opportunity townsville north queensland – edition 01
DESCRIPTION
Opportunity Townsville North Queensland is the core economic development document promoting the economic opportunities of the region. This comprehensive publication features three key reports: the Project Pipeline, a listing of all major development projects including those that are recently completed, under construction, in the short and medium term pipeline, or are still in the conceptual phase; the Economic Snapshot, offering a detailed statistical outline of the region’s economy; and Northern Living, a feature on the lifestyle of Townsville North Queensland.TRANSCRIPT
Major economic development initiatives
EDITION 01 | JULY 2015
Opportunity Townsville North QueenslandMajor economic development initiatives This publication has been prepared by Townsville Enterprise – Townsville North Queensland’s registered Economic Development Organisation, Regional Tourism Organisation and Convention Bureau.
Townsville Enterprise Limited ABN: 58 053 020 536
Office Enterprise House, 6 The Strand, Townsville
Mail PO Box 1043, Townsville QLD 4810
Phone +61 7 4726 2728
Fax +61 7 4726 2700 Email [email protected]
Web www.townsvilleenterprise.com.au
For more information on how to be involved in any of the initiatives featured in this guide contact the Townsville Enterprise Economic Development Team.
Front cover feature image by Megan MacKinnon
Published July 2015
At PwC, we believe our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We strive to be the catalyst for change. We do this by using our skills, position and relationships to work with others to make a difference and generate new ideas. We are passionate about creating new and unique industry perspectives and helping local business, including family businesses, grow and prosper in our region.
In partnering with Townsville Enterprise we are proud to support new thinking and provide a different perspective to the business community to generate economic growth in the Townsville North Queensland region.
This publication has been sponsored by:
001
CONTENTS
This document is compiled by Townsville Enterprise. 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.
Welcome Townsville Enterprise Townsville Enterprise Members Northern Australia What is Economic Development? Partners
Townsville City Townsville North Queensland Surrounding Regions
Townsville City Townsville North Queensland Surrounding Regions Short Term Pipeline Townsville City Townsville North Queensland Surrounding Regions Medium Term Pipeline Townsville City Townsville North Queensland Surrounding Regions Potential Pipeline Townsville City Townsville North Queensland Surrounding Regions Investment Ready Townsville City Townsville North Queensland Surrounding Regions KFSU Pentland Biofuels Project NQBE Integrated Energy Facility Dingo Park Charters Towers Meat Processing Facility
Investment Opportunity Townsville City Townsville North Queensland Hinchinbrook Habitats Arcadia Village Townsville North Rail Yards
Integrated Stadium and Entertainment Centre Townsville City Waterfront Priority Development Area Townsville City Townsville North Queensland Gross Regional Product Population Education Property Business Confidence State of the States Employment Export Market Tourism RPS Case Study: North Shore Master Planned Community RPS Case Study: Diatomaceous Earth Processing Facility Charters Towers Climate Sporting Arts, Culture and Events Dining, Entertainment and Shopping Transport and Infrastructure The Great Outdoors Housing Employment Education, Training and Trades Schools and Childcare Health and Welfare Regions at a Glance
002 004 005 006 008 009
012 017 017
020 026 027
030 032 032
033 037 038
040 042 044
048 048 049 050 051 052 053 054
055 055 056 057 058
062 063
064 064
071 073 075 076 078 079 080 082 084 086
087
090 090 091 092 093 094 098 099 100 102 103 104
SEEKING INVESTMENT
SEEKING FUNDING
PROJECT PIPELINE
ECONOMIC SNAPSHOT
NORTHERN LIVING
RECENTLY COMPLETED
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
002
In times of significant economic challenge, the Townsville North Queensland region is continuing to grow and to attract major development. Ours is a region of great drive, vision and potential.
Opportunity Townsville North Queensland tells the story of how this vision is coming to fruition.
It shows that Townsville North Queensland is a place that has the fundamentals right: industry diversity, population growth, and high quality infrastructure and services. It shows also that Townsville North Queensland is a place with great advantages: high class research institutions, leading technologies in agriculture and tropical science, and, perhaps most crucially, one of the most enviable lifestyles in Australia.
Each year more and more workers and their families are choosing to make the Townsville North Queensland region their home.
Now more than ever is the time to invest in and become part of our region. We are realising our vision as the most dynamic centre in Northern Australia.
It’s my pleasure to recommend Opportunity Townsville North Queensland. I look forward to partnering with you in the continued growth of Townsville North Queensland.
Cr Jenny Hill Mayor of Townsville
WELCOME
Image by Megan MacKinnon
003
Townsville North Queensland is a unique proposition for investment and prosperity.
Townsville is the 13th largest city in Australia, and by far the largest population base in Northern Australia. The region has one of the most diverse economies in regional Australia, is widely recognised as the commercial hub of Northern Australia and maintains an enviable lifestyle for residents and a stunning natural environment.
With a robust commercial base and an ambition for greater population, prosperity and progress Townsville North Queensland provides a wealth of opportunities to live, work, invest and develop.
This is proven by a number of significant and exciting investment decisions which have been recently announced:
• The acquisition of Domain Shopping Centre by the Queensland Investment Corporation for over $130 million;
• The investment of $214 million by the Sichuan Railway Investment Group into the Altona copper and gold mine, Little Eva at Cloncurry; and
• The decision by MMG to proceed with the $1.86 billion development of the Dugald River zinc project, also in the North West Mineral Province.
The region is proud of its economic heritage founded on a strong base of agriculture and resources, Australia’s largest military base, a port boasting a broad based trade profile and a world class university. To this foundation, Townsville continues to add growing strengths in industries including tourism, research, services and the recent addition of a second university.
Townsville North Queensland is not only a great place to do business, we are also incredibly proud of our unique culture – an inspiring sports scene with the North Queensland
Cowboys a key part of our community and home to Northern Australia’s only female professional sporting team of any discipline, the Townsville Fire; a tremendous events scene from the V8 Supercars to the Australian Festival of Chamber Music to a full Winter Racing Carnival at the Townsville Turf Club combined with a relaxed and friendly population and successful corporate community. We take full advantage of our amazing weather with an unrivalled tropical outdoor lifestyle.
It is no surprise strong population growth continues as does the region’s focus on sustainable development and liveability.
This guide to major opportunities outlines the plethora of successful projects recently delivered, those under construction and those in varying stages of development. It will be updated and republished bi-annually. If you wish to offer project details for inclusion in the next edition or require assistance to invest in the Townsville North Queensland region please get in touch with our team at [email protected]
Townsville Enterprise looks forward to working to support your successful project and facilitate investment into the Townsville North Queensland economy.
As always, we acknowledge the Members and Partners that support Townsville Enterprise in our objective to deliver for our growing region. It is only with the support of these members and partners that we can continue to deliver.
