing his father, Mick Finn’s legacy and his style of doing business.

the offers have been tempting, they have only been fleeting, due to the family’s love for Townsville and the north.

“Our service delivery model is quite simple,” explains Ashley.

“We conduct our business based on our family values. This means we treat each customer, each supplier and each logistic partner as though they are extended family. No request is too small; we strive to be the service leaders.”

“Dad was born and bred in Townsville and we love the lifestyle up here,” says Ashley. “We live in the best part of the world. We have easy access to PNG now with the direct flights and all of our other markets can be serviced through Brisbane. We are located on the doorstep of the Asia Pacific region, so we are well positioned to take advantage of some of the fastest growing economies in the world.”

As a wholesaler of building and construction materials to distributors in the market, Pacific Islands International provides the full supply chain – arranging the manufacturing of the materials, through to the delivery to port, consolidation of multiple products and shipping to international markets.

In 2017 the family built a custom-designed warehouse and offices to cater for the future growth of the business. The opening of the new Northern Link premises in Shaw is a significant milestone, as Pacific Islands International looks toward the future.

“Our internal culture sets us apart,” said Ashley. “It goes back to our core values of doing business – teamwork leads to success.”

“I guess you can safely say with the opening of our new premises and our history here in Townsville that we are here for good,” laughs Ashley. “As a business, we employ locals and use local service providers wherever possible. We try to give back to our community as much as possible and we are very passionate about the future of this city.”

Numerous offers to relocate the business to southern cities have been presented over the years, and although at times

YOUR SUPPLIER OF

QUALITY BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

WE CONDUCT OUR BUSINESS BASED ON FAMILY VALUES.

PII FAST FACTS EMPLOYING 4

NOW OPEN RETAIL AND TRADE PAINT SHOP MICK FINN HOUSE | 12 NORTHERN LINK CIRCUIT, SHAW

+61 7 4773 2444 | PACIFICISLANDS.COM.AU |

023

Townsville City Aerial by Budd Photography

Recently Completed MAJOR SPONSOR

SECTION SPONSOR

PROMOTION

Central – an award-winning development Central is an award-winning staged ‘Urban Renewal’ project developed by Honeycombes Property Group, a Queensland-based Development Company, along with its partner, the Chapman Group.

The $450 million master planned, multi-stage development was designed to convert Townsville’s inner city’s western sector into an energy-filled, self-sufficient and exclusive community, thriving in Townsville’s CBD. Located on the waterfront of Ross Creek, the six hectare Central precinct comprises of a combination of mixed use projects. The completed developments include a strategic combination of tertiary education, retail and commercial buildings, as well as various award-winning apartment complexes integrated throughout the site.

Recently completed in March 2017, the $12.83 million Central CQUniversity is a purpose-built, education facility located in Central’s Commercial Precinct. The building was designed and equipped upon brief from CQUniversity with a vision to expand their existing Townsville CBD campus.

Central CQUniversity accommodates between 150 and 200 students and comprises a ground-level foyer with a library and

reception area, generating an inviting entry statement to the centre. The upper levels encompass cutting edge facilities which are available for utilisation by CQUniversity staff and students.

Central CQUniversity precinct has delivered a highly demanded, state-of-the-art education facility to expedite increased student expression of their desire to learn collaboratively. Benefitting from Townsville’s Priority Development Area’s (PDA) fast-tracked development application process, the entire 2,592m 2 project from commencement of construction to the delivery phase took a record time of just six months.

Through Honeycombes’ comprehensive expertise, strong integration skills and extensive level of commitment, they were able to produce a high performance outcome in every aspect of project delivery. Honeycombes ensured that the key component in the overall Central strategy further increased the all of day activity within the development by complementing the existing commercial and retail offerings.

Central CQUniversity will foster a popular learning hub for students to meet, collaborate and be inspired in the heart of Townsville’s CBD.

Visit www.honeycombesproperty.com.au | Follow us on LinkedIn

026

SECTION SPONSOR

Recently Completed Projects included in this report are those successfully delivered and operational in the 2016 and 2017 calendar years.

During this period, 77 projects have been successfully completed in the Townsville North Queensland region, with

a value of over $1,631.9B. This is an indication of the robust regional economy currently thriving in Northern Australia.

Given that these projects represent both public and private investment in sectors ranging from industrial and logistics to social and retail, the diversity of this region’s economy, which has historically been one of its major advantages, is set to continue.

Recently Completed: Overview of projects in the Townsville North Queensland Region SECTOR

NUMBER OF PROJECTS

INVESTMENT ($M)

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATIONAL JOBS**

Aged Care

4

$42.1

100

243

Commercial

1

$4.2

8

9

Community Infrastructure

9

$50.4

99

45

Defence

4

$206.2

406

199

Education

7

$30.2

67

58

Environmental

2

$23.0

45

12

Health Infrastructure

2

$12.1

24

26

Industrial

3

$114.5

225

47

Logistics

15

$580.7

1,142

522

Research

2

$111.0

330

200

Residential

9

$170.7

537

22

Resources

1

$17.2

34

6

Retail

6

$133.0

339

501

Sport and Recreation

3

$49.5

97

53

Utilities Infrastructure

9

$87.1

171

21

77

$1,631.9

3,624

1,964

Grand Total

* Direct Construction Employment figures are provided by the project proponent or have been calculated using the latest REMPLAN industry data tables. These employment numbers assume the project construction and spend is completed in one year. These numbers are only an estimate. ** Direct Operational Employment figures are provided by the project proponent or have been calculated using the latest REMPLAN industry data tables. The main industry supported by the project has been selected as the guide employment table for each individual project operational employment numbers. These numbers are only an estimate.

This report includes: 1) Projects valued at $5M or greater in Townsville; 2) Projects greater than $1M in the Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook and Palm Island (‘Townsville North Queensland Region’); and 3) Projects of significance/relevance from elsewhere in Queensland (‘Surrounding Region’).

CityPoint Image courtesy in Townsville of Aurizon CBD

027

SECTION SPONSOR

Recently Completed PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

5.0

Jun 2016

10

5

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) ADF – Roads Civil and Infrastructure construction at Mount Louisa, Lavarack Barracks and Townsville Field Training Area

Townsville

Federal Government

–

Roads, infrastructure and civil construction at Mount Louisa, Lavarack Barracks and Townsville Field Training Area in North Queensland.

AIR 9000 Phase 5C Chinook Replacement Facilities

RAAF Base Townsville, Garbutt

Federal Government

Lendlease

54.8

Jun 2017

108

53

acilities and supporting infrastructure for the new F Model Chinook Medium Lift Helicopter. Includes simulator building, maintenance hangars, workshop and F accommodation facilities.

Asphalt Plant and Transport Depot

Roseneath

Fulton Hogan

Perry McDonald Constructions

–

Apr 2016

–

–

Jun 2016

90

47

Shifting of operations from the Bohle to Roseneath, including construction of a new asphalt plant.

Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine

Douglas

James Cook University, Federal Government, Queensland Government

Watpac

31.0

Construction of tropical health research facility at JCU Douglas campus. Includes biological facilities, specialist laboratory support spaces and offices.

Bushland Park Estate

Bushland Beach

Townsville Earthmoving

Townsville Earthmoving

17.0

Dec 2016

10

2

22.0

May 2016

60

200

10

11

20

22

Residential estate in Northern Beaches suburb of Bushland Beach.

Carinity Fairfield Waters Aged Care Facility Stage 1

Idalia

Carinity

–

Integrated aged care facility, three storey 96 bed aged care facility. Opened mid 2016 and is 2/3 occupied.

City Express

Townsville CBD

Lancini Property & Development, Northern Management Group

–

5.0

2016

Inner city service centre with an existing McDonalds, second phase to includes a petrol station and fast food outlet.

City Point Redevelopment – Stage 1

Townsville CBD

Lancini Property & Development

–

10.0

2017

R edevelopment and expansion of former CBD Woolworths site into retail and commercial office space. The building’s gross leasable area has been expanded from 3,832m2 to 4,693m2 and is a vibrant mixed-use centre.

CQU three-level campus space – 'Building 2'

Townsville

CQU – Central Queensland University

–

–

May 2017

–

–

T he building is a massive extension to Townsville's pre-existing Building 1, housing an additional 12 teaching spaces, a state-of-the art nursing simulation space and two boardrooms.

Dalrymple Road Bridge

Bohle

Federal Government, Townsville City Council

–

40.0

2016

79

30

C onstruction of two lane bridge with 3.5m lanes in each direction totalling aproximately 450m. Also includes shared pathway for cyclists and pedestrians and channelling works including drains and culverts.

Defence Logistics Transformation Project

Lavarack Barracks

Federal Government

Lendlease

145.2

May 2017

286

140

L ogistics facilities and infrastructure upgrade including new administrative storage, and maintenance facilities for North Queensland Joint Logistics Unit.

028

SECTION SPONSOR

Recently Completed PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

5.0

2016

10

5

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Department of Main Roads refurbishment – Garbutt Depot

Garbutt

Department of Transport & Main Roads

A.Gabrielli Construction Pty Ltd

R efurbished Transport & Main Roads Department in Garbutt now the front line customer service centre for Townsville. Includes 10 new custom built counters for a relaxed face-to-face environment.

Eastbrooke Health Hub

Thuringowa

Eastbrooke Medical Centres

–

–

Nov 2017

–

–

E astbrooke has transformed the former Thuringowa Central Council Chambers into Queensland’s largest health hub, comprised of leading health, wellness, medical, retail and professional service providers.

Echlin Street Reservoir

West End

Townsville City Council

Mendi

10.2

2017

20

2

C onstruction of a new reservoir (Two steel tanks with capacity of 70ML) to service the CBD as part of the $43M CBD utilities upgrade program.

Fairfield Homemaker Centre Stage 1

Idalia

Geon Property

Phoenix Constructions

16.0

2017

31

36

D evelopment of a 32,000m2 bulk goods retail centre, adjacent to Bunnings Warehouse at Fairfield Waters. Includes nationally recognised brands such as Pillow Talk, Beacon Lighting, Pet Barn, Greencross Vets and World Gym. Fairfield Waters commercial and unit complex Stage 1

Idalia

Idalia Investments

Gedoun

4.2

Mar 2016

8

9

Mick Baker Constructions

65.0

Sep 2016

100

8

C ommercial space complex with 16 residential units above.

Fulton Gardens Unit Development

North Ward

CPR Townsville

2 8 ‘core and shell’ style unit development on the grounds of the former Townsville General Hospital. Complex includes pool, gym, car park, home office facilities, and landscaped grounds ranging from 310m2 to 440m2.

Good Shepherd Home Refurbishment & Minor Expansion – Stage 1

Annandale

The Good Shepherd Home

Woollam

15.0

Aug 2016

30

32

10

11

R edevelopment of existing accommodation and construction of a new 60 bed facility at the aged care home.

Good Shepherd Home Refurbishment & Minor Expansion – Stage 2

Annandale

The Good Shepherd Home

Woollam

5.0

Oct 2017

R edevelopment of existing accommodation and construction of a new 30 bed facility at the aged care home.

Mt Louisa Reservoir

Mount Louisa

Townsville City Council

–

5.5

2016

11

1

Stockland

7.5

Mar 2016

15

8

RCQ

19.0

2017

37

2

N ew 22ML water storage reservoir in Mount Louisa.

Northern Beaches Community Centre and Cyclone Shelter

Burdell

Federal Government, Stockland Developments Pty Ltd

U pgade of community centre to withstand a Category 5 cyclone.

Piccadilly Apartments Stage 1

Townsville CBD

Honeycombes Property Group

P iccadilly Apartments form the 5th residential development to be constructed within the Central Master Plan. The 38 unit apartment complex overlooks Ross Creek.

Piccadilly Apartments Stage 2

Townsville CBD

Honeycombes Property Group

–

14.3

2017

28

2

4 1 one, two and three bedroom apartments in the Central Precinct on Flinders Street West.

029

SECTION SPONSOR

Recently Completed PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

1.2

2017

2

1

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Replacement of Electrical Substations at RAAF Base Townsville

Townsville

Federal Government

–

T his project involved the replacement of substations and undertaking an appraisal of existing high voltage and low voltage electrical infrastructure at RAAF Base Townsville.

Riverside Gardens Stage 3

Douglas

Blue Sky Alternative Investments

GPH Projects

15.0

Dec 2016

40

2

A partment complex featuring 100 one, two, and three bedroom apartments. Stage 3 consists of 38 units. Construction commenced late 2015.

Riverway Express

Condon

Halcorp

Laurence Lancini Constructions Pty Ltd

2.0

Nov 2017

3

4

BMD Constructions

8.8

Jun 2016

17

7

‘Drive-thru’ fast food amenity in the Condon area.

Roadworks – Local Network – Townsville – Various Projects – 2015/2016

Townsville

Department of Transport & Main Roads

B ridge over Bohle River on Dalrymple Road has been completed. Improved safety conditions ensure the road remains open in all but severe weather events.

Roadworks – National Network – Townsville – Various Projects – 2016/2017

Townsville

Department of Transport & Main Roads

Seymour White

89.5

Jun 2017

176

66

R econfiguration of Bowden Road, Church Road & Black River road intersections, these are vital improvements for safety and traffic efficiency.

Ryan Catholic College Stage 2

Kirwan

Townsville Catholic Diocese

–

5.0

2017

10

10

Civil – RMS Engineering Construct – to be tendered

15.0

Feb 2017

30

7

N ew hospitality, staff area, and refurbishment of teaching areas.

Salvation Army Drug and Alcohol Facility

Townsville

Salvation Army

P roviding rehabilitation from drug, alcohol and gambling issues for adults and youth. The development includes a 52 bed residential and outpatients area. The only youth residential program in Queensland.

Southern Cross Catholic College Stage 2

Annandale

Townsville Catholic Diocese

–

9.0

2016

18

17

Townsville Catholic Diocese

–

1.2

Dec 2017

2

2

Townsville City Council

–

38.7

2017

76

9

Dec 2016

79

120

E xpansion of secondary school facilities.

St Anthony's Padua Campus

Deeragun

R efurbishment to school facilities.

Storm Water Drains

Townsville

S torm water drains from new subdivisions as part of Townsville City Council capital works program.

Stuart Intermodal Facility

Stuart

Aurizon

A.Gabrielli Construction Pty Ltd

40.0

N ew Train Freight & Container Terminal with associated rail and road infrastructure. The project drive is to move the current terminal out of the CBD and open the area up for urban development with the associated benefits of minimising the rail interaction with the public. The new facility is located so it has access to all major highways.

Subdivision Roads

Townsville

Townsville City Council

–

64.5

2017

127

48

2016

60

3

R oads from new subdivisions as part of Townsville City Council capital works program.

The Edge

North Shore

Ellis Developments, Stockland

–

22.0

7 2 dwelling development adjacent to the North Shore Stockland shopping centre. Completed 5 of 12 Stages.

030

SECTION SPONSOR

Recently Completed PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

Lendlease

80.0

Dec 2016

240

153

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) The Science Place

Douglas

James Cook University

C onstruction of a four storey research and teaching facility on JCU's Douglas Campus. To include laboratories, lecture theatres, seminar space, Technology Enabled Active Learning (TEAL) spaces, flexible work spaces and central social hub with seating clusters for group work and peer to peer learning.

Thuringowa Drive Housing Development

Townsville

Ellis Developments

Ellis Developments

3.7

2017

120

0

–

44.5

2017

88

48

S tate Government initative to provide social housing.

Townsville Golf Club redevelopment

Rosslea

Townsville Golf Club

C ourse reconfiguration, designed by Karrie Webb and Bob Harrison, plus the construction of new facilities including a clubhouse. The building cost of the 55 units or the 236 residences is not reflected in this development value.

Townsville Grammar School North Shore campus

North Shore

Townsville Grammar School

–

7.0

2017

14

13

E ducation facilities for Prep to Year 3 students is operating and all classes are filled for 2017, further to Grade 6 will be added in the future.

Townsville Hospital expansion Stage 5 – Planned Procedure Centre

Douglas

Queensland Government

Hutchinson Builders

12.1

Dec 2016

24

26

Two new procedure rooms with support space, additional recovery bays, second and third stage recovery spaces and day surgery capacity.

Townsville Recreational Boating Park (TRBP) – Stage 2

Railway Estate

Townsville City Council

–

5.0

2017

10

5

ccess to one more boat ramp (four additional boat lanes) with floating walkway. Includes access to 30m pontoon, 140 parking spaces, additional wash down A bays, stormwater upgrade, lighting and CCTV and additional landscaping.

Townsville Recreational Boating Park (TRBP) – Stage 3

Railway Estate

Townsville City Council

–

–

2017

–

–

200.0

Jun 2017

393

148

F inal stage of the TRBP project, adding commercial facilities.

Townsville Ring Road Stage 4

Townsville

Federal Government, Queensland Government

Seymour White

inal two lane, two-way 8km section of Townsville Ring Road, crossing Bohle Plains. Links existing sections of the Ring Road at Shaw Road intersection and runs F north-west, connecting to the Bruce Highway near Mt Low Parkway.

Upgrade Hervey Range Road

Black River

Department of Transport & Main Roads

–

7.8

Oct 2016

15

6

ervey Range Road, 10km of road between Lynam Road to Alice River Bridge has been widened with the centreline treatment which should improve safety and H travelling conditions.

Veer Apartments

North Ward

PDS Qld

–

11.0

Sep 2016

22

1

7.0

Jun 2017

21

13

25.4

2017

50

6

E ight unit complex with dining and retail space on The Strand. Construction started June 2015.

Verandah Walk

Douglas

James Cook University

RCQ

C overed walkway and bridges interconnecting main centres of university activity.

Water infrastructure to new subdivisions

Townsville

Townsville City Council

–

W ater infrastructure connection to subdivision lots as part of Townsville City Council capital works program.

Webb Drive Industrial Estate Stage 4B – 4,000m2 Industrial Shed

Bohle

BM Webb Group

–

4.5

Oct 2016

9

3

20.0

Dec 2016

39

15

Construction of 4,000m2 shed on the new Industrial Estate.

Webb Drive Industrial Estate Stage 4B

Bohle

BM Webb Group

–

C ivil works for next stage of Webb Drive Industrial Estate subdivision.

031

SECTION SPONSOR

Recently Completed PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

70.0

2017

270

360

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Willows Shopping Centre expansion Stages 2 and 3

Kirwan

Dexus Property Group

–

I t is planned that the centre will become four times bigger as part of the 20 year master plan with a floor space of 82,500m². The centre opened on 24 August 2017, showcasing Townsville's only Harris Scarfe store.

Woolworths CBD Development

Townsville CBD

Lancini Property & Development

Laurence Lancini Constructions Pty Ltd

30.0

2016

5

67

Relocation and expansion of CBD Woolworths store to full line facility with specialty stores. Official store opening occurred 6 December 2016.

Works4QLD Community Infrastructure Program

Townsville

Townsville City Council

Various builders

21.8

Nov 2017

43

23

2 community projects have been completed across 88 locations across Townsville. Works include: park and streetscape upgrades, Palmer Streetscape 6 project; security and public lighting upgrades, castle hill walking track, pathway and car park upgrades to a number of suburban streets; rural road improvements; shade structures and an upgrade to the Strand Water Park.

Wotton Street Housing Developments

Townsville

Ellis Developments

Ellis

3.7

2017

120

0

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

13.0

2017

26

4

State Government initative to provide social housing.

PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND REGION (Projects valued at greater than $1M) Astaxanthin Project

Burdekin

MBD Energy

–

A large-scale industrial facility for the production of natural astaxanthin for aquaculture and nutritional product markets.

Burdekin Catholic High School

Burdekin

Townsville Catholic Diocese

–

1.0

2016

2

2

Burdekin

MBD Energy

–

10.0

Sep 2016

20

8

177

28

H ospitality class rooms.

MBD Energy Water Remediation Project

B ioremediation of waste water for aquaculture and agriculture to aviod nutrient contamination of the Great Barrier Reef.

Greenvale Processing Facility

Charters Towers

Agripower Australia Limited

–

90.0

Feb 2017

D iatomaceous earth processing plant for production of non synthetic soil/plant health/growth/promotant fertiliser. Raw materials mined in Greenvale and transported to site by road. Anticipated output per annum of 1 million tonnes.

Roadworks – National Network – Charters Towers – Various Projects – 2016/2017

Charters Towers

Department of Transport & Main Roads

–

1.2

Jun 2017

2

1

–

1.8

Jun 2016

3

1

–

17.2

2017

34

6

V arious road projects on the Gregory Development Road.

Roadworks – State Network – Charters Towers – Various Projects – 2015/2016

Charters Towers

Department of Transport & Main Roads

V arious road projects on the Gregory Development Road.

West 45 Mine and Processing Plant

Charters Towers

Red River Resources

T halanga mill refurbishment is expected to be completed and commissioning activities started in 2017, with West 45 ramping up to design production levels.

Ingham CBD Master Plan – Stage 1

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

S tage 1 – Revitalisation of Ingham CBD in collaboration with James Cook University.

032

1.2

Jun 2016

2

1

SECTION SPONSOR

Recently Completed PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

–

9.0

Jun 2016

18

7

–

0.5

Jun 2016

1

0

0

0

BUILDER

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND REGION (Projects valued at greater than $1M) Roadworks – National Network – Hinchinbrook – Various Projects – 2015/2016

Hinchinbrook

Department of Transport & Main Roads

V arious road projects including Bruce Highway upgrades.

Airstrip Runway Resealing

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

R esealing the airstrip. Funded through the Australian Government's $11.6M Remote Airstrip Upgrade Programme.

Casement Lookout (Scenic Lookout Upgrade Program)

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

0.3

2017

T he Sylvia Rueben lookout has been revitalised to help boost tourism, and honour former Palm Island Councillor Sylvia Rueben.

Coolgaree Bay Community Connectivity

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

1.7

Oct 2017

3

2

T he $1.7M Coolgaree Bay Community Connectivity project includes the construction of a footpath and lighting from the helipad to Manbarra Road.

Palm Island Waste Disposal Facility Rehabilitation

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

1.4

Oct 2017

3

0

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

2.1

2017

4

1

Apr 2017

0

0

Jun 2017

1

0

U pgrading capacity.

Pipeline from Bamboo Creek Dam to Francis Creek Dam

A new fresh water management pipeline installed between Bamboo Creek Dam and Francis Creek Dam. Sandy Boyd Aged Care

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

0.1

E ssential residential aged care facilities including 15 beds and a secure garden within a small home.