Tracey Lines General Manager Economic Development Townsville Enterprise Limited
Image by Megan MacKinnon
004
TOWNSVILLE ENTERPRISE KEY PRIORITIES
ADVOCACY
EVENTS
INFRASTRUCTURE
AVIATION
POLICY
INVESTMENTATTRACTION
MARKETING &COMMUNICATIONS
MEMBERSHIP
INDUSTRYDEVELOPMENT
Promoting North Queensland to achieve
sustainable economic and lifestyle benefits for the
region and Australia
Marketing and promoting the region to attract
new residents, new investment
and visitors
Attracting public and private sector funding for economic infrastructure
Working with key stakeholders to
attract investment for regional projects of
signficance
Developing key policy positions that affect the
growth and development of the region
Events development and acquisition
Supporting, promoting and advocating for
our members
Developing the tourism and events industry with a specific focus
on edutourism and cruise
Working with the Townsville Airport on the
attraction of domestic and international flights
Townsville Enterprise is the primary engine for economic development, charged with leveraging the region’s assets and strengths to drive jobs, growth, infrastructure investment and improve quality of life. It is an organisation determined to deliver for the Townsville North Queensland region and its people.
Townsville Enterprise represents the Townsville North Queensland region, which includes the five Local Government Areas of Townsville, Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook, the Burdekin and Palm Island, and is one of Australia’s true regional powerhouses.
As the local voice of industry and business it offers many targeted services, including running the Townsville North Queensland Emerging Leaders Program that mentors the region’s best and brightest young business people to achieve
their potential. It also host a range of corporate events bringing national and international speakers to the region.
In addition to its role as the peak Economic Development Organisation for the region, it is also the Regional Tourism Organisation and Convention Bureau for Townsville North Queensland. It is a not-for-profit, apolitical, membership based organisation, advised and influenced by a Board of Directors and Strategic Advisory Committees. The company’s mission is ‘To achieve sustainable economic and lifestyle benefits for Townsville, North Queensland and Australia.’
The valuable contribution of its Members makes it possible for Townsville Enterprise to advocate across a broad section of Government and industry sectors to secure funding, project approvals and policy support for essential infrastructure, investment and promotion of Townsville North Queensland.
TOWNSVILLE ENTERPRISE
005
PRINCIPAL PARTNER MAJOR PARTNER PLATINUM PARTNERS
GOLD PARTNERS
SILVER PARTNERS
BRONZE PARTNERS
LIFE MEMBERS
TOWNSVILLE ENTERPRISE MEMBERS
Incitec Pivot Limited
Townsville Catholic Education
Northern Management Group
A.E. Smith
CQ University - CQU
BAE Systems Australia
CCA (Coca-Cola Amatil)
Department of Defence
Stockland Development Pty Limited
Suncorp Bank
Australian Institute of Marine Science
Mike Carney Toyota
Crowe Horwath
Queensland Country Credit Union (QCCU)
Burdekin Shire Council
RPS
Hinchinbrook Shire Council
Honeycombes Property Group
Dexus Property Group: Willows Shopping Centre, Sunland Plaza, Cannon Park City Centre, Cannon Park Discount Centre
Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council
Hutchinson Builders
Lend Lease Engineering Pty Limited (ex AbiGroup)
North Qld Bulk Ports Corporation
TOLL Australia
John Bearne Greg Peel Alison Ferry Graham Jackson OAM Edward Scott AM Geoffrey Plante
+ 320 CORPORATE, TOURISM & EVENT / MICROBUSINESS AND RECIPROCAL MEMBERS
006
The greatest opportunity for the Townsville North Queensland region is the Northern Australia development agenda.
The White Paper on Developing Northern Australia has now been released, outlining a vision for Northern Australia to grasp its full potential and become an ‘economic powerhouse’. It recognises that a strong North means a strong Nation. This vision includes support for rapid population growth, aiming for an estimated four to five million people in Northern Australia by 2060. Actions to achieve this will roll out over two, five, 10 and 20 years.
The Federal Government’s recently released Northern Australia Infrastructure Audit shows Northern Australia accounts for 45% of Australia’s land mass, 5.6% of Australia’s population and 11.7% of Australia’s gross domestic product. Thus Northern Australia punches well above its weight in terms of national productivity. The region’s GDP contribution is increasing over time, so Northern Australia will become a proportionally larger part of the national economy.
The White Paper’s release was accompanied by $1.2B of committed funding. This is in addition to the previously announced $5B Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, which will provide concessional loans for the construction of major infrastructure such as ports, roads, rail, pipelines, electricity and water supply.
Townsville North Queensland is at the heart of the Northern Australia opportunity. The Government’s previously released Northern Australia Infrastructure Audit identifies infrastructure gaps that are critical to meeting population and economic growth opportunities. Significantly, under every scenario considered by the Federal Government in the Audit, not only does Townsville remain the largest urban centre, but it grows at a faster rate than both Cairns and Darwin. This development is predicted to come on the back of 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 economy.
NORTHERN AUSTRALIA
Image courtesy of Aurizon
007
This agenda will underpin Townsville Enterprise’s Economic Development focus in the coming year. Strong, united advocacy is vital to ensure our region is at the forefront of key infrastructure and policy commitments as Northern Australia’s future takes shape.
The Northern Australia Infrastructure Audit has identified 32 economic infrastructure gaps in Townsville North Queensland, covering roads, rail, energy, water, ports, airports and telecommunications. Townsville Enterprise will lead the region in a consultative process to identify the highest priorities of these gaps.
We will work with stakeholders to:
• Conduct a regional discussion for a consensus position on our infrastructure priorities.
• Develop a framework for assessing infrastructure gaps, with considerations such as readiness, economic and
employment impact, risks and constraints to determine the most appropriate sequencing of project delivery.
• Consider whether there are other economic infrastructure gaps overlooked by the Northern Australia Infrastructure Audit.
• Inform both Federal and State Governments and departments of our region’s local priorities.
• Actively work with the private sector to identify and attract potential partners to deliver the projects considered the region’s highest priorities.
The outcome will be a regional consensus on Townsville North Queensland’s infrastructure priorities supported by five Local Government Areas and the local business community, presenting a unified and informed case for growing the region’s economic strengths.
Image by Jacinta Lymburner
008
Economic development is the sustained, concerted actions of policy makers and communities that promote the standard of living and economic health of a specific area.
As the region’s peak economic development organisation, Townsville Enterprise is charged with leveraging the region’s assets and strengths to drive growth, infrastructure, investment and improving quality of life.
The underlying goal in all of our actions and priorities is growth in jobs. Growth in jobs results in a better standard of living for our population, a brighter future for our youth and a greater degree of business confidence which leads to more investment.
There are four main ways we can grow job numbers in the region – via business, development, government and population.
On the ground, this means if our region sees a mining project go ahead, our school leavers have a greater chance of securing apprenticeships. Local businesses have a greater chance of securing contracts for logistics or manufacturing or recruitment services. If a development approval is granted for a new precinct in the CBD, there will be more jobs for project managers, bobcat drivers and bricklayers in the short term and more jobs for marketing managers, chefs and refrigeration mechanics in the medium term.
The same results occur when the Federal Government invests in Defence spending in the region, the State Government commits funding to a construction project, or the region welcomes more international students. This flows through to more business for lawyers, real estate agents, beauticians and taxi drivers.
More jobs means not only more opportunities for our people it also delivers more taxes to Governments. As this happens, Governments are more able to invest in hospitals, universities, roads, schools and parks which all improve our way of life.