Sandy Boyd Creek Bridge Upgrade

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

0.4

A n upgrade to Sandy Boyd Creek Bridge funded under the Australian Government's Bridges Renewal Programme to support a vital upgrade of local bridge infrastructure.

Seawall Construction from Helipad to Doctor’s Point

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

2.1

2017

4

2

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

1.5

Aug 2016

3

0

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

1.3

Oct 2016

3

0

1.0

Jun 2016

2

0

E xtending the seawall.

Sewer Treatment Plant Upgrade U pgrading capacity of plant.

Water Treatment Plant Upgrade Part 1

Aremix Pty Ltd

U pgrade of the water treatment plant to enable sea water treatment.

Water Treatment Plant Upgrade Part 2

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

P alm Island has upgraded water and sewage utilities infrastructure to cope with current demands, allowing for growth of the community and support for tourism growth on the Island.

033

SECTION SPONSOR

Recently Completed PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

James Cook University

Hutchinson Builders

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

25.5

Dec 2017

74

39

SECTOR

SURROUNDING REGION (Significant Projects) Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine Cairns Facility

Cairns

T he Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine (AITHM) is a multi-disciplinary health and tropical medicine research institute located in the tropics.

AITHM facilities have been developed in Cairns, which includes a new research building on Smithfield Campus, as well as renovated space in existing building E1.

Cairns Aquarium and Reef Research Centre

Cairns

Cairns Aquarium, Federal Government

FKG Group

50.0

May 2017

250

80

C onstruction of 7,500m2, three level public aquarium and research centre with café and restaurant facilities as well as a research laboratory.

Nova City Display Suite (was Nova8)

Cairns

Aspial Corporation

Hutchinson Builders

2.0

Oct 2016

4

3

Scouller Energy

14.0

2016

20

3

600

400

4 30m2 display suite for the Nova City Complex.

Normanton Solar Farm

Normanton

Scouller Energy

5 MW solar PV power station. Connects directly to Ergon Energy Normanton Substation located close to the Solar Farm.

Dugald River Mine

Cloncurry

MMG

–

1,860.0

Dec 2017

D evelopment of a base metals mine, with production expected to reach approximately 1.7Mtpa of ore and produce 160,000 tonnes of zinc over a 25 year mine life.

Lakeland Solar Farm

Cooktown

Lyon Infrastructure

BMD

60.0

Dec 2017

200

20

2 6MW Solar PV farm with an expected 20 year life span will produce enough electricity for approx 3,000 homes. Construction completed, waiting to be connected to the grid and arrival of the battery storage infrastructure.

Curtis Island LNG Plants

Gladstone

Australian Pacific LNG, Gladstone LNG,

Bechtel

11,000.0

2016

12,000

3,476

C onstruction of three liquefied natural gas plants on Curtis Island off Gladstone. The separately owned plants have all been constructed by Bechtel.

Toowoomba Grand Central Redevelopment

Toowoomba

QIC

–

500.0

2017

1,500

1,000

120.0

2017

236

15

R edevelopment and expansion of the Grand Central CBD shopping centre.

Weipa Housing Project

Weipa

Bowen Basin Contractors

Matusik

G ated community featuring 100 three and four bedroom houses and 70 two storey town houses, as well as community facilities including a gym and swimming pool. More housing will be built to cope with projected population boom resulting from the expansion of Rio Tinto’s bauxite operations.

Image by Megan MacKinnon

034

Under Construction MAJOR SPONSOR

SECTION SPONSOR

PROMOTION

Watpac creates local opportunities with North Queensland Stadium project The North Queensland Stadium project will provide the Townsville North Queensland region with an iconic sporting stadium. National construction group, Watpac, is proud to be playing a key role in delivering this bestpractice facility.

Watpac was appointed Managing Contractor for the $250 million project in May 2017 following a competitive tender process, and will undertake the design and construction management of the new 25,000 seat stadium.

Located south-east of Townsville’s central business district, this multi-purpose regional facility is a joint project of the Queensland Government, Federal Government and Townsville City Council, and is supported by the National Rugby League (NRL) and the North Queensland Cowboys.

The Stadium forms part of the Townsville City Deal signed in December 2016.

To be completed in time for the start of the 2020 National Rugby League (NRL) season, a major focus for Watpac over the course of the project is to engage with local businesses to provide opportunities for North Queensland residents.

036

With over 750 jobs expected to be supported over the course of the project’s design and construction phases, Watpac is targeting 80 per cent of construction hours to be undertaken by locals, with 80 per cent of the construction value to be spent on local subcontractors and suppliers. The business is also committed to achieving a target of 6.6 per cent of the construction workforce being Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people.

To help achieve these targets, local capabilities have been taken into consideration within the project’s design where possible, and trade packages have been tailored to suit the capacity of North Queensland businesses.

Having operated in the Townsville community for 20 years, Watpac has delivered more than $1 billion worth of work in the region. These projects are diverse in both scale and complexity with some of the Group’s landmark projects including the Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine and Translational Research Facility at James Cook University, the Riverway Arts Centre and Lagoons and Riverway Stadium, and a number of Defence facilities at Lavarack Barracks.

SECTION SPONSOR

Under Construction Projects in this report include those under construction at the time of publication. There are currently 84 projects in the construction phase with a value of over $16.19B in the Townsville North Queensland region. The wide range of industries these projects belong to are a reflection of the region’s diverse economy.

Government continues to recognise the importance of this region, with over $4.67B of publicly funded projects underway. The Australian Defence Force (ADF) projects, that have a Townsville North Queensland component, accounts for $1.46B in the project list (Townsville North Queensland estimated portion of this ADF investment is unknown). The Singapore Armed Forces estimate that the training ground developments in the Townsville North Queensland region will equate to $1.25B. This significant investment in the region

will require extensive services and support over the 25 year contract life with Singapore.

Renewable energy investment is growing in the region with $634M under construction, predominantly related to solar power generation. Townsville North Queensland is a logical location to build renewable facilities due to the region receiving over 300 days of sunshine per year.

Continued population growth has further fuelled Townsville’s expansion in residential development. There are currently 26 development estates in the construction phase. These residential estates account for over $10.53B of investment spend. The $10.53B residential spend rate will be driven by residential housing demand over the coming years.

FUNDING SOURCE

11.51B

4.67B

OF PROJECTS UNDER CONSTRUCTION

Under Construction: Overview of projects in the Townsville North Queensland Region SECTOR

NUMBER OF PROJECTS

INVESTMENT ($M)

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATIONAL JOBS**

Aged Care

1

$33.0

65

100

Commercial

2

$8.5

90

55

Community Infrastructure

8

$8.0

16

8

Defence

6

$2,714.2

5,339

2,623

Education

7

$83.2

164

160

Health Infrastructure

3

$97.2

193

210

Industrial

1

$20.0

39

5

Logistics

9

$1,184.6

2,619

868

Mixed Use

1

$0.2

0

0

Renewable Energy

4

$634.0

973

209

26

$10,535.5

7,241

1,329

Retail

5

$82.2

233

378

Sport and Recreation

4

$264.4

505

289

Tourism

3

$81.2

160

49

Utilities Infrastructure

4

$451.4

888

108

84

$16,197.6

18,523

6,391

Residential

Grand Total

* Direct Construction Employment figures are provided by the project proponent or have been calculated using the latest REMPLAN industry data tables. These employment numbers assume the project construction and spend is completed in one year. These numbers are only an estimate. ** Direct Operational Employment figures are provided by the project proponent or have been calculated using the latest REMPLAN industry data tables. The main industry supported by the project has been selected as the guide employment table for each individual project operational employment numbers. These numbers are only an estimate.

037

SECTION SPONSOR

Under Construction This report includes: 1) Projects valued at $5M or greater in Townsville; 2) Projects greater than $1M in the Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook and Palm Island (‘Townsville North Queensland Region’); and 3) Projects of significance/relevance from elsewhere in Queensland (‘Surrounding Region’).

PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

409.9

2020

806

396

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) AIR 5431 Phase 2&3 – Defence Air Traffic Management System and ADF Air Traffic Control Complex Infrastructure Project

RAAF Base Townsville, Garbutt

Federal Government

–

N ew Air Traffic Control tower, Airfield Systems building and radar facilities. Note investment value is the nation wide project investment (13 sites).

AIR 7000 Phase 2B – Maritime Patrol Aircraft Replacement Project

RAAF Base Townsville, Garbutt

Federal Government

–

707.9

2020

1,392

684

F acilities and infrastructure to support new visiting Boeing P-8A ‘Poseidon’ maritime patrol aircraft. Includes runway extension, taxi through rinse facility, taxiway works and modifications to Maritime Ordinance Loading Aprons. Note investment value is the nation wide project investment (5 sites).

Altira Estate

Mount Louisa

Elements NQ

–

45.0

2035

89

6

R esidential development on elevated land in Mount Louisa, behind the ElementsNQ developed Greenview Estate. Stage 1 & 2 completed, currently working on Stage 3.

Aurora Estate

Mount Louisa

Elements NQ

–

10.0

2018

20

1

89.0

2018

175

5

2018

3

2

–

65

100

R esidential development in Mount Louisa. Stage 1 completed of the six stages.

Bayside Master Planned Community

Bushland Beach

Sunland Group

Various builders

P hased release of new residential land stages as part of the Master Planned Bayside Community.

Brookstone on The Park

Condon

Halcorp

Laurence Lancini Constructions Pty Ltd

15.0

1 30 lot residential estate in Condon. Close to local parks, schools and recreational amenities.

Carinity Aged Care Facility Stages 2–5

Idalia

Carinity

–

33.0

E xpansion to include 65 independent living units and community facilities. Stage 2 began construction October 2017 which is the development of a display unit. Other stages of development will depend on market demand.

Cleveland Bay Purification Plant Process Upgrade Project

Oonoonba

Townsville City Council

–

51.0

2020

100

12

A technical process engineering upgrade of existing sewage treatment process assets to accommodate the full process treatment of three times the average dry weather flow (87 megalitres per day) continuously for 30 days to ensure continued compliance with environmental requirements for effluent discharge.

Cosgrove Master Planned Community

Mount Louisa

Parkside Developments

Mendi Constructions

250.0

2035

492

32

May 2018

12

11

2 ,100 lot residential development including retail, business and park facilities as well as a school.

Cowboys Leagues Club Upgrade

Townsville CBD

Cowboys Leagues Club

Phoenix Constructions

6.0

R enovation of Leagues Club, occupying neighbouring block with 900m2 to 1,100m2. To include new dining and beverage offerings, conference room, further improvements to gaming area, indoor/outdoor kids zone.

DHA – Bluewattle Estate

Rasmussen

Defence Housing Australia

–

–

2024

–

–

1 ,300 lot housing estate in Rasmussen. 430 housing lots to be built for Defence, with the remaining 870 lots developed for sale to the general public.

Domain Central Market Place

Townsville

Queensland Investment Corporation

–

6.0

2018

60

50

T he Market Place project at D ­ omain Central will add more than 1,100m2 of floor space through the construction of two new buildings located in the centre of the complex, to bring a ‘new level of connectivity and convenience’ to the centre.

038

SECTION SPONSOR

Under Construction PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

40.0

2018

50

5

365

887

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Eden Park Residential Estate

Jensen

Maidment Development Group

–

1 42 lot residential estate. Two stages completed with another three to go. Stage 3 started construction February 2017.

Elliot Springs residential development

Hansen Construction NQ

Julago

7,000.0

–

D evelopment of a satellite community with 10,600 residential dwellings and commercial and community facilities. 15 kilometres south of Townsville CBD. Over 26,000 residents on completion. 1,609 hectare development. 40 year community development. Close proximity to Murray Sporting complex, Army Barracks, Townsville Hospital, James Cook University and the Townsville CBD. Energy Queensland Garbutt Depot

Garbutt

Energy Queensland

A.Gabrielli Construction Pty Ltd

20.0

–

39

5

C omplete refurbishment of Building 3 which includes office construction of quiet rooms, teapoints, utility print rooms, video-conference/meeting rooms, toilets/shower facilities, workstations as well as all furniture and fittings. An additional bay has been added to the existing building, new awning to the eastern side and cantilever awning to the south inclusive of workshops and storage areas within the building. The construction of a new oil handling facility comprising 2 x 24,000L tanks, pumps and hazardous substance enclosures for gas and flammable goods has also been constructed within this first stage. Civil works have been significant with the construction of heavy and light fleet car parking, internal roadways, staff and visitor carparks and a new wash down bay facility.

Fairfield Central Stage 3

Idalia

Lancini Property & Development and Fairfield Land Pty Ltd

–

33.0

2019

65

74

E xpansion of existing sub-regional shopping centre Fairfield Central. Expansion will include the addition of a full line Coles supermarket and 1,500m2 of specialty retailers.

Fairfield Homemaker Centre Stage 2

Idalia

Geon Property

Phoenix

14.0

Dec 2018

28

31

C ontinuation of the development of a 32,000m2 large format centre, adjacent to Bunnings Warehouse at Fairfield Waters. Stage 2 will be home to more nationally recognised brands.

Greater Ascot Residential Development

Bohle

Parkside Developments

Townsville Earthmoving

210.0

2030

413

27

2018

24

2

2 ,000 lot residential development in northern suburbs of Townsville, with a town centre and school.

Hampton Grove

Mount Louisa

MBT Capital

–

12.0

F eaturing a limited release of 47 exclusive large residential lots at a minimum of 1,000m2, Hampton Grove enjoys dedicated access to a private haven within a secure community.

Harris Crossing Residential Development

Bohle

Maidment Development Group

BMD Urban

160.0

2022

315

20

P remier river front development residential estate – a total of 750 lots. Stage 2 and 3 started November 2016 and still currently under construction.

Haughton Water Pipeline Duplication

Townsville

Townsville City Council

–

218.0

2019

429

52

B uild an additional 1,800mm diameter pipeline and install additional pumps (of 234 ML/day capacity) from Haughton Pump Station to Ross River Dam. Increase the capacity by 234ML/day of the existing SunWater pump station and gravity channel from Clare to Haughton Pump Station.

Sourcing cheaper energy by connecting new and existing pumps at the Haughton Pump Station to nearby high voltage lines.

Haven Residential Housing Development

West End

Ellis Developments

Ellis

65.0

2019

130

8

R esidential estate featuring a mixture of house, townhouse and adjoining unit lots. Development to include parkland.

Holy Spirit Caholic School, Cranbrook Stage 1 of New Master Plan

Cranbrook

Townsville Catholic Diocese

–

3.5

Apr 2018

7

7

257.0

2020

506

33

E xpansion of secondary school facilities.

Kalynda Chase Estate

Bohle

Lancini Property & Development, Urbex

Urbex

1 ,500 lot residential estate, including community and sporting amenities, extensive parkland and commercial centre.

039

SECTION SPONSOR

Under Construction PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

72.0

2030

142

9

276.5

2019

544

267

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Kingston Park Estate

Deeragun

Parkside Developments

Lavarack Barracks

Federal Government

–

7 20 lot residential estate.

Land 121 Phase 3 – replacement of the current fleet of Australian Defence Force Field Vehicles, Modules and Trailers

Lendlease

P rovision of facilities and infrastructure to accommodate new vehicle fleet. LAND 121 Phase 3B will acquire 2,707 medium and heavy vehicles along with 3,858 modules and 1,704 trailers. Delivery of new fleet expected to continue until 2020. Note investment value is the nation wide project investment (8 sites).

LAND 155 Enhanced Gap Crossing Capability Facilities Project – Project Element 2

Lavarack Barracks

Federal Government

–

23.4

2018

46

23

H ardstand and shelter for storage of bridging equipment and Integrated Load Handling System (ILHS) vehicles. Note: investment value is the nation wide project investment (four sites).

Land 17 Artillery Replacement Facilities Project Element 2

Lavarack Barracks

Federal Government

–

46.5

2018

91

45

R efurbished working accommodation and gun hangars for elements of 4th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery. Note investment value is the nation wide project investment (8 sites) Liberty Rise Estate

Mount Louisa

Parkside Developments

Mendi Constructions

53.0

2025

104

7

Patrick Property Investments

Hobson Constructions

305.0

2030

600

39

5 30 lot residential development.

Mount Margaret Estate

Rupertswood

8 50 lot residential development located at Alice River catering to larger sized lots (2,000m2).Stage 4 has now been completed, currently developing Stage 5.

North Beach Estate

Mount Low

Townsville Earthmoving

Townsville Earthmoving

18.0

–

10

2

1,073.0

2030

2,111

136

R esidential estate in the suburb of Mount Low. North Shore – Northern Beaches Master Planned Community

Burdell

Stockland Development Pty Ltd

–

5 ,487 lot residential development with 50ha sub-regional town centre. An innovative and award winning master planned community, offers schools, parks, aquatic centre, town square and a neighbourhood Stockland Shopping Centre. 30% is dedicated to natural open spaces.

North Shore State School

Burdell

Queensland Education Department

CPB Constructions Pty Ltd

50.0

2020

98

96

2018

120

250

C onstruction began in 2017 and Stage 1 will be completed and 200 enrolments accepted in 2018.

Northern Beaches Shopping Centre

Bushland Beach

Marquette Properties

Hutchinson Builders

25.0

S hopping complex on the corner of Mount Low Parkway and Lionel Turner Drive, to include a Coles supermarket and 15 other shops, with approximately 5,000m2 of total retail space.

Port of Townsville Berth 4 upgrade

South Townsville

Port of Townsville Ltd

Port of Townsville Ltd

40.7

Feb 2018

100

30

U pgrade of Berth 4 to accommodate Panamax size general cargo vessels in combinations with the development of a general cargo terminal.

River Parks Development

Kelso

Devine

–

350.0

Dec 2022

688

44

Downer Group

210.0

2018

413

50

7 2ha residential development containing 900 lots.

Rollingstone Solar Farm

Rollingstone

ESCO Pacific

T he Rollingstone Solar Farm is a 110MW utility scale renewable energy project located 60km north-west of Townsville CBD. Townsville City Council granted Development Approval in December 2016.

040

SECTION SPONSOR

Under Construction PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

225.0

2018

150

54

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Ross River Solar Farm

Townsville

Energy Australia & ESCO Pacific

Downer Group

C onstruction of 142MW Solar Farm at a disused mango plantation in Kelso. The farm will generate enough power for 52,000 homes. The area is believed to experience approximately 320 days of sunshine each year.

Ryan Catholic College Stage 3

Kirwan

Townsville Catholic Diocese

–

3.0

–

6

6

Maidment Development Group

–

200.0

Dec 2030

393

25

E xpansion of secondary school facilities.

Sanctum Residential Development

Mount Low

M aster planned estate with associated community infrastructure. Totalling 1,300 lots, with 600 completed. Stage 21 started Feb 2017.

Singapore Defence Force Troop Training Centre in Townsville

Townsville

Singapore Government and Federal Government

–

1,250.0

2021

2,459

1,208

E xpanded troop training for Singapore will be based in Shoalwater Bay and Townsville in Queensland. Singapore will spend $2.25B on training facilities, barracks, roads, fencing and other measures, with the investment roughly split between the two sites. The Australian Army will be able to use the facilities.

St Benedict's Catholic Primary School Shaw Stage 1

Shaw

Townsville Catholic Diocese

Jackson & Semler

16.0

2018

31

31

Stuart

Sun Metals

RCR Tomlinson

199.0

2018

210

100

–

40.0

2035

79

5

–

2.5

2018

30

5

N ew Primary School Stage One. Sun Metals Solar Farm

1 16 MW Solar Farm, construction scheduled to be finished in Q2 2018.

The Orchard Estate

Jensen

Elements NQ

S tarted in 2016 – residential estate around Mt Kulburn.

The Shed Rural Retail

Bluewater

DWC

A community, architectually designed retail hub. Key features include high exposure, cool tropical design, sustainable environmentally friendly construction elements, located in the heart of Bluewater.

The Village

Oonoonba

Economic Development QLD

–

180.0

2023

354

23

8 3ha residential development with plans for approximately 1,000 homes. Stages 1–6 and 10 completed. Stage 7 & 12 commenced.

The Ville Resort–Casino Redevelopment

North Ward

Colonial Leisure Group

–

40.0

May 2018

79

43

R edevelopment of The Ville Resort–Casino as part of a business rebranding. To include additional restaurant and hotel facilities to create an entertainment precinct. The Quarterdeck opened in December 2017. The pool, gym, day spa and Pavilion Convention Centre are expected to open at the end of March with Palm House to open in May 2018.

The Woods Residential Estate

Deeragun

Parkside Developments

Mendi

74.0

2030

146

9

Queensland Airports Ltd

BMD

10.0

Mar 2018

44

7

7 40 lot residential development.

Townsville Airport – Apron redevelopment and expansion for regular passenger transport

Garbutt

I n 2017 Townsville Airport Apron project included pavement strengthening, asphalt resurfacing and expansion works to the existing aprons on the secure 'airside' area, adjacent to the domestic terminal building. Project funded through a $9M investment from State Government plus $1M from Townsville Airport.

Townsville CBD Bus Hub

Townsville

Townsville City Council

–

4.0

2018

45

3

T ownsville’s CBD is the public transport hub for the broader city and requires a bus hub to service interchanges, future growth and customer needs. There are currently over 2,400 weekly bus services linking the CBD to Townsville’s suburbs which are likely to increase as population expands.

041

SECTION SPONSOR

Under Construction LOCATION

PROJECT

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

7.6

Jul 2018

20–25

8

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Townsville Civic Theatre Refurbishment

Railway Estate

Townsville City Council

Hutchinson Builders

U pgrade of theatre facilities. Contract awarded. Works commenced early November 2017. Building works shall include improvements to equitable access, HVAC and electrical equipment, house lighting and control, access for equipment serviceability, roof replacement and upgrade of the orchestra pit and hoist system to reduce OH&S issues. The theatre will close from late December 2017 to early July 2018 to allow works to be completed.

Townsville Disaster Coordination Centre

Garbutt

Townsville City Council

–

5.7

Sep 2018

11

6

T ownsville Disaster Coordination Centre to manage and coordinate recovery from disasters. Building to survive and continue operating in a Category 5 Cyclone.

Townsville Hospital Renal and Endoscopy Unit Upgrade

Douglas

Queensland Government

–

10.7

2019

21

23

E xtra space for haemodialysis patients and two more procedure rooms for patients undergoing endoscopy treatment. $5.9M for endoscopy and $4.8M for the renal unit. Opportunity for local contractors for the construction phase.