More profits for businesses in our region grow confidence, stimulating reinvestment and development activity. Thus we grow the pie and every business and indeed every individual has the potential to have a greater future and standard of living.
This is why Townsville Enterprise supports industry and investment. It is why profitable businesses are good news for all residents of Townsville North Queensland. And it is why every resident and student of Townsville North Queensland should support projects, developments and businesses in the region.
WHAT IS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT?
BUSINESSCommencing or
expanding, especially export businesses
DEVELOPMENTActivity leading toconstruction and
investment
GOVERNMENTSpending on
infrastructureprojects
POPULATIONGrowth via immigration,
tourism or student education
009
PARTNERS
Burdekin Shire Council
We work collaboratively with a number of agencies involved to varying degrees in economic development to deliver outcomes
for businesses, investors and projects in the region:
010Townsville City Aerial by Budd Photography
RECENTLY COMPLETED
At PwC, we believe our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We strive to be the catalyst for change. We do this by using our skills, position and relationships to work with others to make a difference and generate new ideas. We are passionate about creating new and unique industry perspectives and helping local business, including family businesses, grow and prosper in our region.
In partnering with Townsville Enterprise we are proud to support new thinking and provide a different perspective to the business community to generate economic growth in the Townsville North Queensland region.
This publication has been sponsored by:
011
Projects included in this report are those successfully delivered and operational in the 2013/14 and 2014/15 financial years.
In Townsville City alone, 44 projects have been successfully completed with a value of over $1.8B. This is a demonstration of the robust regional economy thriving in Northern Australia. Given that these projects represent both public and private investment in sectors ranging from industrial to social to retail,
the diversity of Townsville’s economy – which has historically been one of its major strengths – is set to continue.
Projects included in the Townsville subsection have a minimum value of $5M. Projects included in the Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook, Burdekin and Palm Island Shire subsections are considered to be of significance in the development of the local economy.
RECENTLY COMPLETED
In Townsville City alone, 44 projects have been successfully completed with a value of over $1.8B.
Image by Megan MacKinnon
012
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Ryan Catholic College Stage 1 Kirwan Townsville Catholic Diocese
A. Gabrielli Constructions 9.27 2015
New administration and teaching areas.
Southern Cross Catholic College Annandale Townsville Catholic Diocese
A. Gabrielli Constructions 7.92 2015
Secondary Stage 1.
Blackwood Street apartments Townsville CBD
Northern Management Group
– 12.5 06/15
33 unit apartment complex on Blackwood Street in the CBD.
Port of Townsville Berth 8 upgrade
South Townsville
Port of Townsville Limited, Glencore
Glencore 85.0 05/15
Expansion to accommodate a new bulk minerals ship loader. Part of the Inner Harbour Expansion project.
Beersheba Interim FacilitiesLavarack Barracks, Murray
Commonwealth Government FKG 12.5 05/15
Interim facilities and infrastructure for the relocation of 2 CAV Regiment from Darwin to Lavarack Barracks.
Townsville Hospital Expansion Stages 3 & 4 Douglas Queensland
Government Thiess 317.5 04/15
Clinical Support and Services Building, Cancer Care Centre expansion, Clinical Ward Block and Pathology Laboratory expansion.
Riverside Gardens Stage 2 DouglasBlue Sky Alternative Investments
– 15.0 04/15
Apartment complex featuring 100 one, two and three bedroom apartments. Stage 2 consists of 42 units.
Northern Stevedoring Services expansion
South Townsville
Northern Stevedoring Services
– 12.0 04/15
Construction of fully pressurised bulk storage facility at the Port of Townsville.
Rambutan Townsville Townsville CBD
Mutual Holdings Pty Ltd – 20.0 04/15
Three level high-end backpacker resort featuring accommodation and campervan facilities as well as a restaurant, bar, café and retail space.
RECENTLY COMPLETED
TOWNSVILLE CITY
Projects included in the Townsville subsection have a minimum value of $5M; projects included in the Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook, Burdekin and Palm Island Shire subsections are considered to be of significance in the development of the local economy.
013
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
St Margaret Mary's College expansion Hermit Park Commonwealth
Government – 5.0 03/15
Construction of three new buildings, with a senior campus block of classrooms, a junior campus block of classrooms and a new administration and flexible learning area.
Townsville Bulk Storage and Handling facility expansion
South Townsville
Townsville Bulk Storage and Handling
S&P Construction 15.5 02/15
Expansion of stevedoring facilities, including four new warehouses and a two level office building at the Port of Townsville site.
Cleveland Youth Detention Centre expansion
Belgian Gardens
Queensland Government Watpac 143.0 01/15
Extension of existing facilities, including new wing for female detainees.
Kirwan State High School Flying Start Building Kirwan Queensland
Government – 5.0 12/14
Expansion of facilities as part of Year 7 shift to high school campus.
Queensland Country Credit Union Aitkenvale Business Centre
Aitkenvale Queensland Country Credit Union
Perry McDonald Constructions
20.0 12/14
Two storey office building housing the QCCU headquarters along with other commercial space.
RAAF Base Townsville 100 Series building refurbishment Garbutt Commonwealth
GovernmentWatts Construction 5.0 12/14
Refurbishment of gutted vacant character buildings.
Blakey’s Crossing Bohle Queensland Government
BMD Constructions 19.5 11/14
Flood-proofing of road link between major industrial area and Townsville CBD.
Castlepoint Apartments Stage 1
Belgian Gardens
Blue Sky Alternative Investments
– 25.0 11/14
98 unit complex on Bundock Street. Stage 1 of 2 consists of 49 units.
Quest Townsville on Eyre North Ward Rest Assured – 25.0 11/14
Serviced apartment complex including 85 apartments, conference facilities, undercover car parking, swimming pool and barbecue area and gymnasium.
Melton Black Drive intersection upgrade Annandale Commonwealth
Government Lend Lease 12.6 10/14
Upgrade from roundabout to traffic lights.
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
014
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Jacana Apartments Stage 2 Kirwan Honeycombes
Property Group – 7.4 10/14
28 unit complex at Riverway in the Upper Ross.
Paddington Apartments Townsville CBD
Honeycombes Property Group – 14.8 10/14
44 unit complex in Flinders Street West.
Townsville General Hospital Sub-acute Facility Douglas
Commonwealth Government, Queensland Government, Townsville Hospital and Health Service
Watpac 22.5 10/14
45 bed facility including a geriatric evaluation and management unit and additional rehabilitation beds.
Central VillageTownsville CBD
Honeycombes Property Group
RCQ
Constructions18.0 09/14
Entertainment complex including 780-seat cinema plus dining and retail space.
City Lane and City ArcadeTownsville CBD
Lancini Group
Lancini Group 5.0 09/14
CBD dining and retail precinct between Flinders and Sturt Streets.
Allure ApartmentsSouth Townsville
South Townsville Developments
Hutchinson Builders
11.0 05/14
Mixed development of serviced apartments and owner-occupied units with attached hospitality space. Located in the Palmer Street dining precinct.