Townsville Mater Hospital Redevelopment

Pimlico

Mater Health Services

–

70.0

2019

138

151

T he Master Plan includes four stages of development of the Fulham Road site. Key elements of the plan include new three, four and six storey buildings, relocation of the main entry off Lothair Street, additional medical suites for specialists, six level car park, new surgical facilities and maternity ward, new ambulance services, demolition and refurbishment of existing buildings, new chapel, a landscaped ‘green heart’, and overall increase to 369 hospital beds.

Townsville Stadium

South Townsville

Townsville City Council, Townsville Enterprise Limited

Watpac

250.0

2020

492

269

2 5,000 seat state of the art multi-use stadium in Townsville CBD. Integrated with Entertainment Centre Project (still seeking funding).

Water Services Upgrade

Townsville

Townsville City Council

–

165.0

2018

325

40

4.0

2018

8

3

11.0

2020

22

1

Completion of ring main from southern suburbs to Cleveland Bay as part of capital works program.

William Angliss Drive / Mervyn Crossman Drive Intersection Upgrade

Annandale

Townsville City Council

Kirwan

Parkside Developments

–

I ntersection upgrade.

Willowbank Estate

1 10 lot residential development.

042

Mendi

SECTION SPONSOR

Under Construction PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

43.8

Jun 2018

86

22

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND REGION (Projects valued at greater than $1M) Burdekin River Bridge Maintenance

Burdekin

Queensland Government

–

T he Burdekin River Bridge rehabilitation and maintenance project is a program of works that will preserve the integrity of the bridge and ensure a safe and durable crossing is maintained for the long term use of vehicles, heavy transport operators, cyclists and pedestrians.

Clare Solar Farm

Clare

FRV

Downer Group

–

May 2018

200

5

T he construction of the 100MW Clare Solar Farm project began early May 2017. Powerlink has commenced work to expand its Clare South substation to help deliver the Clare Solar Farm, one of Australia’s largest solar farms. All of Powerlink works are progressing well to achieve the connection of the solar farm by Q4 2017.

Replacement of Haughton River Bridge

Burdekin

Department Transport and Main Roads

–

500.0

–

984

371

C onstruction of a higher level bridge and road approach to improve flood immunity for the Haughton River crossing near Giru.

Roadworks – National Network – Burdekin – Various Projects

Burdekin

Department of Transport & Main Roads

–

551.0

2021

1,084

409

R oad and rail upgrade of Haughton River Bridge and Pink Lily Lagoon, installation of a higher bridge to improve flood immunity at the Haughton River, Safety enhanced with elimination of two rail crossings at the Bruce Highway intersections with the Woodstock Giru Road and Hodel Road. Works to begin 2019.

Columba Catholic College

Charters Towers

Townsville Catholic Diocese

–

4.5

2018

9

9

40.0

2022

79

5

R efurbishment and construct new teaching spaces.

Kernow Development

Charters Towers

Tarleton Property Australia

Can NQ Pty Ltd

M aster planned community of 410 dwellings of various types including a re-development of existing buildings, new buildings, land blocks and lifestyle facilities (eg. recreational lake).

Upgrade to Water Infrastructure for Charters Towers

Charters Towers

Charters Towers Regional Council, Dep of Infrastructure & Regional Development

-

17.4

2019

34

4

S uccessful National Stronger Regions Funding Round 1 application. Works commenced.

Gilroy-Santa Maria College

Ingham

Townsville Catholic Diocese

-

1.2

-

2

2

Everett Family Trust

-

6.5

–

13

1

N ew teaching facilities and rooms.

Hinchinbrook Habitats Land Subdivision

Ingham

R esidential subdivision and ecotourism property development in the Wet Tropics rainforest. 254.95ha overlooking Hinchinbrook Island. The estate approval comprises of 110 home sites as well as 50 cabins, a restaurant and conference centre on Mount Separation, with panoramic views of the Herbert region and Hinchinbrook Channel.

Roadworks – National Network – Hinchinbrook – Various Projects – 2017/2018

Hinchinbrook

Department of Transport & Main Roads

–

29.9

2018

266

22

V arious road projects including Bruce Highway upgrades. Cattle and Frances Creeks upgrade (includes two bridges, raising the highway, upgrading rural intersections, improving flood immunity at Frances Creek rest area).

St Teresa's College

Abergowrie

Townsville Catholic Diocese

–

5.0

2018

10

10

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

0.2

2018

0

0

N ew dormitories.

Butler Bay Park Upgrade

B eautification of the Butler Bay foreshore in line with the current revetment wall construction.

043

SECTION SPONSOR

Under Construction PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

0.2

2018

0

0

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND REGION (Projects valued at greater than $1M) Container Park

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

E stablishment of a contemporary container park to be used for exhibition space during the centenary events in 2018 and then repurposed to become a small business incubator in late 2018 and onward.

Coolgaree Bay Community Connectivity Stage 3

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

0.4

2018

1

0

2018

2

1

E xtension of footpath and lighting from Kitchener Bligh Estate to Klub Kuda budget accommodation.

Coolgaree Bay Foreshore Redevelopment Stage 1

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

1.0

T he redevelopment is designed to improve community space, support tourism growth, improve health and safety and create new employment opportunities.

Coolgaree Bay Foreshore Redevelopment Stage 2

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

0.2

2018

0

0

T his project extends the Coolgaree Bay foreshore redevelopment to improve liveability and wellbeing.

Council Building Maintenance

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

0.2

2018

0

0

–

0.2

2018

0

0

2018

34

36

20

22

S ignificant external maintenance of the existing Council building.

Palm Island Cemetery Fencing

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

C onstruction of a fence around the cemetery permiter (approx 850m) to reduce damage.

Palm Island Primary Health Facility

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

16.5

T he health facility will increase access to health services and will expand better services for the Palm Island Community.

Palm Island Retail and Business Precinct

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

10.0

2021

C reation of a commercial town centre for the Palm Island community. Stage 2 redevelopment of CBD (Stage 1 – Primary Health Facility $16.5M a under construction) Stage 2 includes mixed retail on the ground floor and commercial tenancies on the 1st floor.

Palm Island Sports Precinct Upgrade

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

0.8

Jun 2018

2

1

2

1

U pgrade of Footbal ground, netball courts and clubhouse facilities as well as essential services upgrade.

Peter Gumbellah Prior Ferry Terminal

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

1.2

2019

C onstruction of a purpose built ferry terminal that will provide safe, all weather waiting area for ferry passengers, a ticketing solution and retail opportunities.

Construction designs are underway. As the main access point, the terminal is critical infrastructure for the island.

Road Resealing Program

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

1.3

2019

2

1

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

0.2

2018

0

0

2018

0

0

I mprovements to 7km of roads on Palm Island.

Shopping Complex Upgrade

Palm Island

T he refurbishment of small shopping complex and ventilation improvements to fish and chip shop.

Sid Casey Lookout

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

0.2

C onstruction of a lookout at Sid Casey viewing point on Wallaby Point Road. The project will contribute to tourism related infrastructure and provide amenity for residents.

044

SECTION SPONSOR

Under Construction PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

6,400.0

2022

4,800

2,000

SECTOR

SURROUNDING REGION (Significant Projects) Waratah Coal's Galilee Coal Project, Northern Export Facility

Alpha, Barcaldine Region

Waratah Coal

–

G aililee Coal Project (Northern Export Facility) - China First Coal Project integrated coal mine, railway and port facility project for the export of thermal coal.

40mtpa of coal. Mine life expectancy is 25 to 30 years.

Cairns Southern Access Corridor Stage 2

Cairns

Federal Government

BMD

58.0

2018

147

43

B ruce Highway upgrade, with widening to six lanes planned between Sheehy Road and Ray Jones Drive. $46M of project committed by Federal Government.

JCU Cairns Campus Student Accommodation

Cairns

James Cook University

ADCO

40.0

2018

87

21

3 00 bed on-campus accommodation facility. The seven-storey complex covers 9,450 square metres and represents a $40M investment by JCU. It was designed

by Wilson Architects and is being built by ADCO Constructions.

Nova City

Cairns

Aspial Corporation

–

550.0

2024

1,082

70

S ix residential and one commercial tower built in the Cairns area, each between 17 and 20 storeys. Overall, this will result in 1,132 new apartments in the city, as well as 6,000m2 of retail space and 11,000m2 of office space. Civil works have commenced.

Petersen Park Expansion

Cairns

Cairns City Council

–

2.8

2018

120

0

E xpansion of local football fields as well as Stage 1 being the preparation of 12 residential lots. Stage 3 includes new amenities block, clubhouse and carparking for 169 cars and bus parking.

Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project with Headquarters Based in Townsville

Galilee Basin – 160km NW of Clermont

Adani Mining

–

16,500.0

–

1,075 – Mine 1,400 – Rail

3,800 – Mine 120 – Rail

O ne of the largest open-cut and underground coal mines with associated railway line into Abbot Point Bowen. Townsville and Rockhampton announced as joint FIFO hubs in October 2017.

Bauxite Hills Mine

Cape York Peninsula

Gulf Alumina Ltd

–

90.0

Apr 2018

100

160

B auxite mine 100km north of Weipa with a project life of 17 years. Estimated reserve of 92.2 million tonnes and total resources of 144.8 million tonnes Forsayth Wind Farm

Etheridge

Infigen Energy

To be announced

170.0

–

100

5

W ind farm development project near Forsayth in North QLD. Once constructed, the project will include up to 30 wind turbines (70MW) that connect via a new substation into the 132kV Ergon transmission line, which runs between Townsville and Georgetown.

Kidston Solar Farm – Phase One 50MW

Kidston

Genex Power

Genex Power

126.0

2018

150

30

C onstruction commenced Q1 2017. First generation expected Q1 2018. Federal and State Funding. 30+year project lifespan. 65 people employed on site.

Federal Government provided $8.9M and a 20 year PPA from QLD Government. The operating project is capable of powering 26,484 Australian homes while offsetting 120,000 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Kidston Solar Farm – Phase Two 270MW

Kidston

Genex Power

McConnell Dowel Constructors & Downer EDI

–

2019

–

–

104

102

L argest solar project in the southern hemisphere at 270MW. Integrated with pumped storage hydro project.

Hann Highway Upgrade and Sealing

Hughenden

Flinders Shire Council, Etheridge Shire Council

–

53.0

2019

S tate and Federal Government Funding has been allocated to carry out upgrades to the Hann Highway connecting Hughenden to the Lynd.

Kennedy Energy Park – Stage 1

Hughenden

Kennedy Energy Park Holdings

Windlab

160.0

Dec 2018

100

10

K ennedy Energy Park Phase I is an innovative 43.5MW Wind, 15MW Solar and 2MW Li Ion battery storage hybrid project located near Hughenden in far North Queensland. The site was identified and developed by Windlab Limited and is now owned by Kennedy Energy Park Pty Ltd, a 50/50 joint venture between Windlab with Eurus Energy Holdings Corporation of Japan.

045

SECTION SPONSOR

Under Construction PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

RATCH Australia / Port Bajool

CATCON (Civil & Allied Technical

380.0

Sep 2018

150-200

15

SECTOR

SURROUNDING REGION (Significant Projects)

Mt Emerald Wind Farm

Mareeba Shire Council

C onstruction of a 53 turbine, 540MW wind farm between Atherton and Mareeba. Ergon Energy has been offered a 12.5 year power purchase agreement.

450,000 tonnes CO2 reduction.

Re-opening of Capricorn Copper Mine (Gunpowder)

Mount Isa

Capricorn Copper/ Lighthouse Minerals

–

110.0

–

90

220

B ynecut Mining has secured $300M, 5 Year contract to Capricorn Copper Mine, the mine has a minimum 10 year life span.

Northern Territory Gas Pipeline

Mount Isa – Northern Territory

Northern Territory Government

Jemena

800.0

2018

900 jobs, 600 of those are local

192

I nfrastructure from the Northern Territory to meet gas demand from the eastern states. The NGI Pipeline is set to run between Tennant Creek and Mount Isa. The line would be able to provide NT gas for Export LNG Projects in Queensland. Contracts to local businesses are set to be worth $112M. Amrun (South of Embley) Project

Weipa

Rio Tinto

QH & M Birt Pty Ltd

70.0

2018

150

1,400

C onstruction of Greenfield Bauxite Operation, processing and port facilities, in the Weipa/Arakun region. Production and shipping to commence first half of 2019, full production by end of 2019.

Collinsville Solar Farm

Collinsville

RATCHAustralia

UGL

100.0

Jul 2018

120

2

S olar photovoltaic plant on the site of the former Collinsville Power Station. Proposed capacity of 36MW, with estimated annual generation of 80GW. Whitsunday Coast Airport Expansion

Proserpine

Whitsunday Regional Council

–

40.0

2019

40

30

E xtension of runway, taxiway and apron began July 2017, representing the first phase of a five-stage development planned for the Proserpine-based facility.

Image by Megan MacKinnon

046

Investment Ready MAJOR SPONSOR

SECTION SPONSOR

PROMOTION

A seaside address with investment credentials The relaxed seaside lifestyle of the Bayside master planned community in Bushland Beach is fast becoming the investment centre of Townsville’s growing Northern Beaches precinct. The creation of award-winning developer Sunland Group’s Bayside at Bushland Beach, is home to more than 1,300 families and is the region’s only beachfront master planned community, adjoining the shores of Halifax Bay and stunning views of Magnetic Island.

Sunland Group Managing Director, Sahba Abedian, said an extraordinary level of private and public-sector investment has transformed the beachfront community into a connected, thriving lifestyle destination.

“Bushland Beach has always offered natural beauty and lifestyle opportunities,” Mr Abedian said. “Now, it offers a host of investment credentials as well.”

Mr Abedian said as the gateway city to Northern Australia, Townsville is in a unique position to benefit from the expansion of a range of key industry drivers, including Defence and Health.

“This investment is also extending to the grassroots community level, where major transport upgrades, leisure infrastructure, and new retail centres are creating greater

lifestyle and investment opportunities,” he said.

In 2017, the $200 million Townsville Ring Road extension was completed, cutting travel time to Bushland Beach and placing the city’s major retail and employment hubs less than 15 minutes away. The first stage of the multi-milliondollar upgrade of Peggy Banfield Park, located at the centre of Bushland Beach, has delivered new off-leash dog areas, BBQ shelters, open play spaces, and football fields. The new Coles shopping centre at Bushland Beach Plaza is on track to open in early 2018, alongside new specialty retailers.

Mr Abedian said these local investment initiatives, combined with the State Government’s Great Start Grant and competitive house and land packages from Townsville’s leading builders, are enabling more first home buyers to enter the property market.

“Bayside is a vibrant, family-friendly community with parkfront and beachfront amenities, at a price point that makes home ownership possible to a broader spectrum of the market. It has a very bright future within the context of Townsville’s evolving economic framework.”

For more information visit bushlandbeach.com.au or phone 1300 816 989.

LAND WITH ISLAND VIEWS FROM $129,000

SALES AND INFORMATION SUITE – CNR LIONEL TURNER DR & SALONIKA CCT, BUSHLAND BEACH OPEN DAILY 10AM – 4PM OR BY APPOINTMENT | BUSHLANDBEACH.COM.AU | PHONE 1300 816 989

048

SECTION SPONSOR

Investment Ready The projects seeking investment in Townsville North Queensland reflect the economic drivers in Northern Australia.

The current investments available are heavily focused on renewable energy, utilities infrastructure and mixed use

developments with retail, accommodation and commercial spaces combined.

Focal projects of this investment space include the PacificHydro Haughton Solar Farm valued at $1.7B and the Hells Gates Dam proposal with an estimated value of $1.3B.

Investment Ready: Overview of projects in the Townsville North Queensland Region SECTOR

NUMBER OF PROJECTS

INVESTMENT ($M)

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATIONAL JOBS**

Accommodation

2

$65.0

174

42

Commercial

1

$50.0

98

112

Community Infrastructure

3

$5.0

10

2

Food Processing

3

$106.8

210

34

Health Infrastructure

2

$168.0

528

548

Industrial

1

$–

–

–

Mixed Use

5

$480.0

1,959

1,253

Renewable Energy

2

$2,340.0

700

260

Residential

1

$15.0

30

5

Retail

2

$70.0

138

157

Sport and Recreation

1

$26.0

50

28

Tourism

2

$11.2

22

12

Utilities Infrastructure

4

$1,360.5

2,676

326

29

$4,697.5

6,595

2,779

Grand Total

* Direct Construction Employment figures are provided by the project proponent or have been calculated using the latest REMPLAN industry data tables. These employment numbers assume the project construction and spend is completed in one year. These numbers are only an estimate. ** Direct Operational Employment figures are provided by the project proponent or have been calculated using the latest REMPLAN industry data tables. The main industry supported by the project has been selected as the guide employment table for each individual project operational employment numbers. These numbers are only an estimate.

This report includes: 1) Projects valued at $5M or greater in Townsville; 2) Projects greater than $1M in the Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook and Palm Island (‘Townsville North Queensland Region’); and 3) Projects of significance/relevance from elsewhere in Queensland (‘Surrounding Region’).

The projects outlined in this document represent only a portion of the investment opportunities available in the Townsville North Queensland region.

Please phone the Townsville Enterprise Economic Development Team on +61 7 4726 2728, email tel@tel.com.au or visit townsvilleenterprise.com.au for more information.

049

SECTION SPONSOR

Investment Ready PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

10.0

2019

20

11

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Acacia Waterpark Development

Bohle Plains

Crystal Gobal Investments

White Water West

A unique Townsville development, Acacia Waterpark plans to operate five water slides, three pools, a kids area and a lazy river rafting ride. This leisure facility and unique tourism attraction will complement the other attractions and events in the region. The Townsville North Queensland climate is particularly well suited to water sports.

CBD Student Accommodation

Townsville CBD

Townsville City Council, James Cook University

–

–

–

–

–

41

7

98

112

F easibility being conducted into the possibility of repurposing existing office buildings for student accommodation.

Davco – Dingo Park Feedlot and Meat Processing facility

Townsville

Davco Agriculture

–

20.8

–

F eedlot, live export depot and abattoir on the outskirts of Townsville. Feedlot available, abattoir seeking investment.

Fairfield Homemaker Centre Stage 3–5

Idalia

Geon Property

–

50.0

Dec 2018

A complementary mixed use development adjoining 32,000sqm of large format retail, adjacent to Bunnings Warehouse at Fairfield Waters. The project is currenty in the design phase and will be unique to Townsville.

Great Barrier Reef Cultural Centre

Townsville CBD

PDS Qld

–

50.0

–

98

112

C ommercial, retail, tourism and cultural education centre of excellence. Building with the Indigenous Trust Einstand Pty Ltd. JCU Student Accommodation

Douglas

James Cook University

–

65.0

Jan 2019

174

42

5 00 bed student accommodation project with ground floor tenancies. The project will form the 'Ideas Market' at the centre of Mt Stuart Street on the Douglas campus.

Nelly Bay Development

Magnetic Island

Private Proponent

–

–

–

–

–

D evelopment of waterfront at Sooning St site. This 6 ha site is adjacent to the Nelly Bay ferry terminal.

Over 200 Rural Residential Lots

Bluewater

DWC

–

15.0

2025

30

5

–

450.0

Dec 2018

1,900

1,200

A pproval for large rural residential subdivision located in Bluewater.

The Hive

Townsville CBD

Geon Property

T he Hive masterplan comprises a Strand public plaza connection through the site, connecting The Strand to Flinders Street; Two way traffic upgrade to The Strand, King Street, Flinders Street and Wickham Street. Refurbished Criterion Hotel, function spaces and boutique commercial office accommodation. Other uses include up to 10,000m2 of A-Grade commercial space, research, tourism and education facilities, hotel and circa 100 premium residential apartments.

Griffin Group hopes it will attract 1.1 million people to the area every year and inject $27M into the economy.

University Private Hospital

Douglas

James Cook University

–

113.0

–

328

429

A world-class university private hospital with an emphasis on training, research and learning. To be co-located with the James Cook University Townsville Campus and The Townsville Hospital Health Service. The project will service the city, the region and will also draw patients from South East Asia and Melanesia.

Vantage On Palmer (Stage 1)

Townsville CBD

PDS Qld

–

10.0

–

20

18

–

20

18

–

20

18

Dec 2018

200

119

C omplex featuring mix of short and long term accommodation units along with office and retail space.

Vantage On Palmer (Stage 2)

Townsville CBD

PDS Qld

–

10.0

C omplex featuring mix of short and long term accommodation units along with office and retail space.

Vantage On Palmer (Stage 3)

Townsville CBD

PDS Qld

–

10.0

C omplex featuring mix of short and long term accommodation units along with office and retail space.

Weststate, Townsville West

Townsville CBD

Geon Property

–

55.0

A private hospital providing 22 beds and four operating theatres has been proposed for the site of the heritage-listed former Townsville West State School at West End. It will deliver a hub of specialist services including orthopaedics, cardiology, urology and maxillofacial surgery. Office space spanning 2400m2 has been created over three fully refurbished floors in the historic building together with a new adjoining building.

050

SECTION SPONSOR

Investment Ready PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

6.0

–

12

2

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE NORTH (Projects valued at greater than $5M) (ProjectsQUEENSLAND valued at greater than $5M) KFSU – Stage 2

Burdekin

KFSU

–

E xpansion of facilities that process sugar cane into patented natural food additives. Three stage expansion plan looks to optimise current expansion, increase marketing, commercialise sugar cane juice by-product and expand production with a new plant site. Stage 1 valued at $1M, Stage 2 $3M and Stage 3 $3M. PacificHydro Haughton Solar Farm

Burdekin

PacificHydro

RCR Tomlinson Ltd

1,700.0

2019

250

10

P acific Hydro submitted a planning application in March 2017 for Stage 1 of the project, which will cover approximately 1,200ha. Installation of approximately 1,000,000 photovoltaic solar panels, with construction on the site to start in early 2018. The Haughton Solar Farm is expected to have a generating capacity of up to 500MW, enough to power approximately 170,000 homes.

Charters Towers Meat Processing Facility

Charters Towers

Charters Towers Regional Council

–

80.0

2018

157

25

A dvanced business plan prepared by the BDO Australia. Establishment of a facility to process locally sourced North Queensland product for local and export marketing. Concept and environmental planning being prepared and undertaken by Charters Towers Regional Council.

Hells Gates Dam

Charters Towers

Townsville Enterprise Limited

–

1,300.0

–

2,557

311

T ownsville Enterprise is delivering a $2.2M feasibility study, due in April 2018. The dam could unlock up to 50,000ha of irrigated land.