Riverside Gardens Stage 1 DouglasBlue Sky Alternative Investments
– 15.0 05/14
Apartment complex featuring one, two and three bedroom apartments. Stage 1 consists of 30 units out of a planned 100.
Jezzine Barracks redevelopment North WardTownsville City Council
– 40.0 03/14
Community park and heritage precinct on the Jezzine Barracks former defence site.
Bunnings Warehouse North Shore North Shore Wesfarmers – 28.0 12/13
Hardware store in the Northern Beaches suburbs.
RECENTLY COMPLETED
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
015
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Clinical Practices Building DouglasJames Cook University
Hansen Yuncken
45.0 12/13
Five level mixed use building with allied health and dental training facility, hospital training facility and ground floor retail. Part of JCU’s Discovery Rise Project.
Douglas Reservoir 1B DouglasTownsville City Council
– 9.7 12/13
Construction of a second major water reservoir in Douglas.
Townsville Solar City Townsville
Commonwealth Government, Queensland Government
– 30.0 12/13
Solar power project rolled out around Townsville as part of the ‘Solar Cities’ program, with Magnetic Island designated a ‘solar suburb’.
Jacana Apartments Stage 1 KirwanHoneycombes Property Group
RCQ
Constructions10.5 11/13
41 unit complex at Riverway in the Upper Ross.
Townsville Distribution Precinct Roseneath
Townsville Distribution Precinct
– – 11/13
40 freehold allotments as part of a transport warehousing and distribution development.
Woolcock and Mather Streets intersection upgrade Garbutt
Queensland Government
– 10.0 11/13
Upgrade of major intersection.
Kirwan adolescent mental health in-patient unit Kirwan
Queensland Government
JM Kelly 12.5 11/13
Mental health in-patient and day unit service.
Coles Thuringowa Central Kirwan WesfarmersADCO Constructions
16.5 10/13
Shopping centre precinct anchored by a Coles supermarket on the corner of Thuringowa Drive and Dalrymple Road.
Enhanced Land Force Stage 1Lavarack Barracks, Murray
Commonwealth Government
– 385.0 10/13
New working accommodation for the 3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (3 RAR) and upgrade of associated infrastructure including SQN 3/4 Cavalry Regiment, messes, medical centre, training areas and simulators and base infrastructure.
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
016
RECENTLY COMPLETED
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Northside Square Stages 1 and 2 Deeragun
Honeycombes Property Group
– 11.8 10/13
Retail precinct featuring veterinarian, gymnasium and showrooms.
Port of Townsville Berth 10 reconstruction
South Townsville
Port of Townsville Limited
– 85.0 10/13
Reconstruction to accommodate military and commercial vessels, as well as providing cruise ship terminal facilities. Part of the Inner Harbour Expansion project.
420 on Flinders Townsville CBD
Lancini Group, Nothern Management Group
– 40.0 09/13
Nine level commercial tower.
Lavarack Barracks Single Leaving Environment and Accommodation Precinct Phase 2 (LEAP)
Lavarack Barracks, Murray
Commonwealth Government, Plenary Living Pty Ltd
Watpac 117.0 07/13
542 residential unit campus at Lavarack Barracks. Includes recreation pavilions, barbecue areas and a car wash point.
Community Rehab NQ Belgian Gardens
Queensland Government, Commonwealth Government
– 13.75 06/13
Rehabilitation service based in Townsville with outreach to Mount Isa, as well as undertaking research projects and providing training to students.
NQN House Townsville CBD
Honeycombes Property Group – 6.7 06/13
Three level, A grade office building in the Flinders Street West precinct, housing the Townsville campus of the CQUniversity as well as offices for the Townsville Bulletin.
Verde Commercial Tower Townsville CBD
Flinders Street Tower
Hutchinson Builders 75.0 06/13
12-storey office tower with 11,000sqm commercial space, including disaster management centre and sustainability features.
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
017
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
NDRRA Road Restoration Program
Charters Towers
Commonwealth Government – 47.7 2015
Restoration of roads under the National Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements program.
Sandy Boyd Creek cleaning project Palm Island
Queensland Government, Palm Island AbShire Council
– 1.13 05/2015
Cleaning, relining and and reinforcing of Sandy Boyd Creek.
Charters Towers Hospital upgrade
Charters Towers
Queensland Government – 2.7 12/14
Upgrade of Charters Towers Hospital.
Trade Training Centre Development
Charters Towers
Commonwealth Government – 9.2 08/14
State-of-the-art trade training facility located at the Airport Reserve.
KFSU Ayr, Burdekin Shire
KFSU – –12/14
Establishment of processing facilities to produce patented natural food additives Phytocel™ and Kfibre™ from sugar cane. Capacity of 1,300 tonnes per annum.
Mosman Street - Towers Hill Recreation Corridor
Charters Towers CBD
Queensland Government, Charters Towers Regional Council
– 1.3 07/14
Recreation infrastructure, including a walking track, in the Mosman Creek corridor.
Palm Island floating pontoon Palm Island
Commonwealth Government, Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council, Queensland Government, SeaLink QLD
Pacific Marine Group 1.5 06/14
Upgrade of the jetty to a floating pontoon to allow for all tidal access.
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Diamantina Power Station Mount Isa AGL Energy, APA Group – – 12/14
242MW combined-cycle gas turbine power plant. Additional 60MW open-cycle power available via the Leichhardt Power Station on an adjacent site.
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND
SURROUNDING REGIONS
018City Lane, Townsville
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
At PwC, we believe our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We strive to be the catalyst for change. We do this by using our skills, position and relationships to work with others to make a difference and generate new ideas. We are passionate about creating new and unique industry perspectives and helping local business, including family businesses, grow and prosper in our region.
In partnering with Townsville Enterprise we are proud to support new thinking and provide a different perspective to the business community to generate economic growth in the Townsville North Queensland region.
This publication has been sponsored by:
019
Projects in this report include those under construction at time of publication.
At present, there are 44 projects in Townsville worth a value of over $4.2 billion. The wide range of industries these projects fall into are a reflection of Townsville’s diverse economy.
Government continues to recognise the importance of North Queensland, with almost $1 billion of publicly funded projects underway. Investment in Defence accounts for $200
million, with James Cook University responsible for a further $111 million on two building projects at the Douglas campus. Townsville is also undergoing major road upgrades, with key projects accounting for $377.5 million of a total $392.1 million in infrastructure spending.
Continued population growth has further fuelled Townsville’s expansion in residential development. Over 20 new estates account for almost $3.37 billion of investment, with $1.5 billion of this in the Northern Beaches growth corridor.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
PROJECTS UNDER CONSTRUCTION
LARGEST INDUSTRY SECTORS
FUNDINGSOURCE
AGED CARE
$40.0M
DEFENCE
$200M
EDUCATION
$111.0M
HOSPITALITY
$17.5M
INFRASTRUCTURE
$392.1M
RESIDENTIAL
$3.37B
RETAIL
$69.5M
SPORT AND RECREATION
$42.1M
INDUSTRIAL
$20.0M
997M 3.26B
020
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Carinity Fairfield Waters Aged Care Facility Stage 1 Idalia Carinity Carmichael
Builders 22.0 10/15
Integrated facility, including three storey 96 bed aged care facility and 65 independent living units.