Motor sports complex Stage 1,2,3 1/8th Mile Drag Strip Speedway Track Offroad Racing and Other Recreational Infastructure

Charters Towers

North Queensland Motor Sports Inc

–

26.0

2025

50

28

L ocal motor sport clubs and residents have united to develop a multi-use motor sport precinct. Construction has already been completed on soft surface facilities, totalling $500K in works, with regular events being held, however the combined facility requires funding to develop hard surface tracks and shared amenities.

White Mountains National Park Eco-tourism

Charters Towers

Charters Towers Regional Council (In conjunction with the Gudjala People)

–

1.2

–

2

1

T his is a joint proponent project with the Gudjala People. Opportunity to develop an eco-tourism venture to include new tourism product and enhance the visitor experience.

Beach Communities Sewerage Scheme

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

60.0

–

118

14

U pgrade of sewerage treatment facilities at Halifax, Lucinda and Forrest Beaches. Stage 1 is the upgrade of the centralised sewerage treatment plant at Ingham for $30M., Stage 2 is to sewer the beach communities for $30M. Hinchinbrook Innovative Renewable Energy Precincts

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

3.0

–

6

1

A pplication has been submitted to the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development. Aiming to minimise current Council energy costs by using renewable resources.

North Queensland Bio-energy Project

Ingham

North Queensland Bio-energy Corporation Ltd (NQBE) & Elecnor

–

640.0

Jun 2021

450

250

2019

2

0

2020

1

0

S ugar, ethanol and renewable energy power generation facility. On target for commencement in June 2018.

Butler Bay Foreshore Revetment Wall

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

1.2

E xtending the Seawall at Butler Bay (to the East) to enable the 40 lot subdivision to proceed.

Demolition works associated with the Waste Water Treatment Plant Upgrade

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

0.5

D emolition works associated with the Waste Water Treatment Plant Upgrade including the identification and removal of any asbestos present.

051

SECTION SPONSOR

Investment Ready PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

–

2020

–

–

SECTOR

NORTH QUEENSLAND (Projects valued at greater than $5M) TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Improvements to Water and Sewerage System Infrastructure

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

A ddressing residual water and sewerage issues including repair/replacement and cleaning of town reservoirs, expansion of effluent irrigation areas, replacement of water reticulation pump houses, pumps and switchboards etc.

Palm Island Retail and Business Precinct – Stage 3

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

20.0

2021

39

45

2

1

S tage 3 includes a pupose built supermarket on the ground floor and commercial tenancies on the 1st floor.

Street Lighting and CCTV Cameras

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

0.8

2018

I nstallation of improved street lighting and CCTV cameras to the sports reserve and along the Coolgaree Bay Foreshore.

PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

172.0

–

338

57

SECTOR

SURROUNDING REGION (Significant Projects) Watershed Tungsten Mine – Carbine Tungsten Ltd

Mount Carbine

Vital Metals Ltd

–

T ungsten Mine at Mount Carbine. Watershed has an estimated 10 year life of mine with forecast total production of 24,900 tonnes of WO3. All mining leases, environmental authority and indigenous land use agreements in place.

Image by Megan MacKinnon

052

Seeking Funding MAJOR SPONSOR

Seeking Funding Townsville Enterprise continues to advocate for public funding into the projects and sectors that will deliver the greatest benefit and create the best prospect for the region to increase its contribution to national productivity.

Key state and national policy documents highlight the critical importance of Townsville and North Queensland as a driver of national economic growth and job creation. The signing of Australia’s first ever City Deal for Townsville is testament to the commitment of the three levels of Government to drive economic growth, unlock potential for the broader region and encourage business and industry development to help Townsville and North Queensland become: The economic gateway to Asia and Northern Australia A global leader in tropical and marine research and innovation A prosperous and highly-liveable city for residents and visitors.

A key focus for Townsville Enterprise is on innovation and STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Arts and Mathematics) projects for Townsville North Queensland. It is necessary for our region and Northern Australia to look to future technologies to provide opportunities for our youth. The future growth of the international economy will be dependent on innovative technologies, and to remain competitive and relevant in the global economy, North Queensland must invest into becoming innovative leaders of the state. This involves equipping future generations with the necessary skills to leverage technology in the future.

The development of Northern Australia – and associated funding arrangements, including the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund and the Clean Energy Finance Corporation – continue to be seen as the greatest opportunity to attract public investment into the Townsville North Queensland region. The Federal Government’s Northern Australia White Paper was accompanied by $1.2B in funding commitments.

Image by Megan MacKinnon

054

In response to the Northern Australia White Paper and Northern Australia Infrastructure Audit, Townsville Enterprise has led a consultative process to identify the highest priorities for economic infrastructure investment to stimulate the economic performance of the region, and in turn, contribution to the national economy. The region’s priorities have been developed through a robust and transparent framework based on direct and indirect economic and employment benefits to the region, the demand for and constraints to additional or expanded infrastructure, and other parameters.

TOWNSVILLE

The Northern Australia Infrastructure Audit, released in mid2015, reveals Northern Australia accounts for 45% of Australia’s landmass, 5.6% of Australia’s population and 11.7% of Australia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This demonstrates that Northern Australia performs well above expectation in terms of national productivity. The region’s GDP contribution is also increasing over of a period of time, which will result in Northern Australia eventually becoming a proportionally larger component of the national economy.

The Northern Australia Infrastructure Audit also identifies Townsville as the largest population centre in Northern Australia, with the Federal Government considering Townsville to not only remain the largest urban centre, but also grow at a rate faster than any other urban centre in Northern Australia. According to the Federal Government, there are three key growth areas in Queensland – the Burdekin (irrigated agriculture), the Galilee and Bowen Basins (coal) and the North West Minerals Province (base metals and other minerals) – all of which flow into the Townsville North Queensland regional economy.

The result is a clear prioritisation of infrastructure requirements representing a consensus position of local organisations, representatives and stakeholders. The region’s highest priorities are in the energy, water and transport sectors. These three sectors require both infrastructure investment and policy reform. The objectives of the Northern Australia development agenda are not achievable without efficient operations and provision of services in these sectors. The projects are specific to Townsville North Queensland, while the priority sectors are common across the majority of Northern Australia and in particular neighbouring regions to the North, South and West.

Investment in these priority sectors will facilitate industry growth and private sector investment across resources, energy and agriculture, as well as stimulate employment, urban development, retail and the associated social and tourism development. This is, however, all underpinned by the issue of population growth. A significantly increased rate of population growth is essential – government policies targeting higher rates of migration and population growth in the region will be required.

Seeking Funding: Overview of projects in the Townsville North Queensland Region SECTOR

NUMBER OF PROJECTS

INVESTMENT ($M)

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATIONAL JOBS**

Agriculture

1

$–

–

–

Community Infrastructure

1

$195.0

384

210

Education

1

$85.0

215

163

Industrial

1

$2.1

4

2

Research

1

$55.0

108

105

Sport and Recreation

4

$46.1

120

143

Tourism

6

$215.8

454

391

Utilities Infrastructure

2

$22.7

45

5

17

$621.7

1,330

1,019

Grand Total

* Direct Construction Employment figures are provided by the project proponent or have been calculated using the latest REMPLAN industry data tables. These employment numbers assume the project construction and spend is completed in one year. These numbers are only an estimate. ** Direct Operational Employment figures are provided by the project proponent or have been calculated using the latest REMPLAN industry data tables. The main industry supported by the project has been selected as the guide employment table for each individual project operational employment numbers. These numbers are only an estimate.

055

Seeking Funding This report includes: 1) Projects valued at $5M or greater in Townsville; 2) Projects greater than $1M in the Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook and Palm Island (‘Townsville North Queensland Region’); and 3) Projects of significance/relevance from elsewhere in Queensland (‘Surrounding Region’).

PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

5.8

–

41

182

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Museum of Underwater Art

Offshore Townsville

MOUA Committee

–

T he Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) provides an opportunity to further extend the region’s existing educational reef and tourism offerings to create a seamless learning journey between the land and ocean. To create a global art attraction for Townsville North Queensland that provides a point of differentiation, telling stories of the land, people and the environment. Proposed sites are located off Townsville, Palm Island, Magnetic Island and on the Great Barrier Reef. Private sector has provided $700K in funding, State Government has committed $2M and further funding is being sought.

Australian Tropical Biosecurity Network

Douglas

James Cook University (JCU)

–

55.0

–

108

105

78

120

C ontemporary PC 2 and PC 3 research testing laboratory to be co-located at JCU in the veterinary precinct.

DriveIt – Townsville Driver Education and Motor Sports Precinct

Calcium

DriveIt NQ Limited (NFP entity)

–

25.0

–

C onstruction of a motorsport precinct on southern outskirts of Townsville. The project secured $5M from the Federal Government in September 2017. An $18.5M commitment is still required.

Riverway Rowing Club – Extension of Club-house Facility

Rasmussen

Riverway Rowing Club

–

2.1

–

4

2

A n extension of ground floor area to enable the storage of passive watersports equipment including rowing boats, kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddle boards; to include a first floor club house facility incorporating the ability to provide café style meals to club members and members of the public. Project requiring matched public to private funding.

Stuart Transfer Station

Stuart

Townsville City Council

–

12.0

2018

24

3

215

163

P roject will construct up-to-date waste facility allowing safe collection of public waste prior to transfer to landfill.

Technology & Innovation Centre (New Engineering Centre)

Douglas

James Cook University

–

85.0

2020

T he engineering building will be a contemporary complex designed to meet the future need of the College of Science, Technology and Engineering. It will replace existing buildings at the end of life and no longer fit for purpose.

Townsville Airport Upgrade

Garbutt

Queensland Airports Ltd

–

40.0

2018

79

30

E xpansion of terminal to cater for forecasted growth. Plans include additional check-in kiosks, security screening, seating and retail facilities as well as new airline lounges. Delays in the construction due to continuing negotiations with airline partners.

Townsville Concert Hall

Townsville

Townsville City Council

–

36.0

–

71

39

256

140

384

210

A concert hall with 800–1,000 seats, raked floor, shoe-box design with a stage (no proscenium arch or carpets).

Townsville Entertainment and Exhibition Centre

South Townsville

Townsville City Council, Townsville Enterprise Limited

–

130.0

–

6 ,000 seat entertainment centre that will be incorporated with the Townsville Stadium currently under construction.

Waterfront Promenade Project

Townsville CBD

Townsville City Council

–

195.0

–

A pproximately 35km network of pathways and enabling infrastructure, including 2.8km of high quality waterfront pathways, to connect the dining, entertainment, cultural and retail precincts of the CBD via the Ross Creek waterfront.

056

Seeking Funding PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

2.1

–

4

2

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND (Projects valued at greater than $1M) Ayr Industrial Estate

Burdekin

Burdekin Shire Council

–

I nstallation of trunk infrastructure and preparation of land to expand the existing Ayr Industrial Estate.

Expansion of Northern Irrigation Area – Majors Creek

Burdekin

Burdekin Shire Council

–

–

–

–

–

Burdekin Shire Council

–

10.0

–

20

11

–

10.7

–

21

3

–

–

E xpansion of northern crop irrigatition area.

Replacement of Home Hill Olympic Standard Swimming Pool

Home Hill

U pgrade outdated facilities at Home Hill town pool.

Sutcliffe Estate Reticulated Sewer System

Burdekin

Burdekin Shire Council

I nstallation of pressure sewage system and rising main to service the Sutcliffe Estate, located between Ayr and Alva.

Broadwater/Wallaman Falls Trail Infrastructure

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

–

–

P lan to investigate the viability of private sector investment into facilities to support commercial walking track development, including low-impact accommodation and enhanced facilities for day visitors.

Horse Sport Arena

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

9.0

–

18

10

–

8

1

F unding received for the project. Council is currently completing the preconstruction milestones.

Over 55s Lifestyle Village & RV Tourist Park

Forrest Beach

Smith Family

–

4.0

A ccommodation, RV parking in village setup at beautiful Forrest Beach. Concept development design completed and land area available is 10Ha.

PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

COMPLETION DATE

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

282.0

2019

555

68

SECTOR

SURROUNDING REGION (Significant Projects) Kidston Hydro Pumped Storage Project – 330 MW

Kidston

Genex Power

Genex Power

L arge-scale pumped storage hydro project using existing mining voids. Integrated with 270MW Solar Project. Pumping to occur overnight and during the day (day time using solar energy). Generation to occur morning and evening peak periods. Genex Pty Ltd received approval from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility to continue to the full due diligence phase.

Image by Megan MacKinnon

057

A clear vision for our city Townsville’s economy has been steadily rebounding over the past year, creating opportunities for growth, development and investment. Through the new Townsville2020 masterplan and Waterfront Priority Development Area (PDA), Townsville now has an established framework that will create jobs, stimulate economic growth in the Townsville region, and provide an overarching vision for potential developers.

Applications are already underway for these projects with locally based Counterpoint Architecture and Milford Planning awarded joint consultant for the Castle Hill Masterplan, while Place Design and STP Engineering are the successful consultants for the Entry Statements projects.

Townsville2020

Pure Projects has been appointed City Placemaker and Masterplanner to help ensure that projects and developments from both the private and public sectors align with the 2020 vision.

Townsville2020, launched by Townsville City Council in December 2017, is a masterplan and clear vision for our city that will give the private sector confidence to invest.

Townsville2020 will create world-class experiences here in Townsville and has been structured to encourage local businesses to be involved in projects.

Initial projects outlined in the 2020 masterplan include plans for a Flinders Lane development, the highly anticipated Stadium Precinct, a Castle Hill Masterplan, Riverway Waterpark Scoping Study and Entry Statements for the city.

All projects will be broken into individual work packages to ensure local companies of all sizes are able to bid for work.

Image by Matthew Gianoulis

058

Waterfront Priority Development Area The Waterfront PDA is a plan implemented by Townsville City Council and Queensland State Government in partnership with the Townsville Port in 2015 to streamline developments and encourage investments in new projects.

The PDA is designed to attract and facilitate new development along Ross Creek which has helped enable the development of the Stadium precinct.

To be eligible for financial concessions under the Townsville Jobs and Investment Packages, projects are required to meet the following use types: Multiple Dwellings

Image by Matthew Gianoulis

Shopping Centre Shop Food and Drink Outlet Short-Term Accommodation Hotel

Eligibility will also extend to projects that upgrade or refurbish existing infrastructure within the Waterfront PDA. Moving Forward Townsville2020 and the Waterfront PDA offer the private sector opportunities for development in line with the vision outlined by Townsville City Council.

Townsville has significant opportunity for businesses to invest in our city with major city-shaping projects such as the North Queensland Stadium currently under construction.

The time to invest in our city is now.

Image by John De Rooy

Image by Matthew Gianoulis

059

View from Castle Hill, Townsville by Megan MacKinnon

Project Pipeline MAJOR SPONSOR

061

Project Pipeline This report aims to profile Townsville North Queensland’s long-term development outlook. Developments are across three sections to clarify their stages of development: Short Term Pipeline: Projects that are confirmed and shovel-ready, awaiting a start date. Most of these projects are planned to commence in the next 12 months.

Medium Term Pipeline: Projects that are fully defined with approvals but are still in the early stages of the development process. A confirmed start date is yet to be declared, but these projects have a high likelihood of occurring within five years.

Potential Pipeline: Projects that are still in the conceptual phase. While these projects are not yet fully documented or approved, they articulate a vision and provide direction on the future of the region.

The two industry sectors that are most prevalent throughout the Project Pipeline are residential housing and logistics, accounting for more than half of the total potential project value. The residential industry sector has a large number of proposed projects; however, it is important to note that many of these housing estates develop over extended timeframes as dictated by demand.

Townsville North Queensland’s major advantages in having a diversified industry base, coupled with ever improving infrastructure, will ensure the region’s viability in the future.

In addition to showcasing key upcoming developments, this report is designed to highlight the future direction of Townsville North Queensland over coming decades. This will inform the city’s development and assist with business decisions and opportunities.

NUMBER OF PIPELINE PROJECTS BY AREA IN TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

8

9

BURDEKIN

CHARTERS TOWERS

49

13

14

HINCHINBROOK

PALM ISLAND

TOWNSVILLE

Image by Megan MacKinnon

062

Project Pipeline: Overview of projects in the Townsville North Queensland Region

SECTOR

NUMBER OF PROJECTS

INVESTMENT ($M)

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATIONAL JOBS**

Accommodation

1

$21.0

41

60

Aged Care

2

$21.0

99

62

Agriculture

2

$-

-

-

Commercial

3

$493.5

971

1,105

Community Infrastructure

8

$9.3

32

6

Defence

3

$313.9

617

303

Education

7

$467.5

133

360

Environmental

1

$190.0

374

46

Industrial

3

$1,612.0

3,171

1,009

Logistics

22

$4,566.9

9,133

6,165

Mixed Use

2

$1,350.0

2,655

2,469

Renewable Energy

4

$140.0

525

34

Research

1

$100.0

197

192

Residential

6

$615.0

1,201

76

Resources

1

$280.0

827

100

Retail

5

$129.0

254

282

Sport and Recreation

2

$15.0

30

16

Tourism

8

$18.5

36

21

Utilities Infrastructure

8

$81.6

186

20

Information, Communication and Techology (ICT)

4

$94.5

186

85

93

$10,518.7

20,668

12,411

Grand Total

* Direct Construction Employment figures are provided by the project proponent or have been calculated using the latest REMPLAN industry data tables. These employment numbers assume the project construction and spend is completed in one year. These numbers are only an estimate. ** Direct Operational Employment figures are provided by the project proponent or have been calculated using the latest REMPLAN industry data tables. The main industry supported by the project has been selected as the guide employment table for each individual project operational employment numbers. These numbers are only an estimate.

Image by Megan MacKinnon

063

Project Pipeline This report includes: 1) Projects valued at $5M or greater in Townsville; 2) Projects greater than $1M in the Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook and Palm Island (‘Townsville North Queensland Region’); and 3) Projects of significance/relevance from elsewhere in Queensland (‘Surrounding Region’).

PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

STATUS

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

20.0

Medium Term

97

60

1,600.0

Medium Term

3,147

1,000

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Aged Care Facility

Douglas

James Cook University

–

A ged care facility with 140 bed high-care with training links to James Cook University.

Battery Manufacturing Plant

Townsville CBD

The Boston Energy and Innovation (BEI) Consortium

–

T ownsville City Council is investigating the financial viability of building a 15GWh battery manufacturing plant. The Council has offered the Consortium a land package in exchange for equity in the project.

Bluewater Airport – Training and Freight

Bluewater

Bluewater Airport

–

300.0

Potential Pipeline

1,000

3,000

P lans to expand operations at the airstrip to increase freight and training opportunities. Goals to increase facilities to allow for up to 400 students in the training facilities. Cross runway under construction seeking $100M. Breakwater Marina Expansion

North Ward

Breakwater Pacific

–

6.0

Medium Term

12

6

E xtension of marina (115 berths) and entry channel dredging to allow larger yachts (completed 2015). Over-water restaurant and bar, dedicated marina administration, function and events room. Additional commercial and retail space.

Bwgaman Aboriginal Land Development

Cranbrook

Bwgaman Aboriginal Land Trust / Dreamtime Training

Dreamtime Operations

400.0

Potential Pipeline

500 + 150 Aboriginal Apprentices

230

N ational Indigenous museum and cultural centre with small conference facilities. 100 house blocks, 250+ apartments and 150 student accommodation. Complex to include restaurant, motel, markets, training academy, parkland and gardens.

Castlepoint Apartments Stage 2

Belgian Gardens

Blue Sky Alternative Investments

GPH Projects

25.0

Short Term

40

1

43.0

Short Term

85

10

9 8 unit complex on Bundock Street, second and final stage consists of 49 units.

CBD Utility Upgrade

Townsville

Townsville City Council

–

T he three year project will upgrade water storage and install over 20km of underground water and sewerage pipework in the CBD, replacing some mains up to 60 years old, to support the revitalisation of the inner city.

Central CQU II

Townsville

Honeycombes Property Group

–

12.5

Medium Term

25

24

–

–

Medium Term

–

–

P urpose built education facility with whole of building tenant Cluden Transport and Warehouse Precinct

Cluden

AIS Investments

N ew industrial estate for transport services with lots from 5,788m2 up to 20ha. Located at the southern approach to town. Sale and lease options available with highway fronting blocks and road network designed to suit heavy vehicles. First lots have been sold for new Puma Service Station and Truck Stop.

Cornerstone Building

Douglas

James Cook University

–

35.0

Potential Pipeline

126

55

A mixed use accommodation building containing serviced apartments, medi-hotel, short stay accommodation, conference facilities, a bar and a restaurant. To be built in association with the Ideas Market.

Dalrymple Road Widening

Kirwan

Townsville City Council

–

11.0

Medium Term

22

8

–

Medium Term

–

–

–

Medium Term

–

–

W idening from two to four lanes between Thuringowa Drive and Kern Brothers Drive intersections.

Data Centre for North Queensland

Douglas

James Cook University

–

N ew Data Centre, possibly in partnership with other institutions or commercial partners DHA – Aitkenvale Project

Aitkenvale

Defence Housing Australia

–

M edium density residential project across a 6.24ha site. Currently in early planning phase.

064

Project Pipeline PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

STATUS

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

1,200.0

Medium Term

2,360

2,133

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Discovery Rise Residence

Douglas

James Cook University

–

M ulti-stage community precinct at James Cook University's Douglas campus. Plans to include a mix of residential units, serviced apartments, accommodation, and commercial space for services such as private health, hospitality and knowledge based industries.

DoubleTree Hotel

Townsville CBD

Hilton Hotels and Focus Pacific Pty Ltd

0

21.0

Medium Term

41

60

A 175-bed, 4.5 star hotel to be built adjacent to the North Queensland Stadium site. Planning approvals are expected to be completed by September 2018. There are expected to be 50 car parks on site.

Elizabeth Street Unit Complex

Aitkenvale

Parkside Developments

–

20.0

Medium Term

39

3

Mount Stuart Training Area

Federal Government

–

230.9

Short Term

454

223

5 6 unit complex.

Explosive Ordnance Logistics Reform Program (EOLRP) – Works Package 1

I ncreased EO storage, handling and operational facilities. Note: investment value is the nation wide project investment (12 sites).

Fairfield Waters Commercial and Unit Complex Stage 2

Idalia

Idalia Investments

Gedoun Constructions Pty Ltd

–

Medium Term

–

–

–

13.5

Medium Term

27

30

15.0

Short Term

30

27

C ommercial space complex with residential units above.