Glendale Aged Care Facility Mount Louisa Glendale Care – 18.0 08/15
Construction of 90 bed facility to provide 40 high care and 50 low care rooms with ensuites. To include foyer, reception, lounge and dining, kitchen, library, meeting room, consulting room, staff rooms and hydrotherapy spa.
AIR 9000 Phase 5C Chinook Replacement Facilities Garbutt Commonwealth
Government Lend Lease 54.8 06/17
Facilities and supporting infrastructure for the new F Model Chinook Medium Lift Helicopter. Includes simulator building, maintenance hangars, workshop and accommodation facilities.
Defence Logistics Transformation Project
Lavarack Barracks, Murray
Commonwealth Government Lend Lease 145.2 05/16
Logistics facilities and infrastructure upgrade including new administrative storage and maintenance facilities for North Queensland Joint Logistics Unit.
Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine Douglas
James Cook University, Commonwealth Government, Queensland Government
Watpac 31.0 03/16
Construction of tropical health research facility on JCU Douglas Campus. To include biological facilities, specialist laboratory support spaces and offices.
The Science Place Douglas James Cook University – 80.0 12/16
Construction 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.
Breakwater Marina expansion North Ward Breakwater Pacific – 6.0 12/16
Extension of marina (115 berths) and entry channel dredging to allow larger yachts (to be completed 2015). Over-water restaurant and bar, dedicated marina administration and function and events facility also being built, along with additional commercial and retail space.
TOWNSVILLE CITY
This report includes projects valued at $5M or greater. Projects are listed by their industry category. Townsville North Queensland includes the Burdekin Shire, Charters Towers Region, Hinchinbrook Shire and Palm Island Shire. Surrounding Regions refer to Queensland regions from Gladstone north, reflecting the Queensland component of Northern Australia.
TOWNSVILLE CITY
021
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Cowboys Leagues Club renovation
Townsville CBD
Cowboys Leagues Club
Hutchinson Builders 6.5 2015
Addition of ‘Coffee Club’ and woodfire pizza cafe, as well as refurbishment of the existing restaurant. Commercial office space to be opened on the upper level of the building.
Townsville RSL expansion Hermit Park Townsville RSL Jackson + Semler 5.0 2016
Multi-staged expansion onto neighbouring property. Will include a new sports bar, children’s room and bistro area as well as expanded function room capacity.
Webb Drive Industrial Estate Stage 4B Bohle BM Webb Group – 20.0 12/16
Civil works for next stage of Webb Drive subdivision.
Bruce Highway Southern Access Corridor Stage 1 Stuart
Commonwealth Government, Queensland Government
– 137.5 2015
Upgrade to Bruce Highway from Vantassel Street to Cluden, improving flood immunity, expanding to four lane dual carriageway, plus a rail overpass.
Townsville Ring Road Stage 4Outer Northern Suburbs
Commonwealth Government, Queensland Government
Seymour White 200.0 06/17
Final 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 north-west, connecting to the Bruce Highway near Mt Low Parkway.
Northern Beaches Community Centre and Cyclone Shelter Burdell
Commonwealth Government, Stockland Developments Pty Ltd
– 7.5 12/15
Commonwealth funding to upgade community centre to withstand a Category 5 cyclone.
Dalrymple Road Bridge Bohle
Commonwealth Government, Townsville City Council
– 40.0 2016
Construction of two lane bridge with 3.5m lanes in each direction totalling aproximately 450m. Includes shared pathway for cyclists and pedestrians and channelling works including drains and culverts.
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
022
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Howitt and Rose Streets stormwater system upgrade North Ward
Townsville City Council, Queensland Government
– 7.1 06/15
Flood mitigation project at flood prone intersections with renewal of drainage infrastructure.
Bluewattle Estate RasmussenDefence Housing Australia
– 262.0 2024
1,300 lot housing estate in Rasmussen. 430 housing lots to be built for Defence, with the remaining 870 lots developed for sale to the general public.
River Parks Kelso Devine – 350.0 12/17
72ha residential development containing 900 lots.
The Village OonoonbaEconomic Development Qld
– 180.0 2021
83ha residential development with plans for approximately 1,000 homes. Stages 1 - 4 and 6 completed.
Aurora Mount Louisa Elements NQ – 10.0 2018
Residential development in Mount Louisa.
Altira Mount Louisa Elements NQ – 45.0 2035
Residential development on elevated land, behind the ElementsNQ developed Greenview Estate. Stage 2 currently being completed.
Mount Margaret Estate Rupertswood Hobson Constructions – 280.0 2025
850 lot residential development catering to larger sized lots. Currently developing Stage 3.
Picadilly Apartments Stage 1 Townsville CBD
Honeycombes Property Group
RCQ Construction 13.5 03/16
38 unit apartment complex on Flinders Street West.
Fairways Residential Estate Rosslea Ingenta – 56.0 2017
225 lot housing development on the grounds of the Townsville Golf Club. Currently completing Stage 3 out of nine stages.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
023
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Kalynda Chase Estate Bohle Plains Lancini Group, Urbex – 257.0 2017
1,500 lot residential estate, including community and sporting amenities, extensive parkland and commercial centre.
Park Residential Estate JensenMaidment Development Group
– 40.0 2017
144 lot residential estate.
Sanctum Residential development Mount Low
Maidment Development Group
– 200.0 12/20
Master planned estate with associated community infrastructure.
Melton Terrace units Townsville CBD
Northern Management Group
Phoenix Constructions 11.5 2015
30 unit complex in the Townsville CBD.
Oak Tree Retirement Village RasmussenOak Tree Retirement Villages
– 20.0 2017
77 villa retirement complex in the Upper Ross. Stage 1 completed with Stage 2 currently under construction.
Cosgrove Masterplanned Community Mount Louisa Parkside
Developments – 250.0 –
2,100 lot residential development including retail, commercial and park facilities as well as a school.
Greater Ascot Residential Development Bohle Parkside
Developments – 210.0 2030
2,000 lot residential development in northern suburbs of Townsville, with a town centre and school.
Libertyrise Estate Mount Louisa Parkside Developments – 53.0 2025
530 lot residential development.
Willowbank Estate Kirwan Parkside Developments – 11.0 2020
110 lot residential development.
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
024
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Springbank Urban Village Idalia Pointcorp – 70.0 08/15
202 residential unit development with combined facilities.
Northern Beaches Masterplanned Community Burdell
Stockland Development Pty Ltd
– 1,000.0 2030
5,400 lot residential development with 50ha sub-regional town centre.
Bushland Park Estate Bushland Beach
Townsville Earthmoving – 17.0 12/16
Residential estate in the Northern Beaches suburb of Bushland Beach.
Forest Shores Estate Bushland Beach
Townsville Earthmoving – 15.0 12/15
Residential estate in the Northern Beaches suburb of Bushland Beach.
North Beach Estate Mount Low Townsville Earthmoving – 18.0 12/17
Residential estate in the suburb of Mount Low.