Finsbury Place Office

Townsville

Honeycombes Property Group

Townsville

Honeycombes Property Group

C ommercial Office Building Fletcher Square

–

T he development proposed is a mixure of retail and lifestyle/recreational venues.

Garland Road / Bohlevale School Road / Railway Intersection Upgrade

Bohle

Townsville City Council

–

8.4

Short Term

17

6

Bohle

Parkside Developments

–

10.0

Short Term

20

22

–

480.0

Short Term

944

1,075

I ntersection upgrade.

Greater Ascot Town Centre Stage 1

S tage 1 of town centre for the Greater Ascot residential development.

Harbour City Development

South Townsville

Port of Townsville Ltd

D evelopment of Ross Creek waterfront land, currently owned by the Port of Townsville, into a commercial, residential and community space. Master plan is currently being developed.

Housing Development at Mount Louisa

Townsville

Yumba-Meta Housing Assoc Ltd

Hansen Construction

–

Medium Term

–

–

NQ

T ownsville City Council has approved 40 lots on 50 acres located at Thorne Street, Mount Louisa for a housing development which include a mixed portfolio of housing comprising of housing for Indigenous Home Ownership, housing for NDIS participants and housing sold in the open market.

Ideas Market – Central Plaza

Douglas

James Cook University

–

5.0

Potential Pipeline

15

1

A new village centre at the intersection between the hospital and the university, being a commercial and community space that will encourage private investment and confidence in the long term viability of Townsville's Knowledge Precinct.

Ingham Road 4-lane Upgrade (Mather St to Bruce Highway)

Bohle

Townsville City Council

–

40.0

Short Term

79

30

Bushland Beach

Townsville City Council

–

14.0

Medium Term

28

10

0.0

Short Term

250

3-5

W idening from two to four lanes.

Lionel Turner Drive Upgrade

S taged construction of two lanes from Mount Low Parkway to Northshore Boulevard.

Majors Creek Solar Project

Majors Creek

Edify Energy

Edify Energy

A renewable energy facility spread over 540ha generating up to 400MW of electricity. Construction could begin mid 2018.

065

Project Pipeline PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

STATUS

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

40.0

Short Term

79

90

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Manolis Centre – Rasmussen – Stages 1/2/3

Rasmussen

Geon Property

–

T he Manolis Centre redevelopment is a reconfiguration, upgrade and expansion of the existing retail, convenience, fast-food and service station precinct. The staged project will deliver two new drive-thru operators; new 4,000m2 supermarket tenancy; 1,000m2 of speciality NLA and upgrade of the car parking/surrounding areas.

Marine & Aquaculture Research Facilities Unit

Townsville CBD

James Cook University

–

100.0

Medium Term

197

192

W orld class marine and aquaculture research complex. Proposal is to relocate existing and dated research facilities to the CBD/Waterfront in an alliance with GBRMPA and AIMS. North Shore Homemaker Centre

North Shore

Stockland Development Pty Ltd

–

14.0

Medium Term

28

31

–

–

B ulky goods retail centre. 15,000m2 waiting for council approval and will then go ahead subject to tenant interest.

NRL Cowboys House

Townsville

Townsville City Council

Paynter Dixon

–

Short Term

W ill house up to 50 Aboriginal & Torres Strait Island students from remote areas while attending High School. Single and double shared rooms, junior and senior learning centre, basketball court and covered walkways. Centre will provide life changing opportunites for some of the most disadvantaged young people in the country.

Port of Townsville Berth 10X

South Townsville

Port of Townsville Ltd

Port of Townsville

300.0

Medium Term

590

223

C onstruction of two new berths to support growing general cargo, Defence and cruise activities. Construction timing subject to commercial negotiations.

Port of Townsville Berth 12

South Townsville

Port of Townsville Ltd

–

150.0

Medium Term

295

111

C onstruction of a new berth to support the export of bulk mineral products mined in the North West Minerals Province. Construction timing subject to commercial negotiations.

RAAF Base Townsville Refresh

RAAF Base Townsville, Garbutt

Federal Government

–

60.0

Medium Term

118

58

–

–

Medium Term

–

–

U pgrade and refurbishment of existing facilities and infrastructure.

Radical Bay Development

Magnetic Island

Graham Juniper

O pportunity for development of beachfront land, the former site of the Radical Bay Resort. Previously earmarked for resort development, however council and community backlash has influenced the developer to consider a smaller scale development.

Redevelopment of the Townsville North Rail Yards

Townsville CBD

Townsville City Council

–

150.0

Short Term

295

336

O pportunity to redevelop historic former rail yards site into a mixed-use CBD hub. Site is currently owned by Townsville City Council. Heritage site assessment is underway.

Riverstone

Rasmussen

Payce Consolidated

–

560.0

Potential Pipeline

1,102

71

Burdell

Stateland

–

12.0

Medium Term

24

9

1 ,400 lot residential estate.

Shaw Business Park

2 5ha area for 47 lots light and service industry park in Townsville's Major Growth Corridor – together with approval to develop 23,200m2 of showrooms.

Southern Suburbs Sewerage Main

Annandale/ Oonoonba

Townsville City Council

–

25.0

Medium Term

75

6

1 1.15km rising main pipeline through the suburbs of Annandale and Idalia before crossing the Townsville State Development Area to the Cleveland Bay Sewerage Treatment Plant. It will provide new capacity for the key Defence and economic precincts of Lavarack Barracks, the Townsville Hospital and James Cook University.

St Clare's Burdell Stage 4 – From Prep to Grade 12 College

Burdell

Queensland Education Department

–

–

Short Term

–

–

–

50.0

Medium Term

98

112

827

100

E xpansion of the school to allow in-take beyond Grade 6.

Stockland Aitkenvale Shopping Centre Expansion

Aitkenvale

Stockland Development Pty Ltd

E xpansion to include a new restaurant, catering shop, cinema, gymnasium, medical centre and car park.

Sun Metals – Stage 2 (over next 5 years)

Stuart

Sun Metals

E xpansion of zinc refinery to increase 25% of zinc production.

066

–

280.0

Medium Term

Project Pipeline PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

STATUS

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

310.0

Short Term

610

230

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Townsville Eastern Access Rail Corridor (TEARC)

South Townsville

Department of Transport and Main Roads / Queensland Rail

–

A new rail line to improve the rail access into the Port of Townsville to increase efficiency and remove train interaction in residential areas. Plan to increase capacity to meet growing cargo demand and allow for the increase in the length of trains, minimising the rail bottlenecks during peak times. Business Case underway by Building Queensland ($6M). $150M funding committed by the Federal Government in 2016.

Townsville Field Training Area Mid-term Refresh

Townsville Field Training Area

Federal Government

–

23.0

Medium Term

45

22

193.0

Short Term

120

143

U pgrade and refurbishment of existing facilities and infrastructure.

Townsville Port Expansion – Stage 1 (channel widening)

South Townsville

Port of Townsville Ltd

–

P EP Stage 1A: Widening the channels to enable larger container, fuel, car, general cargo and cruise vessels at the Port of Townsville and associated reclamation.

Project length is six years. State Government approved the EIS and has committed $75M towards the project. Additional EIS and finalisation of funding is required, pending Federal Government approval.

Townsville Port Expansion – Stage 1B (Berth 12)

South Townsville

Port of Townsville Ltd

–

320.0

Medium Term

629

237

500.0

Medium Term

984

371

Medium Term

984

371

P EP Stage 1B: Construction of Berth 12 and associated dredging and reclamation.

Townsville Port Expansion – Stage 2

South Townsville

Port of Townsville Ltd

–

P EP Stage 2: Construction of Berths 13, 14 & 15 and associated dredging and reclamation works.

Townsville Port Expansion – Stage 3

South Townsville

Port of Townsville Ltd

–

500.0

P EP Stage 3: Construction of Berths 16 & 17 and associated dredging and reclamation works, as well as channel deepening works.

University Linked High School

Townsville CBD

James Cook University, Queensland Government

–

51.0

Potential Pipeline

100

98

P roposal to repurpose or rebuild on Western Campus site for a University Linked High School. Feasibility study completed in 2013 being re-examined. Current consideration in context of State Government's Global Schools Initiative.

250MW Concentrated Solar Thermal Project for North Queensland

Townsville North Queensland Region

CWP Renewables

–

1,300.0

Medium Term

2,000

50

C oncentrated Solar Thermal project that can deliver dispatchable, emissions-free power to North Queensland. Construction to begin in 2019, with some approvals still needed.

PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

INVESTMENT ($M)

STATUS

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

–

–

Medium Term

–

–

–

515.0

Medium Term

1,013

382

BUILDER

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND (Projects valued at greater than $1M) Ayr Aerodrome Master Plan

Burdekin

Burdekin Shire Council

D evelopment of a 20 year plan for the aerodrome.

Bruce Highway – Haughton River Floodplain Upgrade including Haughton Bridge Upgrade

Burdekin

Australian Government & Qld Transport Department

A 14km section of the Bruce Highway about 50km south of Townsville and 30km north of Ayr will be upgraded, including replacement of the narrow Haughton River Bridge. Construction is expected to commence mid 2018 and is scheduled for completion mid 2021, weather permitting.

Burdekin Falls Dam – Saddle Dam & Monolith Improvement Project

Burdekin

Department Energy & Water Supply, Sunwater

Sunwater

190.0

Short Term

374

46

I mprovement works to the saddle dam & monoliths so the dam continues to meet current best practice standards, improve stability in the monoliths to enhance performance in extreme weather such as high rainfall.

067

Project Pipeline PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

STATUS

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

1,400.0

Medium Term

2,754

1,038

SECTOR

NORTH QUEENSLAND (Projects valued at greater than $5M) TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Burdekin River Second Crossing

Burdekin

Queensland Government

–

P rovision of a second road crossing for the Bruce Highway over the Burdekin River to expand on heavy vehicle and wide-load access of the current two-lane bridge.

Koberinga Solar Farm

Fredericksfield

ESCO Pacific

ESCO Pacific

100.0

Potential Pipeline

197

24

T he $100M project will comprise approximately 160,000 solar panels generating enough electricity to power the equivalent of 25,000 homes with 55MW capacity.

Minor raising of Burdekin Falls Dam including Hydroelectricity (inclusive of water for Bowen)

Burdekin

Federal Government & Queensland Government

–

–

Medium Term

–

–

E xpansion of the Burdekin Dam to service agriculture diversification and expansion in the Burdekin and Whitsunday Shires and the longer term needs of Townsville and the Galilee Basin. Currently in feasibility stages, report due April 2018.

Warren's Gully System Capacity Upgrade

Burdekin

Lower Burdekin Water

–

9.2

Medium Term

18

2

Medium Term

20

12

D istribution infrastructure to provide water delivery to the southern end of the Burdekin Shire.

Wongaloo Regional Park

Burdekin

Wetland Grassland Foundation

–

10.0

D evelopment of an eco-tourism park between Townsville and Ayr. Visitor centre and walking trails and bus tours of area. Sight viewing areas with platforms to enable full landscape views. Future development for glamping. In consultation with potential cruise ship day visits via Burdekin Shire as well as eventual Chinese day tours.

Will require approval for rail crossing from QR – they are estimating $1.2M. Suggest next stage internally at $5M. Anticipating further enlargement of footprint to embrace whole of freshwater swamp system allowing greater flexibility for tourism experiences.

Burdekin Irrigation Scheme

Charters Towers

Charters Towers Regional Council

–

–

Medium Term

–

–

–

–

Medium Term

–

–

I rrigated cropping system along the Burdekin River.

Burdekin River Agricultural Precinct

Charters Towers

Charters Towers Regional Council (In conjunction with adjacent landowners)

D evelopment of major new irrigated cropping areas for additional agricultural production. This is being developed in conjunction with adjacent landowners.

CTED – Intelligent Infrastructure Asset – Water Treatment Plant

Charters Towers

Charters Towers Regional Council

–

4.5

Medium Term

9

1

C onstructing solar PV installation, energy battery storage and smart grid to potentially take Water Treatment Plant off the grid. Seeking an external proponent.

CTED – Solar Utility

Charters Towers

Charters Towers Regional Council

–

40.0

Medium Term

79

10

S olar utility on site near Charters Towers substation. Anticipated capacity range: 15-50MW. Power generation for new industrial / commercial projects such as CTED20. Seeking an external proponent.

CTED20 – Digital Enterprise Zone

Charters Towers

Charters Towers Regional Council

–

30.0

Medium Term

59

28

S taged construction of digital economy hubs, such as digital education, additive manufacturing, remotely controlled mining etc. Seeking an external proponent.

CTED20 - Enterprise Data Centre

Charters Towers

Charters Towers Regional Council

–

60.0

Medium Term

118

56

C onstructing a dedicated regional, solar powered data centre for Government and private business users. Seeking an external proponent.

Mosman Creek Recreation Corridor (all abilities playground, water playground and skate park redevelopment)

Charters Towers

Charters Towers Regional Council

–

15.0

Medium Term

30

16

S taged development of walking tracks and recreational facilities in the Mosman Creek Corridor as per the Master Plan. An all abilities playground and water playground (to be located at the Charters Towers pool complex), redevelopment of the skate park is also proposed for the recreation precinct.

Pentland Bioenergy Project

Pentland

Renewable Developments Australia

–

–

Short Term

–

–

T he Project involves the development of a fully integrated sugarcane farming, processing and ethanol distillation facility. Traditionally, ethanol processing facilities have relied on supply of sugarcane from third party producers. Supply has therefore been subject to competition from sugar mills and cost variations from growers seeking to maximise on-farm margins.

068

Project Pipeline PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

STATUS

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

–

Short Term

–

–

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE NORTH (Projects valued at greater than $5M) (ProjectsQUEENSLAND valued at greater than $5M) Towers Hill Master Plan

Charters Towers

Charters Towers Regional Council

–

F ully costed Master Plan with recommended development of (but not limited to) current preserved assets reflecting the strong military and mining themes while incorporating other activities (eg sporting, mountain bike tracks, karting tracks, hiking and running events etc) as well as geological and other natural assets of interest at national and international levels with potential for private tour operator investment/ventures.

Aerodrome

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

0.0

Medium Term

0

0

S ize and utility allows for existing strip to be utilised for commercial and general aviation purposes. Restrictions to use of strip apply during floods. Development to flood proof areas of the strip, taxi way and future hanger area is required. Future defined hanger area will allow for construction of purpose built operational centre catering for undercover resupply operations and commercial agricultural or seafood product storage and handling facilities.

Agricultural Diversification

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

0.0

Medium Term

0

0

D ue to the cyclical nature of world sugar pricing, alternative cropping industries must be established with a view to breaking sugar cane monoculture and introducing complimentary cropping to counter yield decline through soil improvement. Grant funding is being sought to facilitate agronomy services and establishment of ventilated silo type storage facilities to assist development of alternative industries.

Bridge Development

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

0.0

Medium Term

0

0

U pgrade of Hinchinbrook road network to improve efficiency of sugar cane agriculture logistics. The road networks comprises 33 bridges and major culvert link slab bridges valued at more that $15.7M replacement value. It has been identified that several bridges are in need of attention over the short-term future. Council's 10 year financial forecast budget now reflects a plan to set aside approx. $1.1M per year and carry out preventative capital works on 18 bridge assets.

Creating Deep Water Access

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

0.0

Medium Term

0

0

S iltation of coastal areas has occurred over a number of years due to sand drift which restricts boating access from ramps to half/full-tide periods only. There are tourism opportunities due to our close proximity to Hinchinbrook, the Palm Island Group and the Great Barrier Reef.

Development of Investment Attraction at Lucinda and Forrest Beach

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

0.0

Medium Term

0

0

C ouncil has developed a conceptual development strategy for Forrest Beach CBD area. Lucinda has also been identified as a vital place for development.

Flood mitigation of Palm Creek – Retention Basin

Ingham

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

–

Medium Term

–

–

R etention basin for the flooding of Palm Creek during heavy rain, in order to reduce risk of flooding between north and south suburbs of Ingham. Currently undertaking feasibility study.

Herbert River Treatment Plant

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

4.4

Medium Term

9

1

A pplication for Building Our Regions funding is being submitted at the end of April. Ensuring that our current water supply is readily available year round water source.

Herbert River Weir

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

0.0

Medium Term

0

0

Q 2100 predictions suggest tidal rises equalling 0.8metres by 2100. Rises of this nature will compromise town water supply operations given potential for salt water intrusion at Fairford Road water intakes. Advancement of salt water to that extent can be stopped by a weir. Supplementary uses of a weir include possible tourism recreation in the form of skiing and boating (subject to better crocodile management due to existing natural falls away from river supporting unassisted water movement opportunities.

Ingham CBD Master Plan – Stage 2 – Lannercost St Plaza Redevelopment – Recreation & Tourism Area

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

0.7

Short Term

10

1

S tage 2 – Revitalisation of Ingham CBD in collaboration with James Cook University. Redevelopment of the main street in Ingham’s CBD will promote business growth across the region while enhancing lifestyle benefits for residents and a better experience for visitors.

Mountain Bike/Hiking Recreational Complex

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

0.0

Medium Term

0

0

I n conjunction with National Parks and Wildlife Services, investigations are being undertaken towards utilisation of National Park and forestry areas within Hinchinbrook for establishment of nature based mountain bike/hiking trails and precincts. Funding has been sought for master planning to combine the various districts precincts and to produce a refidex of trails catering for all levels of participation.

Pelorus Island Potential Development

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

0.0

Medium Term

0

0

C ouncil is presently finalising trustee management plans with State Government for the purposes of allowing commercial tourism opportunities. Anticipated activities include day tripping for snorkelling/swimming/mountain bush walking or camping opportunities. Minimum infrastructure proposed: National Park Type toilet facilities and helicopter landing pad which will complement commercial boat activity out of Lucinda Port which is only 13 miles away.

069

Project Pipeline PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

STATUS

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

–

Potential Pipeline

–

–

Medium Term

0

0

SECTOR

NORTH QUEENSLAND (Projects valued at greater than $5M) TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) Road Link from Wallaman Falls to Mt Fox and Paluma

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

C reation of a road link from Wallaman Falls to Mt Fox and on to Paluma for the drive tourism market.

Tertiary Education Opportunities

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook Shire Council

–

0.0

L everage NBN and the secondary schooling streams to make themselves a rural and remote education hub utilising the facilities at TYTO. Council are currently in discussions with Central Queensland University and James Cook University to progress this.

Aerodrome Terminal Upgrade

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

5.0

Potential Pipeline

10

4

U pgrade of existing aerodrome terminal (design and construction) to improve transport efficiences, safety and community and visitor experiences.

Aged Care Facility Upgrade

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

1.0

Potential Pipeline

2

2

–

1.5

Potential Pipeline

3

2

Potential Pipeline

–

–

Potential Pipeline

8

9

U pgrade of administration buildings at the Palm Island aged care facility.

Community Footpath Upgrades

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

I mprovements to existing and installation of new footpaths at high traffic locations in the community.

Cyclone Shelter

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

–

D esign and construction of a cyclone shelter to improve community disaster preparedness.

Day Care Centre

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

4.0

D esign and construction of a new Day Care Centre to cater for residents in newly established residential areas.

House Developments – Various Lots

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

10.0

Medium Term

20

1

0.5

Potential Pipeline

1

0

3

2

V arious house development – Various size grouping of houses.

Multi-purpose Trail Network

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

I mprovements to existing and installation of new multi-purpose trails for community and visitor experiences.

Parks and Gardens Upgrades

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

1.5

Potential Pipeline

I mprovement to existing parks and gardens, installation of play equipment at various community locations.

Road Upgrades

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

–

Potential Pipeline

–

–

–

0.5

Potential Pipeline

1

0

M t Bentley, Upper Mt Bentley and Lower Bamboo Road upgrades.

Upgrade of Barge Terminal

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

I mprovements to the existing barge terminal in accordance with the jetty precinct master plan to improve transport efficiencies.

Upgrade of Butler Bay Road

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

–

Potential Pipeline

–

–

0.1

Medium Term

0

0

I mprovements to Butler Bay Road to improve pedestrian and vehicle safety.

Water Security (Bore Holes, etc)

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

F easibility studies are being completed into water security options to address the small water supply available to the 5000 residents.

070

Project Pipeline PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

STATUS

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

0.5

Potential Pipeline

1

1

SECTOR

TOWNSVILLE NORTH (Projects valued at greater than $5M) (ProjectsQUEENSLAND valued at greater than $5M) Wayfinding and Interpretive Signage

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

I nstallation of way finding and interpretive information to identify key points of interest for community and visitors.

WWII US Navy Base Preservation

Palm Island

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council

–

2.0

Potential Pipeline

4

2

INVESTMENT ($M)

STATUS

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

6,800.0

Medium Term

2,450

2,200

80

58

P reservation and presentation of a WWII Navy Base site at Wallaby Point.

PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

SECTOR

SURROUNDING REGION (Significant Projects) Alpha Coal Project

Alpha, Barcaldine Region

Hancock Coal Pty Ltd

–

3 2Mtpa open-cut coal mine in the Galilee Basin, 38km north-west of Alpha. Currently delayed by legal challenges.

Cairns Innovation Centre

Cairns

James Cook University

–

30.0

Available

A mixed use building comprising an innovation centre and commercial tenancies. The Innovation Centre will house elements of the the new Degree Course Bachelor of Electronic systems and the Internet of Things.

Cairns Southern Access Corridor Stage 3

Edmonton to Gordonvale

Federal Government

–

135.0

Medium Term

266

100

B ruce Highway upgrade, with widening to six lanes planned between Kate Street and Aumuller Street. Construction to begin 2020.

Tropical Condition Sports Complex

Cairns

James Cook University

–

30.0

Potential Pipeline

59

28

P roposal for the development of a tropical conditioning sports complex for elite athletes, education and research.

Three Rivers Irrigation Project

Glenore (Lot 1 LA2) 90km south of Normanton

Stanbroke Pty Ltd

–

200.0

Medium Term

100

75

294.0

Short Term

300

280

C ropping and irrigation of up to 15,000 ha of cotton with associated infrastructure.

Cloncurry Copper Project

Cloncurry

Sichuan Railway Investment Group, Altona Mining Limited

–

D evelopment of Little Eva, a large-scale copper-gold mine with an expected 11 year initial life of mine. Will produce 39,000 tonnes of copper and 17,000 ounces of gold per annum.

Cloncurry Meat Processing Facility

Cloncurry

Cloncurry Shire Council

–

80.0

Medium Term

157

25

A battoir located at Cloncurry. Queensland Government study found Cloncurry to be the best Western Queensland location for a meat processing facility.

North West Strategic Water Storage Project ( Cloncurry River Dam)

Cloncurry

MITEZ, Cloncurry Shire Council

–

250.0

Medium Term

492

60

$ 1.8M feasibility study funded by the Federal Government is due to commence in April 2017. This would be an additional water supply for the North West.

Hughenden Beef Processing Facility

Hughenden

Flinders Shire Council, North BEEF

–

52.8

Short Term

104

250

C hinese investment group, CNVM, is now in the process of meeting the legislative requirements and constructing a design and application with the Foreign Investment Review Board. The meat processing plant will focus on segmenting the carcasses, snap freezing and sending them out of Townsville, with about 180,000 head a year.

Kennedy Energy Park – Stage 2

Hughenden

Windlab

–

2,000.0

Short Term

3,934

479

T he second phase of the Kennedy Energy Park, dubbed 'Big Kennedy' is a $2B 1200MW solar and wind farm, due to commence in 2019.

071

Project Pipeline PROJECT

LOCATION

PROPONENT

BUILDER

INVESTMENT ($M)

STATUS

DIRECT CONSTRUCTION JOBS*

DIRECT OPERATION JOBS**

6,700.0

Medium Term

3,900

3,400

Medium Term

2,100

668

SECTOR

SURROUNDING REGION (Significant Projects) TOWNSVILLE (Projects valued at greater than $5M) China Stone Coal Project

Approx.

300 km west of Mackay

MacMines Austasia Pty Ltd

–

L arge-scale, greenfield coal mine with a yield of up to 38 million tonnes per annum of thermal coal.

Mackay Airport Redevelopment

Mackay

North Queensland Airports

Woollam Constructions

900.0

R edevelopment of Mackay Airport. $900M expansion plan over the next 20 years will underpin the airport as Central Queensland's Multimodal Intergrated Transport Hub Black Rock Opencut – Mount Isa Mines

Mount Isa

Glencore Mount Isa Mines

–

400.0

Potential Pipeline

787

133

S ignificant mining infrastructure relocation required to enable full access to the Copper Ore body. The ore from Black Rock will supplement the underground mining activities at the 1100 Orebody and 3000/3500 Orebodies.

Lake Julius Solar Energy Project

Mount Isa

Mount Isa Water Board

–

–

Medium Term

–

–

P lans to install a solar powered water pump to Lake Julius to supply water to Mount Isa's Treatment plant, this will benefit a great all round access for Lake Moondarra as it has been experiencing low levels. Pre-feasibility was completed in 2016.

Lindeman Island Resort

Whitsunday Region

White Horse Australian Lindeman Pty Ltd

–

583.0

Medium Term

300

300

R edevelopment of the Lindeman Island Resort, including over 300 suites and villas, dining and retail space, a 50 berth marina and other guest facilities, as well as environmental enhancements. The project is due to commence in 2018.

Transmission Link Project

Northern Queensland

Queensland Government

–

300.0

Short Term

5,000

72

M ajor renwable energy projects across North Queensland could be connected by a 500km transmission line that would reduce soaring power prices and create 5,000 jobs. The State Government will make a down payment of $150M and commission a feasibility study to investigate whether a 500km transmission line could connect to 75MW wind farm at Forsayth, the 520MW Kidston hydro and solar project, and the Kennedy Energy park, which is a combination of wind and solar generation that has capacity of 1200MW near Hughenden.

Image by Megan MacKinnon

072

Economic Snapshot MAJOR SPONSOR

SECTION SPONSOR

073

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We uniquely integrate the consulting specialisations of economics, property and commercial real estate, finance, and market research to deliver whole strategic solutions.

By delivering solutions, and not analysis, our focus is on delivering insights to guide strategic decision making. Our mantra is to be outcome driven.

Our innovation, creativity and vision are derived from the talented people we work with – our team and our clients. Whatever your business challenge is, we can sit with you to identify opportunities and a strategic plan for implementation. From economic forecasting, commercial property assessment, financial modelling, grant acquisition, demographic modelling, competitive market appraisal, or primary quantitative or qualitative market research on current or potential customers, AEC Group has a local team.

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We offer specialist teams with market knowledge across agriculture, local and State Government services, tourism and hospitality, regional development, local market business, and property and planning development. Our exceptional research, analysis, and interpretation complement our diverse mix of skills and expertise to deliver a truly outcome focused result for our clients.

We take the time to consider local issues and regional context to deliver practical outcomes, working with our clients to not only identify opportunities, but transform ideas and strategies into actual outcomes.

And it isn’t just all numbers here. Our visual communication team deliver award-winning graphic design, through product and industrial design, video production, creation of advertising campaigns, and integrating media strategies. We ensure that the marketing and communication products we deliver actually enhance, complement and drive our client’s brand.

Importantly, we judge our success by the success of our clients.

SECTION SPONSOR

Economic Snapshot Welcome to the Opportunity Townsville North Queensland Economic Snapshot. This report is designed to provide insight into the Townsville North Queensland economy using a cross-section of the most current available data.

With trends identified and comparisons to the wider State, this report is intended to not only paint a picture of how the regional economy is tracking, but also provide businesses access to relevant data key to decision making.

Northern Australia and the significance of the Townsville North Queensland region has never been more evident.

This influence is amplified with Townsville being the largest populated city in Northern Australia. The Economic Snapshot shows the continued strength and resilience of the region’s population, economy and international connectivity.

Image by Megan MacKinnon

075

Economic Snapshot Townsville North Queensland Economy

$14.1B

229,031

$330K

(REMPLAN Dec 2016)

(ABS 2016 Census)

(QMM Sep 2017)

GROSS REGIONAL PRODUCT

CURRENT REGIONAL POPULATION

MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE

Region at a glance KEY INDICATOR

2016 4.0

Business Confidence

(PVW Qtr Sep 2016)

59.5%

Employment Participation Rate

(ABS average over Sep, Oct, Nov, 2016)

Persons Employed (All Ages)

(ABS average over Sep, Oct, Nov, 2016)

94,433

CHANGE

10.0

6.0

(Qtr Sep 2017)

63.6%

4.1%

(ABS average over Sep, Oct, Nov, 2017)

107,663

12,200

(ABS average over Sep, Oct, Nov, 2017)

(QMM Sep 2016)

(QMM Sep 2017)

$330,000

-2.4%

2,703 for $360.98M

2,706 for $376.81M

$15.82M

1,096,000

-9.1%

132,000

7.5%

$339,900

Median House Price New Building Approvals (Townsville)

2017

(TCC 2016 full year)

1,205,721

Domestic Visitors

(TEQ June 2016)

122,790

International Visitors

(TEQ June 2016)

(TCC 2017 full year) (TEQ June 2017) (TEQ June 2017)

Nation at a glance Australia GDP Growth*

2.8%

Unemployment Rate*

5.4%

Inflation*

1.8%

Average Price Residential Dwellings*

$679,100

RBA Cash Rate*

1.5%

Queensland Gross State Product#

$316.21B

Population*

24.5 million

Queensland Population#

4.33 million

*Reserve Bank of Australia Snapshot July 2017

076

#

REMPLAN ABS December 2016

SECTION SPONSOR

Gross Regional Product PROJECTED GROSS REGIONAL PRODUCT FOR MAJOR REGIONAL CENTRES IN 2031 CAIRNS $14.0bn

TOWNSVILLE $19.3bn

MACKAY $11.6bn PILBARA $88.7bn BOWEN BASIN - NORTH $17.3bn

GLADSTONE - BILOELA $17.8bn

MID WEST $12.9bn

DARLING DOWNS - MARANOA $12.3bn

TOOWOOMBA $12.1bn

RICHMOND - TWEED $12.8bn

NEW ENGLAND & NORTH WEST $12.5bn

GOLDFIELDS $13.4bn

MID NORTH COAST $10.7bn

BUNBURY $13.0bn

HUNTER VALLEY EXCL NEWCASTLE $25.2bn SOUTH AUSTRALIA - OUTBACK

$11.0bn CENTRAL WEST $17.4bn

SOUTH AUSTRALIA - SOUTH EAST

$11.5bn

NORTH WEST $10.9bn

CAPITAL REGION $11.4bn

LATROBE - GIPPSLAND $19.5bn

RIVERINA $12.0bn HUME $10.9bn

Source: Australian Infrastructure Audit, 2015

Infrastructure Australia predicts in the Australian Infrastructure Plan, released in February 2016, that Townsville will continue to be the second largest economy in Northern Australia in 2031. The Townsville economy is estimated to increase from the current GRP of $13.5B to $19.3B in the coming 15 years, indicating strong growth expectations.

The Australian Infrastructure Plan clearly recommends capitalising on opportunities to develop the north:

The Northern Australia economy – that is, all of the Northern Territory and those parts of Queensland and Western Australia north of the Tropic of Capricorn – is growing quickly. This is particularly the case for north-east Queensland in Townsville, Cairns and Rockhampton.

These places will dominate the north in the coming decades because they have some of the highest population growth rates in the country. They also contain important sea ports, airports, major roads, railways and logistic centres that are gateways to Asia, which is likely to represent around two-thirds of the global middle-class population and consumption by 2031.

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Economic Snapshot Gross Regional Product (continued) Figure 1 V alue-added Gross Regional Product for Townsville North Queensland Rental, Hiring & Real Estate Services 14.5% Public Administration & Safety 13.3% Manufacturing 8.1% Construction 7.8% Health Care & Social Assistance 7.6% Education & Training 6.2% Retail Trade 5.2% Transport, Postal & Warehousing 4.8%

$14.17B

Financial & Insurance Services 4.8% Electricity, Gas, Water & Waste Services 4.6%

(5.0% growth in 2016)

Professional, Scientific & Technical Services 4.0% Wholesale Trade 3.7% Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing 3.3% Accommodation & Food Services 2.6% Mining 2.4% Administrative & Support Services 2.4% Information Media & Telecommunications 2.2% Other Services 2.0% Arts & Recreation Services 0.6%

Source:REMPLAN, REMPLAN, December SOURCE: DECEMBER 20162016 Diversity continues to be the underpinning driver of the region’s economic strength. The largest industry is Rental, Hiring and Real Estate, representing 14.5% of the economy followed by Public Administration and Safety, and Manufacturing at 13.3%.

Around half of the region’s GRP is shared across the five largest industries.

Townsville North Queensland 2016 GRP grew by 5% from $13.501B to $14.169B. The growth areas contributing over 5% GRP include:

Industry Sector Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing Rental, Hiring & Real Estate Services Finance & Insurance Services Public Administration & Safety

GRP Apr 2016 ($M)

GRP Dec 2016 ($M)

Growth

$430.42

$473.96

10.1%

$1,905.68

$2,061.60

8.2%

$628.86

$ 679.87

8.1%

$1,768.13

$ 1,882.36

6.5%

Education & Training

$827.78

$879.84

6.3%

Wholesale Trade

$488.43

$ 518.44

6.1%

Information Media & Telecommunications

$291.23

$307.93

5.7%

Other Services

$267.49

$282.30

5.5%

Source: REMPLAN, December 2016

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SECTION SPONSOR

The top three growth industries have added over a billion dollars to the region’s economy over the last 5 years.

Finance & Insurance Services

Rental, Hiring & Real Estate Services

Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing

% of Total GRP 25.0%

$3,500.00 $3,000.00

20.0%

($M)

$2,500.00 $2,000.00

15.0%

$1,500.00

10.0%

$1,000.00 5.0%

$500.00 $0.00 Jan 2011

Feb 2011

Dec 2012

Apr 2014

Apr 2015

Dec 2016

Apr 2016

0.0%

Source: REMPLAN Of the 19 industry sectors representing the economy, Townsville North Queensland had 16 industry sectors with positive growth and three showing a retraction. The industries have retracted just over $300M over the last five years; all are related to the mining industry. The industries in question include:

GRP Apr 2016 ($M)

Retracted Industry Sector

GRP Dec 2016 ($M)

Growth

Professional, Scientific & Technical Services

$ 574.82

$ 566.20

-1.5%

Mining

$ 336.77

$ 334.37

-0.7%

Accommodation & Food Services

$ 370.30

$ 369.61

-0.2%

Professional, Scientific & Technical Services

The Professional, Scientific & Technical Services industry sector shows a worrying retraction, however, when looking at the industry trend over the last five years the sector has grown from 3.1% of the region’s GRP to 4.0% over that time. 2016 was a year of consolidation for the industry as it continues to build its industry base.

($M)

Professional, Scientific & Technical Services

% of Total GRP

$700.00

4.5%

$600.00

4.0% 3.5%

$500.00

3.0%

$400.00

2.5%

$300.00

2.0% 1.5%

$200.00

1.0%

$100.00

0.5%

$0.00 Jan 2011

Feb 2011

Dec 2012

Apr 2014

Apr 2015

Apr 2016

Dec 2016

0.0%

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Economic Snapshot Mining The mining industry retraction is a continued trend over the last four years since the construction phase was completed.

Townsville North Queensland is a service and supply centre for the mining industry; therefore, the completion of the mining infrastructure means that less goods and services are required to be supplied to the mining industry. Furthermore, that addition of new mining developments globally has reduced the value of the mines commodities (supply glut). The mining industry slipped from a high of 7.4% of total GRP for the region to 2.4%. This retraction has been absorbed in the regional GRP of the 18 other industry sectors.

% of Total GRP

Mining $1,200.00

8.0% 7.0%

$1,000.00

6.0%

($M)

$800.00

5.0%

$600.00

4.0% 3.0%

$400.00

2.0% $200.00

1.0% 0.0%

$0.00 Jan 2011

Feb 2011

Dec 2012

Apr 2014

Apr 2015

Apr 2016

Dec 2016

Accommodation & Food Services Accommodation & Food Services had a minor retraction; however, the industry has experienced slow growth over the last five years. This growth is expected to be significantly accelerated due to the construction of the North Queensland Stadium, Cruise Ship Overnights, increased air connectivity, City Deal agreement and the PDA development. 2016 was a year of consolidation for this industry sector.

Mining

% of Total GRP 2.8%

$400.00 $350.00

2.7%

$300.00 2.6%

($M)

$250.00 $200.00

2.5%

$150.00

2.4%

$100.00 2.3%

$50.00 $0.00

2.2% Jan 2011

080

Feb 2011

Dec 2012

Apr 2014

Apr 2015

Apr 2016

Dec 2016

SECTION SPONSOR

Gross Regional Product (continued) Combining the GRP for North West Resources Region with that of Townsville North Queensland produces a regional picture of an economy with, predictably, a higher GRP contribution from the mining sector.

Figure 2 Value-added Gross Regional Product for Townsville North Queensland and North West Rental, Hiring & Real Estate Services 13.6% Public Administration & Safety 11.5% Mining 10.5% Manufacturing 7.7% Construction 7.4% Health Care & Social Assistance 6.8% Education & Training 5.6% Retail Trade 4.6% Transport, Postal & Warehousing 4.6%

$17.57B

Electricity, Gas, Water & Waste Services 4.2% Financial & Insurance Services 4.2% Professional, Scientific & Technical Services 3.4% Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing 3.4% Wholesale Trade 3.4% Accommodation & Food Services 2.4% Administrative & Support Services 2.4% Other Services 1.9% Information Media & Telecommunications 1.9% Arts & Recreation Services 0.5%

Source: REMPLAN, December 2016

Statistical Divisions QUEENSLAND

NORTH WEST

TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND

081

Economic Snapshot Estimated Population Townsville maintained population growth into 2016, with a growth rate of 6.6% since 2011, bringing the city’s population to an estimated 192,058 people. (ABS 3218.0) In the broader region, Townsville North Queensland grew by a collective 4.6% since 2011, to an estimated total population of 235,037. (ABS 3218.0)

Townsville North Queensland by 2036

333,883

The most recent projections show the Townsville North Queensland region is expected to reach a population of 333,833 by June 2036, an increase of 1.6% per year over 20 years. Townsville City is expected to have 288,663 persons, with an annual growth rate of 1.9% per year.

288,663

Townsville City by 2036

Regional Population Forecasts to 2036 19,223

13,198

Burdekin

Charters Towers

9,636

3,184

Hinchinbrook

Palm Island

Queensland Government Population Projections, 2015 edition (medium series)

Image by Megan MacKinnon

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SECTION SPONSOR

Median Age

Regional Population Projections to 2036 by Age Group YEAR

2016

35.1 Townsville North Queensland

37 Queensland

New Residents

39 Weekly

2,071

AGE

YEAR

16,758

0–4

21,082

16,732

5–9

21,076

16,343

10–14

21,544

17,973

15–19

23,367

19,378

20–24

24,805

17,925

25–29

22,735

17,419

30–34

21,349

15,433

35–39

20,612

16,010

40–44

20,410

16,195

45–49

20,436

15,387

50–54

19,691

14,699

55–59

17,362

12,362

60–64

16,721

10,719

65–69

15,755

7,896

70–74

14,295

5,583

75–79

12,797

3,683

80–84

9,671

3,509

85+

10,125

244,003

TOTAL

333,833

Yearly Projected population (low, medium and high series), by five-year age group and sex, Greater Brisbane Greater Capital City Statistical Area (GCCSA) and non-Greater Brisbane GCCSA statistical areas level 4s (SA4s), Queensland, 2011 to 2036

083

Economic Snapshot Education and Innovation Expansions in the region’s tertiary education sector continue to be a major pillar of the Townsville North Queensland economy.

The value-added contribution of the Education and Training industry to the region’s Gross Regional Product is $879.84M, or around 6.2% of the region’s total GRP. The sector has increased by $120.9M from April 2015.

Townsville’s future in education is looking bright with a number of innovations and facilities being completed and more in planning.

Education Infrastructure Projects Central Queensland University Townsville Expansion Central Queensland University campus expansion was completed and ready for student intake in 2017.

CQ University Vice-Chancellor Professor Scott Bowman explained that larger than forecast growth for the University in Townsville, meant that plans for expansions needed to be brought forward immediately to cater for demand. (CQU July 2016) The university expansion will see seven new on-campus programs offered, including both undergraduate and postgraduate offerings. New undergraduate and post graduate programs that will be offered face-to-face in Townsville for 2017 including Bachelor of Nursing, Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary), Bachelor of Psychological Science, Bachelor of Public Health, Bachelor of Allied Health, Masters of Business Administration and Masters of Professional Accounting.

James Cook University – Discovery Rise Development Discovery Rise is James Cook University’s vision to create an integrated residential and knowledge community on its Douglas Campus in Townsville.

This long-term project reached its first milestone in 2013 with the opening of the Clinical Services Building, combining a dental and hospital training facility with public and private health facilities and major retail outlets.

When the project is fully realised, JCU will be home to a residential community connecting the University’s education and research facilities and the adjacent hospital and health services with a range of community and commercial facilities.

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SECTION SPONSOR

Property

Queensland House Markets September Quarter 2017

The property market has been under significant stress due to various pressures – The Yabulu Nickel Refinery closure and completion of mining construction projects. These retraction pressures have discounted property values and increased the regions vacancy rates in the rental market. Local government and business leaders have worked to reverse this trend with significant success that will see potential value added to the Townsville property market on a long-term basis.

Some of the works that support this value increase include:

Noosa Gold Coast

Mackay Gladstone

Sunshine Coast Greater Brisbane Fraser Coast Bundaberg Cairns Toowoomba

RE

Townsville

IN

STEADY

CO

G

STEADY

VE

NG

L BI

G

IN

IS

RI

Construction started on the $250M North Queensland

Stadium with more than 75% of the works to be completed by local regional businesses.

LL

N

SI

RI

Rockhampton

FA

G

A

ST

Townsville House Sales Mar 17

C onstruction of the $515M Haughton River Floodway on the

Jun 17

Sep 17*

322

Bruce Highway south of Townsville has been brought forward nine months ahead of schedule to begin August 2018.

250

205

191

129

92

51

T he $167M expansion of the Ravenswood Mine has

reached the final stages of the environmental approval.

The expansion will extend the mine life out to 2029 and increase Gold production to 120,000 ounces per annum.

<$350K

$350K+

46

43

$500K+

Townsville Unit Sales

Adani has been given the green light to construct the Carmichael

Mar 17

68

Coal Mine project. The region could potentially see over 4,000 jobs generated from the project activity as well as from the Adani Regional Headquarters being based in Townsville.

50

42

36 38

<$250K

At least seven renewable energy projects are in the process

of being constructed or awaiting approval in the region.

Examples include Genex Kidston Hydro Solar (250MW), Sun Metals Solar Power (100MW) to supply power to its refinery, and Upper Ross Solar Plant (148MW).

Jun 17

20

Sep 17*

$250K+

26 10

10 15 7

$350K+

$500K+

11

Townsville Land Sales Mar 17

99

Jun 17

Sep 17*

78

Townsville’s property market is currently very affordable with low capital value and potential for greater than average gains due to the infrastructure and project development activities that have recently commenced or are to commence in the next twelve months.

34 6

<$250K

6

4

$250K+

2

6

3

$350K+ * Preliminary data

Regional Median House Price Analysis through to Q3, 2017 Local Government Area (LGA)

Annual Median sale price ($)

Quarterly % change

1 year % change

5 year % change

-2.4%

-8.7%

Townsville

$330,000

-1.5%

Burdekin

$170,000

-24.4%

-2.9%

-19.6%

Charters Towers

n/a

n/a

-23.8%

-36.2%

Hinchinbrook

n/a

n/a

-7.9%

-27.8%

“Townsville is Queensland’s largest regional housing market, with about 450–550 transactions per quarter.

The most active price bracket is for transactions below $350,000.” – REIQ Issue 34

085

Economic Snapshot Townsville Building Approvals DESCRIPTION

2017 Quantity*

Dwelling

2017 Value*

2016 Quantity

2016 Value

444

$111,574,146

655

$172,309,259

16

$8,636,363

30

$16,924,287

Commercial

164

$78,542,663

214

$104,945,851

Pools & Spa

208

$6,269,969

323

$9,689,306

Other

1,031

$31,292,121

1,565

$59,455,225

Total

1,789

$233,921,844

2,703

$360,985,996

Unit (Buildings / Units)

*Up to and including August 2017

Townsvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Overall Building Activity 350

$90,000,000 $80,000,000 $70,000,000 $60,000,000 $50,000,000 $40,000,000 $30,000,000 $20,000,000 $10,000,000 $0,000,000

300 250 200 150 100 50 0

Regional Building Approvals REGION

Burdekin Charters Towers Hinchinbrook

086

Year

No. new houses

No. new other residential building

Total dwellings

Value of nonresidential building

Value of total building

2016

23

44

55

n/a

$12,431,339

2015

27

0

27

$â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

$8,968,000

2016

11

8

19

$7,490,020

$10,491,200

2015

14

2

16

$721,000

$6,119,000

2016

16

0

16

$4,920,000

$4920,000

2015

21

8

29

$8,045,266

$14,689,623

SECTION SPONSOR

Business Confidence Townsville business confidence remains high with business leaders seeing short-term expectations of business growth and employment growth.