North Ward Shopping Village expansion North Ward Brustone Pty Ltd Hutchinson
Builders 18.0 2015
Expansion to include a latest concept Coles supermarket as well as additional specialty shops and parking facilities.
Homemaker Centre Stage 1 Idalia Griffin Group Phoenix Constructions 16.0 –
Development of a 32,000sqm bulk goods retail centre, adjacent to Bunnings Warehouse at Fairfield Waters.
Fairfield Central Stage 2 IdaliaLancini Property & Development, Fairfield Land
Lancini Group, Hutchinson Builders
35.5 2016
Expansion of shopping centre, including a Reject Shop completed in 2014 and a Kmart department store to be completed in 2015 and an expansion of the existing Woolworths store to be completed in 2016.
Townsville Golf Club redevelopment Rosslea Townsville Golf
Club – 10.0 08/16
Course reconfiguration, designed by Karrie Webb and Bob Harrison, plus the construction of new facilities including a clubhouse, irrigation facility and a greenskeeper shed. Clubhouse to be operational from August 2016.
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
025
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Townsville Recreational Boating Park Stages 1 & 2 Railway Estate
Townsville City Council, Queensland Government
Townsville City Council 25.0 06/17
Construction of a new all-tide boating facility, featuring 16 boat ramp lanes, four floating walkways, two pontoons and additional car and trailer parking facilities. Total includes $6.3M of capital works.
Townsville Turf Club redevelopment Cluden Queensland
GovernmentEpoca Constructions 7.1 2015
Upgrade including reinforced sand profile track to better handle all weather, renovations to machinery shed and workshop and upgrades to facility access.
Asphalt Plant and Transport Depot Roseneath Fulton Hogan Perry
McDonald – 09/15
Shifting of operations from the Bohle to Roseneath, including construction of a new asphalt plant
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
026
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Burdekin River Bridge maintenance
Burdekin Shire
Queensland Government – 43.8 2015
Structural rehabilitation and maintenance over five years.
Forrest Beach water security project
Hinchinbrook Shire
Hinchinbrook Shire Council – 2.6 –
Construction of a 12km water main from Ingham to secure water supply for the growing Forrest Beach population.
Greenvale Silicon Pty Ltd Charters Towers
Greenvale Silicon Pty Ltd – 90.0 02/17
Diatomaceous earth processing plant for production of non synthetic soil/plant health/growth/promotant fertiliser for local, state, interstate and overseas distribution. Raw materials mined in Greenvale and transported to the site by road. Anticipated output per annum of 1M tonnes.
Kernow development Charters Towers
Tarlton Property Australia
Can NQ Pty Ltd 5.0 2017
Master planned community of 410 dwellings of various types. Includes a redevelopment of existing buildings, new buildings, land blocks and lifestyle facilities including a recreational lake. Phase 1 is currently under construction with the first units available for occupation by July 2015.
Rodeo Drive Subdivision Palm Island
Commonwealth Government, Queensland Government, Palm Island Aborigianl Shire Council
Hutchinson Builders, Mendi Constructions
14.7 2015
59 lot housing development as part of the Commonwealth Government ‘Closing the Gap’ initiative.
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND
027
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT BUILDER INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Lakeland solar farm Cooktown Lyon Infrastructure – 60.0 2015
26MW Solar PV farm.
Weipa housing project Weipa Bowen Basin Contractors – 120.0 2018
Gated 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.
Curtis Island LNG plants Gladstone
Australian Pacific LNG, Gladstone LNG, Queensland Curtis LNG
Bechtel 70B 2016
Construction of three liquefied natural gas plants on Curtis Island off Gladstone. The separately owned plants are all being constructed by Bechtel.
Cairns Hospital redevelopment Cairns Queensland Government – 454.6 2015
Redevelopment to provide 168 additional beds as well as refurbished facilities and improved services.
SURROUNDING REGIONS
028Townsville City by Megan MacKinnon
GIVE TOWNSVILLE
PROJECT PIPELINE
At PwC, we believe our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We strive to be the catalyst for change. We do this by using our skills, position and relationships to work with others to make a difference and generate new ideas. We are passionate about creating new and unique industry perspectives and helping local business, including family businesses, grow and prosper in our region.
In partnering with Townsville Enterprise we are proud to support new thinking and provide a different perspective to the business community to generate economic growth in the Townsville North Queensland region.
This publication has been sponsored by:
029
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 fully 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 and have 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 taking place 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 shed light on the future of the region.
Across each of these sections, the continued confidence in the growth of Townsville North Queensland is evident. With proximity to key national and international economic zones driving population growth, the coming years are set to see further investment in residential developments as well as the hospitality and retail offerings to service this expanded population. Major investment in tertiary education will strengthen the region’s label as a key knowledge hub in The Tropics, while the region will also continue to be of strategic significance to the Defence sector.
In addition to exhibiting key upcoming developments, this report is designed to highlight the future direction of Townsville North Queensland over the coming decades. This is not just to spark community curiosity; it is hoped this will inform your business of the city’s development and assist with business decisions and opportunities.
COLONIAL LEISURE GROUP TO OVERHAUL JUPITERS CASINOFollowing the purchase of Jupiters Townsville Hotel & Casino in 2014, Colonial Leisure Group has unveiled its plans to invest $30M as part of rebranding the facility to ‘The Ville’.
Colonial Leisure Group owns 20 premium hospitality venues in three Australian states. Its plan for the Townsville resort is part of a $200M investment in the Townsville North Queensland tourism industry. This has seen the company acquire and upgrade Orpheus Island resort, ‘Orpheus’, Mt Mulligan Station, the Daintree Eco-Lodge & Spa, luxury yacht Flying Fish and Nautilus Aviation.
In addition to a redesign of the casino gaming floor and property refurbishment, the investment will expand the hotel’s upmarket food and bar offerings, with a tropical feel and focus on its ocean front position.
TOWNSVILLE AIRPORT PTY LTD TO REDEVELOP TERMINALTownsville Airport has announced its plans for a $40M upgrade of the Townsville Airport. This significant investment comes on the back of its international status being reinstated earlier in 2015.
The overhaul of the terminal will include a reconfiguration of the international departure lounge, the addition of airline lounge facilities, food and retail outlets and expansion of security facilities, as well as corporate enhancements.
This major investment will address capacity constraints and ensure the facility can meet the growth of the Townsville North Queensland region.
PROJECT PIPELINE
MAJOR DEVELOPMENT PROFILES
030
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Townsville Grammar School North Shore campus North Shore Townsville Grammar
School 7.0 2016
Construction of education facilities for Prep to Year 3 students.
Astaxanthin Project Douglas MBD Energy 10.0 12/15
Industrial scale micro algae production facility to produce an algae high in Astaxanthin to be sold on to a chemical and nutrition company.
The Ville Casino redevelopment Townsville Colonial Leisure Group 30.0 2017
Redevelopment of Jupiters Townsville Hotel & Casino as part of a business rebranding. To include additional restaurant and hotel facilities to create an entertainment precinct.
Townsville Airport upgrade Garbutt Queensland Airports Ltd 40.0 2017
Expansion 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.
Echlin Street Reservoir West End Townsville City Council 9.1 2017
Construction of a new reservoir to service the CBD as part of the $43M CBD utilities upgrade program.