For more detailed information, contact the PVW Partners Townsville office on (07) 4721 8500.

Townsville Business Confidence Index 15 10 5 0 -5 -10

The PVW Partnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Townsville Business Confidence Index indicates that business confidence has strengthened in the December 2017 quarter, continuing the positive trend seen since the June 2016 quarter with six consecutive quarters of positive business sentiment now having been recorded.

The survey results showed that the overall confidence of the Townsville business participants increased by 6.1 points on the September 2017 quarter result, bringing the index close to the level reached in the March 2017 quarter (which continues to be the highest level of confidence recorded since December 2007).

Larger business participants (those turning over more than $10 million) were extremely positive across all composite part of the index with sales levels and capital expenditure expected to increase by 82% and 73% of participants respectively.

Whilst the response was more muted by the smaller business participants, there continues to be increase levels of confidence in this group of participants. While 53% of the smaller business participants expected sales levels to increase, a further 44% expected sales levels to remain constant â&#x20AC;&#x201C; leaving only 3% expecting sales levels to decrease over the quarter.

64% of larger business participants and 31% of smaller business participants expect to employ more workers during this quarter. This differential is not unexpected and is in line with past results during periods of sustained growth in business confidence. On a business by business

17

17

17

17 D

ec

p Se

n Ju

ar

16 M

ec

p

16 D

Se

16 n

16 ar

Ju

15

Business ConďŹ dence Change Index - Townsville

M

ec

15

15 D

p Se

n

15 ar

Ju

14 M

14

14

ec D

p Se

n

14 ar

Ju

13 M

ec

13

13

13 D

p Se

n Ju

12

ar M

12

12

ec D

p Se

n Ju

M

ar

12

-15

Source: PVW Partners 2017

basis, it can be easier for larger businesses to create more employment opportunities than smaller businesses, however this is offset by the far higher number of smaller than larger businesses in our economy.

Positive expectations around future sales growth was a real feature of the results for the December 2017 quarter.

This quarter participants were also asked if they were experiencing difficulty in finding personnel for key skill sets required for their business. This question was included due to anecdotal evidence around some labour market shortages emerging as our regional economy is slowly reviving.

40% of participants reported that there were sufficient labour inputs currently available for their business operations with 15% indicating they considered there to be a surplus of the skills they needed for their business in the labour market. This did, however, leave 45% of respondents indicating they were starting to see some labour shortages with 15% of all respondents reporting clear shortages of key labour skills for their businesses.

These potential shortages are likely to be due, at least in part, to some people having left our region to find work elsewhere over the past couple of years. We expect there to be a natural lag between businesses securing additional contracts and being able to induce some of those people to come back to the region, or to bring new people to the region.

087

Economic Snapshot State of the States

State of the States

equipment investment, unemployment, construction work completed, population growth, housing, finance and dwelling Each quarter CommSec delivers a report by analysing commencement. The following summarises the October 2017 October 2017 State & territory economic performance report. edition of the report. eight key indicators: economic growth, retail spending,

Executive Summary

Employment NSW ON TOP; VICTORIA CLOSES IN The Australian Government Department of Employment released labour projections for roles. The greatest growth in How are Australia’s states performing?

Each employment is projected to and be interritories the services section with a quarter CommSec attempts to find out by analysing eight key focus on the medical/carer services. The Townsville region is indicators: economic growth; retail spending; business well placed to take advantage of construction these growth sectors: investment; unemployment; work done;

population growth; housing finance and dwelling commencements.

Home of the only Tier 1 hospital outside of a capital city Just as the Reserve Bank uses long-term averages to determine the level ‘normal’Health interestResearch rates; we conducted have done the World leader in of Tropical at same with key economic indicators. For each state and James Cook University territory, latest readings for the key indicators were compared with decade averages – that is, against the ‘normal’ performance.

T he full suite of medical professions and specialists based in Townsville The State of the States report also includes a section comparing annual growth rates for the eight key indicators across the states and territories as well as Australia as a whole.

This enables another point of comparison – in terms of 088 economic momentum.

A young median age

The latesttodata Australia’s economies to be in good Home twoshows universities and other adult education services shape but with some differences in relative performance.

NSW remains on top while Victoria is not far behind, ahead Townsville 7.3% (Nov 2017), with a of ACT. Thenunemployment there is a gap to is South Australia, Tasmania, Queensland, and the Northern then another concerning but improving youthTerritory, unemployment rate ofgap 10.6%. to Western Australia.

NSW has retainedrate theis position aslocal the economy, best performing The participation key to the indicating economy, at or near the top of all indicators. the number of people that are working and earning. The Victoria holdsrate second spot on the economic performance participation in the region has been increasing and the rankings with strength provided by high population growth, trend indicates positive employment growth in Townsville. boosting housingademand.

The ACT participation rate is on now than 63.6%.

The retains third spot thegreater performance rankingsThis but is a significant improvement thejob same time last year where there has been a softening on in the market. the participation rate lifted was 59.5% (Nov 2016).

South Australia has from sixth to fourth spot, just ahead of Tasmania and Queensland.

Northern Territory remains in seventh position.

Western Australia continues to lag other economies and annual growth rates remain below national averages on seven of eight indicators surveyed.

SECTION SPONSOR

Change in Employment (Month on Month) 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 – (2,000) (4,000) (6,000) (8,000) (10,000)

Number of Businesses Operating in Townsville North Queensland Source: ABS 8165.0, Counts of Australian Businesses

9,603

4,432

2,000

429

9

Non-employing

1–4 Employees

5–19 Employees

20–199 Employees

200+ Employees

= 16,519 Total Businesses

Business Turnover in Townsville North Queensland Source: ABS 8165.0, Counts of Australian Businesses

5,923

6,603

2,822

981

$0 to less than $100k

$100k to less than $500k

$500k to less than $2M

Over $2M

089

Economic Snapshot Port of Townsville’s Trade Portfolio

Driving IMPORTS for Northern Queensland Driving EXPORTS for Northern Queensland

Agriculture

2.847

million tonnes

Mining & Resources

2.251

million tonnes

41%

Connecting Northern Australia to the World Strategically located in close proximity to Asia Trading with over 12 Asian countries

Fuel, Cement & Chemicals

1.447

million tonnes

33%

17 DAYS Townsville – Shanghai 8 DAYS Townsville – Singapore

General Cargo

0.364

million tonnes

21%

5%

10 DAYS Townsville – Malaysia 8 DAYS Townsville – Kaoshiung Source: Port of Townsville

090

SECTION SPONSOR

Tourism – Visitation The year to June 2017 saw positive growth in business and international visitors. This growth demonstrates there have been a significant amount of investment related trips in the region, including a substantial number of international business travelers, a positive for the future growth of the North Queensland economy. Positive growth in international visitors can be attributed to the two direct international flights secured in the twelve month period and an improved international tourism campaign delivered during this time:

June 2017

Annual % Change

3 Year Trend % Change

Domestic Visitors

1,096,000

-9.1%

2.0%

Domestic Holiday

358,000

-4.6%

0.6%

Domestic Visiting Friends and Relatives

285,000

-28.4%

-6.6%

Domestic Business

318,000

7.5%

9.9%

International Visitors

132,000

7.5%

10.2%

International Holiday

109,000

18.2%

12.8%

International Visiting Friends and Relatives

13,000

-38.8%

-3.3%

International Business

5,000

39.6%

14.7%

1,228,000

-7.6%

2.8%

Total Visitors

Key Source Markets – Domestic (as at March 2017) 142,000

754,000 Regional Queensland

Brisbane

0.6%

-6.9%

Key Source Markets – International (as at March 2017) UK

Germany

USA

France

New Zealand

26,000

25,000

11,000

9,000

8,000

0%

9.3%

11.7%

53.9%

-23.4%

Tourism Expenditure

2016 Spend Total

2017 Spend Total

Change

Domestic

$925.4M

$755.9M

-$169.5M

International

$108.1M

$105.8M

-$2.3M

Average Days spent in region (Domestic)

3.7

3.4

-0.3

Average Days spent in region (International)

15.0

9.5

-5.5 Source: Tourism and Events Queensland

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$0.42

Accommodation & Food Services

$0.20

Transport, Postal & Warehousing

Economic Snapshot $0.10

Retail Trade

$0.06

Ownership of Dwellings

$0.05

Education & Training

$0.05

Manufacturing

$0.03

Arts & Recreation Services

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Tourism â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Expenditure Per Dollar $0.42

Accommodation & Food Services

$0.02

Administrative & Support Services

$0.20

Transport, Postal & Warehousing

$0.02

Rental, Hiring & Real Estate Services

$0.10

Retail Trade

$0.02

Wholesale Trade

$0.06

Ownership of Dwellings

$0.01

Health Care & Social Assistance

$0.05

Education & Training

$0.01

Information Media & Telecommunications

$0.05

Manufacturing

$0.01

Other Services

$0.03

Arts & Recreation Services

$0.02

Administrative & Support Services

Source: 2015-16, Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)

Rental, Hiring & RealFigures Estate Services Business Event

$0.02 $0.02

$0.01 $0.01

Wholesale Trade

65

5,197

15,541

Health Care & Social Assistance

Information Media & Telecommunications

Other Services EVENTS

$0.01

Source: Queensland Business Events Survey 2016/17 FY

DELEGATES

5,645

STATE AND LOCAL

800

NATIONAL

DELEGATE DAYS

55

INTERNATIONAL

Townsville International Airport Figures for 2017 FY

2,195,296

1,436,066

Seats

Passengers -2.4%

-0.7% Source: http://www.townsvilleairport.com.au/corporate/statistics/

Glossary of Terms Gross Regional Product (GRP) Gross Regional Product is the total value of final goods and services produced in the region over the period of one year.

This includes exports but subtracts

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imports. GRP can be measured by adding up all forms of final expenditure inclusive of consumption by households, consumption by Governments, additions or increases to assets (minus disposals) and exports (minus imports).

(Source: REMPLAN Economic Modelling)

Value-added Value-added data represents the additional economic value that is made by each industry sector.

(Source: REMPLAN Economic Modelling)

Northern Living MAJOR SPONSOR

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PROMOTION

Opportunity Hinchinbrook An hour north of Townsville is the tropical paradise of Hinchinbrook, renowned for its enviable relaxed lifestyle and incredible natural attributes.

F acilitating new eco-tourism opportunities

With Ingham at its centre, the Hinchinbrook Shire is encompassed by World Heritage Areas; comprised of rugged mountain ranges, ancient rainforests, giant waterfalls, wild beaches, pristine tropical islands and the iconic Great Barrier Reef. It’s a place where breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife, world-class fishing experiences, delicious locally sourced food, inspirational art and 60,000 years of culture combine to deliver an outstanding quality of life for locals and an incredible destination for visitors.

U pgrading tourism information services, including

R aising the profile of our world-class recreational

fishing experiences provision of free public Wi Fi A Quintessential Tropical Rural Lifestyle Discover the joys of living in Hinchinbrook; Queensland’s most affordable and enviable lifestyle.

R anked Queensland’s number one retirement

destination (Core Logic, 2017) R anked 20 th in Australia for access to GP health services

Tourism Opportunities

D iversity of education choices

In the past five years the Hinchinbrook tourism sector has experienced rapid growth with:

M ultiple award winning cultural services 2 5 minutes from the Great Barrier Reef

3 3% annual average visitation growth (2012–17)

E asy access for boating and fishing

6 0% increase in visitor expenditure (2012–17)

4 50 vacant residential lots ready for development

(Tourism Research Australia, 2013, 2017) The Hinchinbrook Shire Council acknowledges the value of developing the local tourism sector and is supporting growth through the following initiatives: P rogressing feasibility studies to enhance marine access

infrastructure at Lucinda

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M edian residential land price of $63,500 M edian residential dwelling price of $215,000

Contact Council’s Economic Development Unit on (07) 4776 4655 or visit us online at: www.hinchinbrookway.com.au/invest

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Northern Living Providing a relaxed tropical lifestyle, complemented by metropolitan city comforts, no other Australian region boasts the resilience, diversity, lifestyle and economic potential that the Townsville North Queensland region enjoys.

The Townsville North Queensland region extends to the Burdekin in the south, Charters Towers to the west, Hinchinbrook to the north and the Palm Group of Islands and Magnetic Island to the east.

Regarded as the commercial hub of Northern Australia, with a population approaching 240,000, the Townsville North Queensland region offers a dynamic lifestyle coupled with strong economic prosperity. At the centre of the region is Townsville, a thriving precinct with access to a variety of dining outlets, unique retailing, spectacular events and entertainment, world-class education facilities, leading health care, affordable housing and a wide range of outdoor recreation options. The agricultural hinterland that surrounds the city includes Hinchinbrook, Charters Towers, Burdekin and Palm Island regions which provide a playground of leisure activities and diverse employment options.

Underpinned by a diverse economy, Townsville offers employment opportunities across a variety of industries.

The regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main employment providers include retail trade, health care and social assistance, public administration and safety, manufacturing, education and training, and construction.

Image by Megan MacKinnon

Image by Megan MacKinnon

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Northern Living Climate With over 300 days of sunshine each year, the Townsville North Queensland region, located along Australia’s east coast, has an average maximum temperature of 31°C in summer and a comfortable 25°C during the winter months.

The average minimum temperatures range between 24°C in Summer and 14°C in Winter. Average rainfall each year is 1,143mm, which mostly occurs from December to March.

Townsville North Queensland Average Temperatures 31.4 Max. (°C) 24.3

31.1 24.1

30.7

22.9

Min. (°C)

29.6

20.6

27.6

17.6

25.6

14.6

25.1

13.7

26.0

14.7

27.8

17.4

29.4

20.7

30.7

31.5

22.9

24.1

Townsville North Queensland Average Days of Rain

11.8

Days of Rain

12.8 9.6 5.4

3.7

2.4

1.9

1.5

1.3

2.9

4.9

7.3

Sporting International and National Sporting Events

Local Sporting Teams

Townsville is home to two national sporting teams – the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys (NRL) and the JCU Townsville Fire (WNBL). Townsville residents and visitors enjoy the flurry of activity and sporting spirit that each home game presents.

Townsville is also a host city for the national Supercar circuit and Commonwealth Games 2018 basketball preliminaries.

Due to the beautiful weather all year round, Townsville has an extremely active community. With access to all codes of football (Australian Rules, Rugby League, Rugby Union, and Soccer), basketball, baseball, water sports, hockey, netball, golf, volleyball, bowling, equestrian, triathlons, adventure sports and more, there is something that will suit everyone’s lifestyle.

The region plays host to a number of participation-based sporting events throughout the year. These range from the laid back larrikin atmosphere of the Charters Towers Goldfield Ashes (the Southern Hemisphere’s largest amateur cricket tournament), to the highly-competitive Townsville Triathlon Festival. Other popular sporting events include the Townsville Running Festival, Paluma Push, Magnetic Island to Townsville Swim, Adventurethon and Magnetic Island Race Week – a week long sailing regatta played out on the waters of Cleveland Bay.

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Arts, Culture and Events

Contemporary Dance

Live theatre, music and the arts feature prominently in the lifestyles of the Townsville North Queensland community.

Townsville has two major art galleries – Perc Tucker Regional Gallery and Pinnacles Gallery – with smaller boutique galleries throughout the region. The Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre hosts major acts, concerts, conventions, exhibitions and indoor sporting events.

Dancenorth is Townsville’s very own globally recognised contemporary dance company. Dancenorth has a reputation for original and bold productions that are performed locally, nationally and internationally.

The Townsville Civic Theatre holds several local, national and international performances, including dance, music, opera, comedy and drama.

Museum of Tropical Queensland The Museum of Tropical Queensland (MTQ) provides a great opportunity to learn about the cultural and natural heritage of tropical Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef. Learn about the history of the rainforest, corals and marine creatures and let the kids have fun in the Mind Zone interactive science centre.

Festivals The annual Australian Festival of Chamber Music is an internationally-acclaimed production targeted at classical music lovers from around the world. The Festival is now widely acknowledged as the largest chamber music festival in the Southern Hemisphere.

The Townsville Cultural Fest is held annually showcasing local, national and international musicians, dancers, poets and cultural performers from a multitude of diverse backgrounds.

Other festivals include the Glendi Festival , Australian Italian Festival, Ten Days in the Towers and the Burdekin Water Festival. Groovin’ the Moo attracts music enthusiasts by the thousands to see national and international artists perform on the May Day long weekend. This often sold out music festival is a highlight of the region’s Event Calendar. Past acts include 360, Hilltop Hoods, The Wombats and Bliss N Eso.

Jezzine Barracks – Australian Army Museum of North Queensland This highly regarded and well-visited museum collects, preserves and exhibits the history of the Australian Army in Northern Queensland, from the establishment of the first Defences in Townsville and Thursday Island through to present day. The gallery displays the history of the colonial Army in North Queensland, post-1945 conflicts with Vietnam and Korea, and the history of Sir John Lavarack. A third gallery is currently under construction and will house World War I and World War II displays, including the Townsville Honour Boards from both of these conflicts.

Maritime Museum of Townsville In 2001, the Museum opened its doors to the public after a year of extensive refurbishment. With Commonwealth Centenary of Federation funding, the resulting ‘ship complex’ has attracted a great deal of community support. Located on the southern bank of Ross Creek, the boardwalk overlooks the Townsville Motorboat and Yacht Club, while the entrance opens out onto Palmer Street’s inviting coffee and restaurant strip.

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Northern Living Dining, Entertainment and Shopping Dining Options Boasting four main dining precincts, Townsville offers exceptional dining experiences, on par with those expected in any Australian capital city. Palmer Street, adjacent to the city centre, is home to a number of award-winning restaurants and is considered the ultimate place to wine and dine. For the coffee lovers, both Gregory and Flinders Streets are ideal locations to indulge your senses. Cannon Park Dining and Entertainment Precinct offers family-friendly dining and entertainment options, featuring 10 restaurants, a cinema complex and a bowling lounge.

Extensive Retail Townsville is well equipped to cater to one of everyone’s favourite pastimes – shopping. With four major shopping centres – Willows, Castletown, Fairfield and Stockland – Townsville offers shoppers a wide variety of retail choices in air-conditioned comfort. The city is also scattered with trendy boutiques with cutting edge and vintage fashion.

Markets are regularly held throughout the region, offering access to locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables, homemade sweets, baked goods, crafts, flowers, jewellery, pottery and artwork.

Regarded as Queensland’s largest bulk goods and outlet shopping centre, Domain Central offers over 60 of Australia’s best brand name retailers, 1,800 car parks and a variety of facilities. With stores such as JB Hi-Fi, Bunnings, Freedom, Nick Scali, Harvey Norman, BCF, The Good Guys, TK Maxx and Snooze, you’ll find everything you need in one convenient location. For furniture, homewares, hardware, gifts, fashion, food, haircare, outdoor, fishing, boating and more, Domain Central has it all.

The surrounding regions are known for their local produce, delis and artefacts, each offering unique shopping experiences.

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Nightlife As Northern Australia’s largest city, Townsville offers a wide range of sophisticated bars, classically-styled Queensland pubs, and modern restaurants. Flinders Street East is the heart of Townsville’s vibrant nightlife, with a full suite of nightclubs and entertainment venues. The city has come of age in recent years and is now home to funky cafés, laneways and boutique bars. City Lane, a sophisticated, New Yorkinspired precinct, sits in the heart of Flinders Street, offering a range of unique dining experiences in one vibrant location.

Contemporary street art mixes harmoniously with heritage buildings that remind you of the city’s roots.

The Ville Resort – Casino is superbly located on the Townsville Breakwater, set amongst tropical landscaped gardens overlooking Cleveland Bay and Magnetic Island. It’s a destination in its own right, drawing on the region’s natural surrounds of the Great Barrier Reef, tropical rainforests and beaches.

Movies Catching the latest movie is easy with four cinema complexes in Townsville and one in Hinchinbrook. Charters Towers and the Burdekin also have cinemas and drive-in theatres.

Townsville’s Reading Cinemas is located at Cannon Park, Event Cinemas and BCC both positioned strategically in the CBD and Warrina Cineplex, a family owned independent cinema, is located in Currajong. Each of the centres are placed within walking distance to a number of dining options, ensuring a trip to the movies is always an enjoyable experience.

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Transport and Infrastructure Getting Around – Townsville’s Transportation Townsville has a less congested road network, compared to major capital cities, that is incredibly easy to navigate. Quick access to services and recreation facilities offers residents the ultimate work-life balance.

Parking is free throughout most of Townsville’s suburbs and major shopping centres. Paid parking in the CBD is both easy to find and significantly cheaper compared to capital cities.

Parking in Townsville’s CBD will cost an average of $6 per day (8 hours) in comparison to $73.74 per day in Brisbane or $77.61 per day in Sydney (RACQ, 2017).

With a large network of bike and walking paths, Townsville offers healthy transportation options. The city continues to expand access to bike paths, with a strong focus on encouraging a healthy community and maintaining less congestion on the roads. With Townsville’s enviable climate, it isn’t surprising that many residents make use of the bike paths for recreation as well as transportation between work and home.

The Townsville International Airport welcomes 1.6 million passengers annually via a number of major airlines including Qantas, Virgin Blue, Rex, Air North, Alliance, Jet Go, Jetstar and TigerAir. This is expected to rise to 3.6 million passengers annually by 2030. Townsville’s regular flight paths offer direct connections to Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and key mining sites. The airport is growing its flight destinations internationally, with direct flights operating between Townsville and Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Townsville is also a significant hub for fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workers due to its enviable lifestyle and support services available to the mining industry and families.

Magnetic Island is the most accessible island in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park – only a 20 minute ferry ride from Townsville. Passenger ferries service the Island with 18 return trips a day, with the vehicle ferry operating seven return trips daily. On arrival, visitors can hire a car or take advantage of the public transport including bus, coach and taxi transfers all available to and from the terminal.

Townsville’s residents also have access to a comprehensive bus service which operates throughout the city using Queensland Transport’s ‘qconnect’ system. Townsville’s buses have a hail ‘n’ ride service as well as the regular scheduled stops to make public transport easier and more flexible.

Long distance coach services, school bus services, taxis and Uber are also available within Townsville.