Magnetic Island Waste Transfer StationCockle Bay, Magnetic Island
Townsville City Council 9.27 2017
Waste transfer station to replace the existing Picnic Bay landfill.
Mt Louisa Reservoir Mt Louisa Townsville City Council 5.52 2016
New 22ML water storage reservoir in Mount Louisa.
Storm water drains Townsville Townsville City Council 38.68 2017
Storm water drains from new subdivisions as part of Townsville City Council capital works program.
Subdivision roads Townsville Townsville City Council 64.46 2017
Roads from new subdivisions as part of Townsville City Council capital works program.
This report includes projects valued at $5 million or greater within the Townsville City area. Projects are ranked in alphabetical order of Sector. Townsville North Queensland refers to the Burdekin Shire, Charters Towers Region, Hinchinbrook Shire and Palm Island Shire. ‘Surrounding Regions’ refers to Queensland regions from Gladstone north, reflecting the Queensland component of Northern Australia.
PROJECT PIPELINE
SHORT TERM PIPELINE
TOWNSVILLE CITY
031
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Water infrastructure to new subdivisions Townsville Townsville City Council 25.4 2017
Water infrastructure connection to subdivision lots as part of Townsville City Council capital works program.
Willows Shopping Centre expansion Stages 1 and 1a Kirwan Dexus Property Group 90.0 2017
Expansion of shopping centre with additional 11,000sqm of retail space, which will include a Harris Scarfe department store and a new mini-major, plus around 35 speciality stores, a modernised Woolworths supermarket and a fresh food precinct. Additional basement and rooftop parking also part of the development.
North Shore Homemaker Centre North Shore Elwood Property Group 14.0 –
Retail, commercial and entertainment hub for the northern beaches suburbs.
Woolworths CBD development Townsville CBD
Lancini Property & Development 25.0 2016
Relocation and expansion of CBD Woolworths store to full line facility with specialty stores. Construction to commence following clearing of site.
Greater Ascot Town Centre Stage 1 Bohle Parkside Development 10.0 2018
Stage 1 of town centre for the Greater Ascot residential development.
Castlepoint Apartments Stage 2 Belgian Gardens
Blue Sky Alternative Investments 25.0 03/16
98 unit complex on Bundock Street, second and final stage consists of 49 units.
Riverside Gardens Stage 3 Douglas Blue Sky Alternative Investments 15.0 06/16
Apartment complex to feature 100 one, two and three bedroom apartments. Stage 3 consists of 38 units. Construction expected to commence late 2015.
Fulton Gardens Unit development North Ward CPR Townsville 65.0 06/16
27 ‘core and shell’ style unit development on the grounds of the former Townsville General Hospital. Complex to include pool, gym, car park, home office facilities and landscaped grounds.
The Edge Aitkenvale Ellis Developments, Stockland 22.0 2016
72 dwelling development adjacent to the Aitkenvale Stockland shopping centre.
West End housing development West End Ellis Developments 60.0 2019
Residential estate featuring a mixture of house, townhouse and adjoining unit lots. Development to include parkland.
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
032
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Piccadilly Apartments Stage 2 Townsville CBD
Honeycombes Property Group 14.3 01/17
41 one, two and three bedroom apartments in the central precinct of Flinders Street West.
Aitkenvale unit complex Aitkenvale Parkside Development 20.0 09/16
56 unit complex.
Veer Apartments North Ward PDS QLD 11.0 06/16
Eight unit complex with dining and retail space on The Strand.
Rasmussen residential estate Rasmussen Wingate Properties 85.0 –
1,400 lot residential estate.
Port of Townsville Berth 4 upgrade South Townsville Port of Townsville 40.0 2017
Upgrade of Berth 4 to accommodate Panamax size general cargo vessels in combinations with the development of a general cargo terminal.
PROJECT PIPELINE
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine Cairns facility Cairns James Cook University 25.5 2017
Construction expected to commence end of 2015.
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Palm Island power station Palm Island Queensland Government 18.0 –
New diesel power station, built to accommodate possible future renewable energy innovations, to replace the current aged facility and meet future demand.
TOWNSVILLE CITY
SURROUNDING REGIONS
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND
SHORT TERM PIPELINE – CONTINUED
033
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
CBD accommodation complex Townsville CBD DPS QLD 60.0 –
Complex featuring mixture of short and long term accommodation units along with office and retail space.
JCU Student Accommodation Douglas James Cook University 65.0 –
500 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.
Student Apartments Douglas Anglican Church - St Mark’s Projects 20.0 –
120 student apartments to be constructed at St Mark’s College.
Aged Care facility Douglas McKenzie Aged Care 20.0 –
140 high-care bed facility with training links to James Cook University.
Carinity Aged Care Facility Stages 2-5 Idalia Carinity 33.0 –
Expansion to include 65 independent living units.
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
JCU Cairns Campus student accommodation Cairns James Cook University 30.0 2015
300-bed on-campus accommodation facility.
Nova8 Cairns Aspial Corporation 400.0 –
Seven tower development featuring residential and commercial space. The first tower will be 17 storeys and contain 208 apartments and 12 townhouses.
Dugald River mine Cloncurry MMG 1,860.0 –
Development of base metals mine, with production expected to reach approximately 1.5Mtpa of ore and produce 160,000 tonnes of zinc over a 28 year mine life.
Toowoomba Grand Central redevelopment Toowoomba QIC 500.0 2017
Redevelopment and expansion of the Grand Central CBD shopping centre.
MEDIUM TERM PIPELINE
TOWNSVILLE CITY
SURROUNDING REGIONS (CONTINUED)
034
PROJECT PIPELINE
TOWNSVILLE CITY
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Good Shepherd Home refurbishment Annandale The Good Shepherd Home –
Redevelopment of existing aged care accommodation and construction of a new 60 bed facility.
Riverway retirement resort Condon Parkside Development 100.0 2018
540 home retirement complex with 120 high-care nursing facility.
Civic Theatre refurbishment Railway Estate Townsville City Council 9.72 2017
Upgrade of theatre facilities.
Charters Towers Road development Hermit Park EKN Prop Ltd 2016
8306sqm site with mixed use plans. Stage 1 planned as a stand-alone childcare centre. Planning underway for remainder of development.
AIR 5431 Phase 2&3 - Defence Air Traffic Management System and ADF Air Traffic Control Complex Infrastructure project
RAAF Base Townsville
Commonwealth Government –
New Air Traffic Control tower, Airfield Systems building and Radar facilities.
AIR 7000 Phase 2B - Maritime Patrol Aircraft Replacement project
RAAF Base Townsville
Commonwealth Government –
Facilities 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 Ordnance Loading Aprons.
LAND 121 Phase 3 - replacement of the current fleet of Australian Defence Force Field Vehicles, Modules and Trailers
Lavarack Barracks, RAAF Base Townsville
Commonwealth Government –
Provision of facilities and infrastructure to accommodate new vehicle fleet.
RAAF Base Townsville Mid-Term Refresh
RAAF Base Townsville
Commonwealth Government –
Upgrade and refurbishment of existing facilities and infrastructure.