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Northern Living The Great Outdoors Townsville North Queensland is the gateway to the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, Wet Tropics rainforest, tropical islands, wetlands, national parks and historical, military and outback experiences.

Boasting more than 300 days of sunshine each year, Townsville is a holiday destination perfect for families, couples and friends, with more than 700 dining outlets, unique retailing and attractions, 3,000 hotel rooms and world-class events and entertainment.

Birding There are more than 400 different bird species waiting to be found in Townsville North Queensland, from the relatively common great bower bird to the rare and intriguing southern cassowary. In a region flourishing with wet tropics rainforest, open woodland and coastal environments, bird watchers can enjoy a diverse range of bird habitats. From the fertile TYTO Wetlands in Hinchinbrook to the open woodland of the Townsville Town Common, the region is alive with the flutter, chirp and colour of some of the world’s most impressive birds.

Best Birding Locations:

Paluma For a pleasant change of climate and scenery, travel north along the Bruce Highway and turn left to Paluma. Little Crystal Creek and Big Crystal Creek are two popular swimming holes which offer the perfect place to cool off on a warm day. Big Crystal Creek, at the base of the Paluma Range, features a large swimming hole and picnic area, perfect for families and larger groups. Little Crystal Creek, located 11km up the winding road to Paluma Village, is best known for its historic stone arch bridge built in the 1930s. Cascading waterfalls feed into both locations and are some of the best freshwater swimming holes in the north.

Townsville Town Common TYTO Wetlands, Hinchinbrook Horseshoe and Lilliesmere Lagoons, Burdekin Paluma, Mount Spec National Park Magnetic Island National Park Charters Towers Weir Ross River Dam, Townsville Wongaloo Recreation Park, Burdekin

Townsville’s Northern Beaches Townsville’s northern beaches offer residents the ideal opportunity for a relaxing day out or a long secluded walk.

Townsville’s five northern beaches, 60km north of the city, combine the rugged bush with amenities and beachside getaways. Bushland, Saunders, Toolakea, Toomulla and Balgal Beaches offer fishing, swimming, picnicking and bird watching, combined with spectacular beachfronts.

TYTO Wetlands TYTO Wetlands is a unique 90-hectare natural wetland site home to over 240 species of birds and numerous tropical plant species, in addition to native Australian wildlife. Located in the township of Ingham, TYTO Wetlands is a carefully preserved natural environment that integrates lagoons, walking tracks and native flora.

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Parks and Gardens Townsville North Queensland has over 350 parks and open spaces that provide a range of recreational activities for locals. Superb botanic gardens and parklands are in abundance, including the world-class Palmetum, the historic Queens Gardens, Anderson Gardens, Dan Gleeson Memorial Gardens and the Townsville Environmental Park. There is also a number easily accessible National Parks on offer with a wide range of water sports, bird watching and bushwalking.

Castle Hill Just metres short of a mountain, Castle Hill is the giant pink granite monolith that proudly stands in the centre of Townsville – serving as the perfect place for visitors to orientate themselves with the city. Take the easy drive to the top for stunning panoramic views of Magnetic Island, Cleveland Bay, Townsville CBD and suburbs, and the Northern Beaches. Alternatively, challenge yourself and join the 2,000+ locals that run and walk up the Hill everyday – if you’re up for it.

The Strand Townsville’s famous foreshore, The Strand, is the perfect place to relax during your visit. Stretching 2.5km and offering views across Cleveland Bay to Magnetic Island, The Strand is a favourite for locals and visitors alike – it was voted as one of Australia’s Top Beaches by TripAdvisor in the 2017 Travellers’ Choice Awards. BBQ facilities, swimming enclosures, freshwater showers, a waterpark, playgrounds and waterfront dining makes The Strand a fun day out for the whole family.

Riverway Two huge swimming lagoons, playgrounds, parklands, a performance and arts centre and a sports stadium, all situated on the banks of the Ross River. The Riverway precinct is perfect for families looking to enjoy the great outdoor lifestyle that Townsville North Queensland is famous for.

Jezzine Barracks Located at northern end of The Strand, Jezzine Barracks holds special significance to the people of Townsville. The area has been redeveloped with a coastal path taking in magnificent views of Cleveland Bay and Magnetic Island and disability access to Kissing Point headland. Interpretive artwork, way points and lookouts also feature, as well as a walkway connecting the popular Strand with the far reaching Pallarenda beachfront.

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Northern Living

SS Yongala Wreck

Palm Island

The SS Yongala, once an ocean steaming vessel, is now an enchanting wreck, an artificial reef and home to an incredible array of marine life. Giant groupers, rays and schools of trevally congregate around the wreck, while turtles lazily feed and sea snakes glide past. In 1911 the ship sank without trace in a tragic cyclonic event, all 122 people on board died and a legend was born. It would be another 50 years before the coral encrusted structure was found. Today, the wreck is one of the world’s top dive sites and sits just off the coast of the Burdekin and is easily accessible by boat from Townsville, Magnetic Island and Alva Beach in the Burdekin.

Located 65km north-west of Townsville, Palm Island (or Great Palm) is the traditional country of the Manbarra people and, more recently, home of the Bwgcolman tribal people. Palm Island’s assets are its unique Indigenous heritage and its location within the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The pristine waters make it a great fishing spot – particularly for mackerel and coral trout. The Island is serviced regularly by passenger and vehicle ferries and is home to 2,413 people.

In 1911 the ship sank without trace in a tragic cyclonic event, all 122 people on board died and a legend was born. It would be another 50 years before the coral encrusted structure was found. Today, the wreck is one of the world’s top dive sites and sits just off the coast from the Burdekin and is easily accessible by boat from Townsville, Magnetic Island and Alva Beach in the Burdekin.

The Island is the largest within the Palm Group of Islands which also include Orpheus, Fantome (Eumilli), Curacoa (Noogoo), Barber (Boodthean), Esk (Soopun), Falcon Carbooroo), Eclipse (Garoogubbee), Brisk (Culgarool), Fly and Havannah.

The Island is the largest within the Palm Group of Islands which also include Orpheus, Fantome (Eumilli), Curacoa (Noogoo), Barber (Boodthean), Esk (Soopun), Falcon Carbooroo), Eclipse (Garoogubbee), Brisk (Culgarool), Fly and Havannah.

Magnetic Island Located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park just 8km off the coast of Townsville, Magnetic Island is the perfect tropical escape for a day, a week or a lifetime. With 23 beaches and bays, Magnetic Island has the natural beauty and serenity of untouched paradise within a thriving community. The rocky granite headlands fused with sheltered bays and beaches, studded with majestic hoop pine trees, create a dramatic coastline. Over two-thirds of the Island is protected as National Park, providing a haven for native wildlife, including rock wallabies, koalas, possums and over 100 species of birdlife.

The Island is serviced by 18 return passenger ferries and seven return vehicle ferry trips daily and is home to 2,412 people. As a suburb of Townsville, Magnetic Island has access to all of the conveniences of the mainland.

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Hinchinbrook Island Separated from the mainland only by the narrow Hinchinbrook Channel, the rugged peaks of Hinchinbrook Island National Park rise abruptly from the ocean, indicating the Island’s wild nature. Hinchinbrook Island has no permanent population. It is home to the world renowned wilderness walk, the Thorsborne Trail. Covering 32km, the Trail follows some of Australia’s most scenic island coastline. Discover sweeping bays, sandy beaches, extensive mangroves, fragile heaths, dense forests and lofty summits. This Island is also a favourite with locals for fishing and camping.

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Orpheus Island Orpheus Island National Park sits in the Palm Group of Islands, where you can either book into the luxury resort or set up a self-sufficient camp in one of the secluded camping areas.

Snorkel off the beach in blue-green reef waters to discover a marine wonderland or look and listen for birds in the forest and on the shore. Orpheus Island Research Station, run by James Cook University, is located on the western side with ready access to pristine inshore reefs and islands. A known 1,100 species of fish and 340 of the 350 known species of reef coral can be found in the underwater gardens of the surrounding reefs.

Gold Mining The region has a long history of gold mining stemming back to the original Gold Rush era when Charters Towers was widely referred to as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for it was deemed to have everything that a civilized man would ever need. While there are now a number of tourist attractions in Charters Towers that celebrate this history, commercial gold mining still occurs in the region.

Image by Megan MacKinnon

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Northern Living Housing Townsville offers a wide range of housing options to suit permanent residence or renting. From modern chic innercity apartments to traditional Queenslanders, Townsville has something to suit everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s requirements and budget.

Townsvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s housing affordability is exceptional in comparison to other mainland capital cities with average median house prices currently at $316,250 (REIQ, Q3, 2017). The median unit price currently stands at $236,500 for an established unit.

Median Property Prices Location

Units

Houses

Sydney

$715,000

$940,000

Canberra

$430,000

$655,000

Darwin

$400,000

$492,000

Perth

$390,000

$500,000

Melbourne

$520,000

$702,000

Brisbane

$410,000

$530,000

Adelaide

$375,000

$445,000

Hobart

$290,000

$390,000

Townsville

$235,000

$330,000

Source: REIQ QMM 2017 Q3 Issue 36

Image by Megan MacKinnon

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Employment Townsville North Queensland offers a diverse industry base, providing both a stable economic platform and a variety of employment opportunities. The main employment providers in the Townsville North Queensland region include Retail Trade, Health Care and Social Assistance, Public Administration and Safety, Manufacturing, Education and Training and Construction.

Skilled Migration The Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) is designed to assist employers in regional or low population growth areas of Australia who are unable to fill skilled vacancies through the local market. The Scheme provides an avenue for employers to sponsor skilled workers from overseas or temporary residents currently in Australia.

Growth Industries The largest increases in employment during 2015 were recorded in Health Care and Social Assistance, Public Administrative and Safety and Professional, Scientific and Technical Services. Employment declined in Manufacturing, Construction and Mining.

The Department of Employment’s report 2015 Employment Projections to November 2019 indicated that the largest growth areas will be in Health Care and Social Assistance, Retail Trade, Public Administration and Safety, Accommodation and Food Services and Transport, Postal and Warehousing.

Construction and Manufacturing will continue to be strong employers in the region however their growth will steady.

These sectors of employment and projected growth do not take into account the effect of ‘digital disruption’ which is expected to impact many jobs in the way work is done, work is replaced or what new jobs are created. The expectation is that a work force will need to be more technically aware across all sectors.

Main Employing Industries The Federal Governments Department of Employment recorded that the main employing industries for the Townsville North Queensland region were Health Care and Social Assistance, Retail Trade, Education and Training, Accommodation and Food Services and Construction (Dec 2016). This differs slightly within each area of the region as outlined below:

Local Government Area

Top four areas of employment

Townsville

Health Care and Social Assistance Public Administration Retail Education and Training

Charters Towers

Education and Training Health Care and Social Assistance Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing Retail

Burdekin

Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing Health Care and Social Assistance Administrative and Support Services Retail

Hinchinbrook

Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing Manufacturing Health Care and Social Assistance Retail

Image by Megan MacKinnon

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Northern Living Education, Training and Trades The Townsville North Queensland region is strengthening skilled labour through the numerous educational facilities available. From tertiary and vocational through to trades and training, courses are constantly evolving to address the shift in labour demand.

James Cook University James Cook University ( JCU) is Australia’s leading tropical research University and Queensland’s second oldest University. Offering excellence in teaching and research, JCU’s main Campus is based in Townsville with additional Campuses in Cairns, Brisbane and Singapore. Over 16,000 students, including 6,000 internationals of more than 100 nationalities, currently study at JCU. The University was established to conduct teaching and research on areas of importance to Northern Queensland and The Tropics. Its graduates have the expertise and intellectual curiosity to make a difference in their professions and their communities and conduct the research needed to meet the challenges facing the tropical world.

JCU’s activities have a strong focus on regional Queensland but its impact and reach are international, as recognised in the respected 2010 Shanghai Jiao Ton World University ranking system which placed JCU in the top 400 universities in the world. It is one of only two Queensland Universities to achieve this ranking.

CQUniversity CQUniversity’s presence in Townsville is continuing to grow with the launch of a new Townsville Campus in April 2015, which was in addition to the already established Distance Education Study Centre that launched in September 2014.

Study areas include Apprenticeships, Trades and Training, Business, Accounting and Law, Creative, Performing and Visual Arts, Education and Humanities, Engineering and Built Environment, Health, Information Technology and Digital Media, Psychology, Social Work and Community Services, Science and Environment, and Work and Study Preparation.

CQUniversity continues to be a leader in the delivery of distance education with approximately half the cohort made up of students studying by distance education. Compared to other Universities, CQUniversity is also proud to have the highest ratio of students from mature age, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, first-in-family and low socio-economic backgrounds.

Image by Megan MacKinnon

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TAFE Queensland North TAFE Queensland North provides vocational education and training to more than 14,700 local, interstate and international students annually. Students are enrolled in over 200 training programs ranging from Certificate through to Advanced Diploma level. The Institute also delivers training in traditional trade areas to more than 2,000 apprentices and trainees annually.

TAFE Queensland North currently works closely with business and organisations of all sizes across Northern Queensland to provide customised training options. Training in this mode can be delivered as accredited (nationally recognised) or non-accredited with most of this delivery occurring in the workplace.

Tec-NQ Tec-NQ is a leading educational and training organisation providing innovative and flexible solutions in Townsville North Queensland. As an independent school, a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and a Group Training Organisation (GTO) Tec-NQ delivers a holistic approach to trade training.

Tec-NQâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flagship school based program has helped hundreds of young people get their start in trade-based careers by delivering a contextualised Year 11 and 12 curriculum and developing the employability skills necessary to transition students from school to work.

State-of-the-art training facilities and workshops allow trainers to provide a simulated work environment and branches throughout remote Northern Queensland allow Tec-NQ to bring training to regional centres.

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Northern Living Schools and Childcare The Townsville North Queensland region offers an excellent choice of education and childcare facilities to suit your child’s needs and ensure close proximity to both home and work.

Parents will also have peace of mind knowing that their children have access to quality childcare and education facilities with options of over 110 childcare facilities, 69 primary schools and 18 secondary schools.

There are a number of boarding school facilities throughout the Townsville North Queensland region, including The Cathedral School of St Anne and St James, Townsville Grammar School, St Patricks College (girls), Blackheath & Thornburgh College (Charters Towers), All Souls St Gabriels School (Charters Towers) and Columba Catholic College (Charters Towers).

The Townsville North Queensland region offers a range of church based and non-denominational schools with highly renowned academic, cultural and sporting records.

Townsville Schools – Leading the Way With the National Broadband Network (NBN) rolling out across Townsville, schools are taking advantage of this high speed internet connection to transform the typical school day for students and staff. The Cathedral School of St Anne and St James was amongst the first schools in Australia to have a connection to the NBN and consequently now has access to superfast broadband. Since the introduction of the NBN, classrooms have experienced increased interactivity as well as increased learning opportunities for students, and improved job satisfaction for teachers. The Cathedral School has started to utilise video conferencing with 60 students recently experiencing a virtual tour of Questacon National Science Technology Centre and plans are in place to virtually visit the NASA facility.

Kirwan State High School is nationally recognised for its performance in sports and offers a range of ‘Sports Excellence Programs’. Pimlico State High School is highly regarded for achievements in the performing arts – particularly music.

In addition, a number of Townsville high schools align with international sister schools, to offer cultural experiences through international study tours and home stay programs.

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SECTION SPONSOR

Health and Welfare A range of health and welfare services is available across the Townsville North Queensland region with Townsville providing the largest proportion of services. Townsville offers both public and private hospital options.

The Townsville Hospital specialises in: Cardiac

Oncology

Obstetric

Mental health

Gynaecological

Neonatal

Aged Care Services

Paediatric

Allied health

Neurosurgical

Anaesthetic

Orthopaedic

Intensive care

Townsville North Queensland provides a great location to retire. Options for retirement and aged care living include independent living services, home care, residential aged care including dementia retirement living, hostel style accommodation and day respite care.

The Townsville Hospital is the major teaching hospital for James Cook Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Schools of Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health and for TAFE Queensland North. Maintaining a linkage with the local training facilities ensures that Townsville health services attach a continual influx of medical professionals to cater for the growing population.

The Hospital continues to expand with the first four stages of the $449M redevelopment project completed.

Disability Services Townsville and the wider region offer more than 20 support services to people with disabilities and their families. Some services are provided through a direct referral process with Disability Services (Department of Communities), whilst others offer a walk-in service.

In-home support

A $5M clinical training school Townsville Mater Hospital includes a simulated ward and resuscitation room with five mannequins. It also offers four tutorial rooms and a 120-seat conference centre. This training facility offers life-like work experience to keep medical students and graduates abreast of the latest technologies and procedures.

Outside of Townsville, Queensland Government Health Services have medical centres in Ingham, Ayr, Home Hill, Charters Towers, Palm Island and Magnetic Island each providing valuable services to the communities. Hospital services available include accident and emergency, general medical, surgical and obstetric and paediatric services while allied health services vary from each region to include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, medical imaging, dental, speech therapy, social work, pharmaceutical services and dietician.

Mobile attendant care program (medical, personal care) In-home flexible respite Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s therapy and early intervention services Accommodation support Community access Sports and recreation programs Employment support Advocacy Carers services

Support Services Transport services

There is a variety of support services that assists the Townsville North Queensland community to ensure patients are connected to their families whilst receiving treatment.

These include the Leukaemia Foundation, Australian Red Cross, Ronald McDonald House and Pastoral Care.

Mental health services Equipment sales and modifications, aids and appliances

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Northern Living Regions at a glance TOWNSVILLE POPULATION

AREA

192,113

3,733km2

Major Sports and Events: Supercars Townsville 400, Australian Festival of Chamber Music, North Queensland Cowboys, Townsville Fire, Townsville Running Festival, Groovin’ the Moo, PBR Iron Cowboy, North Queensland Elite Rodeo, Townsville Triathlon Festival, SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week, Strand Ephemera, Winter Racing Carnival, Townsville Cultural Festival, Glendi Festival Townsville, Paluma Push Mountain Biking Adventure, IslandLife Beach Festival and Full Moon Down Under, Townsville Billy Cart Dash for Variety, Adventurethon National Challenge, , Taste The North, New Year’s Eve - The Strand, 2018 Commonwealth Games Host City (basketball preliminaries) Major Tourism Assets: Magnetic Island, The Forts Walk, Great Barrier Reef, Castle Hill, The Strand, Jezzine Barracks, Cape Pallarenda, Cape Cleveland, Bowling Green Bay National Park, Paluma Range National Park, Botanic Gardens, Riverway, Townsville CBD, Reef HQ Great Barrier Reef Aquarium, Museum of Tropical Queensland, Queens

Gardens, Town Common Wetlands, Reid Park, Billabong Sanctuary, SeaLink Queensland, Fantasea Cruising Magnetic, Tour Townsville.

Major Health Services: Public Hospital, Private Hospital, Women’s Hospital and Birthing Centre, Cardiac, Obstetric, Gynaecological, Paediatric, Neurosurgical, Orthopaedic, Oncology, Mental Health, Neonatal, Radiology, Allied Health, Anaesthetic, Intensive Care, GPs. Major Industries: Agriculture, Defence, education, health, tourism, retail, services and manufacturing.

Education: James Cook University, CQUniversity, TAFE Queensland North, Tec-NQ, public and private early childhood, primary and senior schools and regional training organisations.

Newspaper: Townsville Bulletin Council: www.townsville.qld.gov.au

CHARTERS TOWERS POPULATION

AREA

DISTANCE FROM TOWNSVILLE

12,074

68,388km2

137km

Major Sports and Events: Goldfield Ashes, Heart of the Goldfields Rodeo, Towers Rocks, 10 Days in the Towers, Charters Towers Country Music Festival, Charters Towers Motor Show and Swap Meet,, Charters Towers Festival, Towers Rush.

Major Tourism Assets: Venus Gold Battery, Towers Hill Walking Track and Lookout, Self-Drive History Tour, Pan for Gold at the Miners Cottage, Texas Longhorn Wagon Tours and Safaris, Tors Drive-In Cinema, Ravenswood Heritage Walking Trails.

Major Health Services: Public Hospital, GPs and allied health services.

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Major Industries: Mining, beef and education.

Education: The Charters Towers region has a rich history of education excellence catering to day, boarding, distance and tertiary education at the local TAFE campus, giving rise to its status as the education centre of the west.

Newspaper: Northern Miner and North Queensland Register Council: www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au

SECTION SPONSOR

BURDEKIN POPULATION

AREA

DISTANCE FROM TOWNSVILLE

17,258

5,053km2

90km

Major Sports and Events: Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships, Burdekin Auto Festival Car and Bike Show, Burdekin Sugar Rush, Burdekin Readers’ and Writers’ Festival, Tastes of the Burdekin, Burdekin Water Festival.

Major Tourism Assets: The SS Yongala Wreck Dive, Burdekin River Bridge, Wetlands, Alva Beach, Plantation Park and Juru Aboriginal Walk, Claredale Pastures.

Major Health Services: Public Hospital, GPs and allied health services.

Major Industries: Agriculture, horticulture and aquaculture.

Newspaper: Ayr Advocate and Home Hill Observer Council: www.burdekin.qld.gov.au

HINCHINBROOK POPULATION

AREA

DISTANCE FROM TOWNSVILLE

10,990

2882km2

112km

Major Sports and Events: Australian Italian Festival, Recovery of the Great Barrier Reef

Major Industries: Agriculture, tourism, retail, services and manufacturing.

Major Tourism Assets: Hinchinbrook Island, Wallaman Falls, TYTO Wetlands and Parklands, Mungalla Station Aboriginal Tours, Fishing, Hinchinbrook Adventures, Crackajack Sportsfishing Adventures.

Education: Private and public primary and secondary schools and TAFE Queensland North.

Major Health Services: Public Hospital, GPs and allied health services

Newspaper: The Herbert River Express Council: www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au

PALM ISLAND POPULATION

AREA

DISTANCE FROM TOWNSVILLE

2,602

70.9km2

70km

Major Sports and Events: Palm Island Open Days, Palm Island Centenary 2018

islands and proximity to Great Barrier Reef.

Major Health Services: Public Hospital

Major Tourism Assets: Indigenous heritage, beautiful

Council: www.piac.com.au

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TOWNSVILLE ENTERPRISE

ABN: 58 053 020 536

Enterprise House 6 The Strand, Townsville Queensland, 4810 Australia Phone: Fax: Email:

+61 7 4726 2728 +61 7 4726 2700 tel@tel.com.au

townsvilleenterprise.com.au

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