Discovery Rise Douglas James Cook University 1,200.0 –
Multi-stage community precinct to be rolled out over 20 years. Plans include a mix of residential units, serviced apartments and student accommodation with commercial space for services such as private health, hospitality businesses and knowledge based industry. Clinical Practices Building is the first development, with Expressions of Interest now open for a ‘cornerstone building’.
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
MEDIUM TERM PIPELINE – CONTINUED
035
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Marine & Aquaculture Research Facilities Unit
Douglas, Townsville CBD
James Cook University 100.0 –
Contemporary marine and aquaculture research complex.
Southern Cross Catholic College Stage 2 Annandale Townsville Catholic Diocese 6.0 –
Expansion of secondary school facilities.
Private mental health clinic Townsville CBD
Healthe Care Australia, Urbane Pty Ltd 7.5 –
Construction of a private mental health facility on Wills Street.
Townsville Mater Hospital redevelopment Pimlico Mater Health Services 2017
Consolidation of the Mater Hospital’s acute facilities to the Pimlico Campus.
Cowboys Leagues Club additional premises
Mount Louisa Cowboys Leagues Club 25.0 –
Second leagues club facility planned for 3-5 years time.
Tompkins Road industrial estate Shaw Elements NQ 10.0 2025
77 lot industrial development.
Shaw Business Park Deeragun Stateland 12.0 –
25ha area for 47 light and service industry lots.
Dalrymple Road widening Kirwan Townsville City Council 11.0 2020
Widening from two lanes to four lanes between Thuringowa Drive and Kern Brothers Drive intersections.
Haughton water pipeline duplication Townsville Townsville City Council 155.0 2022
Pipeline between Burdekin and Ross River Dams, capable of pumping 198ML a day, to guarantee Townsville’s water supply for the next 50 years.
Lionel Turner Drive upgrade Bushland Beach Townsville City Council 14.0 2019
Staged construction of two lanes from Mount Low Parkway to Northshore Boulevarde.
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
036
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Water services upgrade Townsville Townsville City Council 165.0 2017
Completion of RM from southern suburbs to Cleveland Bay as part of capital works program.
Apartment Complex on The Strand North Ward Keycorp Constructions – –
20 unit block with ground level restaurant space.
Rivergrove Estate Jensen Elements NQ 40.0 2035
Residential estate around Mt Kulburn.
The Strand unit complex North Ward Northern Management Group 17.0 2016
41 unit apartment complex.
Elizabeth Street unit complex Aitkenvale Parkside Developments 19.0 2016
56 unit complex.
Kingston Park Estate Deeragun Parkside Developments 72.0 2030
720 lot residential estate.
The Woods residential estate Deeragun Parkside Developments 74.0 2030
740 lot residential development.
Fairfield Central Stage 3 Idalia Lancini Property & Development 30.0 2017
Expansion of shopping centre to include a Coles full line supermarket and specialty retail.
Fairfield Central Stages 4 & 5 Idalia Lancini Property & Development 12.0 2018
Expansion of shopping centre to include a retail high street, tavern, liquor barn and a range of specialty tenancies.
Masters Home Improvement Store Garbutt Woolworths 30.0
13,000sqm floor space for retail floor, garden centre, bulky goods area, café and ancillary office facilities, plus carparking for major hardware chain store. Situated in the Domain retail precinct, behind Bunnings.
Northern Beaches shopping centre Bushland Beach Marquette Properties 10.0 06/16
Shopping complex on the corner of Mount Low Parkway and Lionel Turner Drive, to include a Coles supermarket and 15 other shops, with approximately 5,000sqm of total retail space.
CityPoint redevelopment Townsville CBD
Lancini Property & Development 18.0 2017
Redevelopment and expansion of current CBD Woolworths site into retail and commercial office space.
PROJECT PIPELINE
MEDIUM TERM PIPELINE – CONTINUED
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Stockland Aitkenvale expansion Aitkenvale Stockland 50.0 –
Expansion of the shopping centre to include a new restaurant, catering shop, cinema, gymnasium, medical centre and car park.
Hugh Street shopping centre Currajong Parkside Developments 32.0 –
Neighbourhood shopping centre on the former rugby grounds in Hugh Street.
Port of Townsville Berth 10X South Townsville Port of Townsville Limited 300.0 –
Construction of two new berths to support growing general cargo, defence and cruise activities. Construction timing is subject to commercial negotiations.
Port of Townsville Berth 12 South Townsville Port of Townsville Limited 150.0 –
Construction of a new berth to support the export of bulk mineral products mined in the North West Minerals Province.
Port of Townsville channel widening South Townsville Port of Townsville Limited 20.0
Plan to widen the channels to receive larger container, fuel, car, general cargo and cruise vessels at the Port of Townsville.
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
MBD Energy water remediation project – MBD Energy 10.0 2016
Project to assist with cleanup of water at aquaculture and sugar cane farms.
Clare solar farmClare, Burdekin Shire
FRV– 2017
Proposed construction of large scale grid-connected solar farm utilising solar PV modules mounted on tracking system, inverters and transformers housed in shipping containers, cabling, solar farm substation including step-up transformer, internal access track, electrical transmission line, warehouse and O&M building and perimeter fence.
Burdekin River agricultural precinct Charters Towers
Charters Towers Regional Council (in conjunction with adjacent landowners)
10.0 2018
Development of major new irrigated cropping areas to facilitate additional agricultural production. Includes facilitation of detailed soil studies and agricultural viability studies into the availability of land and water and quality of land within the Upper Burdekin River Catchment.
Fertiliser manufacturing plant Charters Towers
Direct International Food Supplies Pty Ltd 90.0 2017
Dicalcium phosphate and monocalcium phosphate manufacturing facility for animal and plant feed/stock product supplement.
Administration Centre development Charters Towers
Charters Towers Regional Council 5.0 –
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND
037
038
PROJECT PIPELINE
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Hughenden beef processing facility Hughenden Flinders Shire Council, NorthBEEF
Model 1-$52.8 Model 2-$34.4 –
Following a pre-feasibility study to develop an integrated meat processing facility on the Town Common site in Hughenden, two different possible models have been costed, with Model 1 producing 59.1 tonnes per day and Model 2 29.3 tonnes per day.
Etheridge Integrated Agriculture Project Etheridge Integrated Food and
Energy Developments 1980.0 –
Large scale irrigated cropping, grazing and processing project.
Northern Territory gas pipeline Northern Territory
Northern Territory Government – –
Infrastructure from the Northern Territory to meet gas demand from the eastern states.
Meat processing facility Atherton Tablelands Tablelands Beef Australia 50.0 –
Construction of a meatworks integrated into the Tablelands Beef Australia cattle property.
Cairns southern access corridor Stage 2 Cairns Commonwealth
Government 58.0 –
Bruce Highway upgrade, with widening to six lanes planned between Sheehy Road and Ray Jones Drive. $46M of project committed by Australian Government.
SURROUNDING REGIONS
MEDIUM TERM PIPELINE – CONTINUED
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
All abilities playground Charters Towers
Charters Towers Regional Council 1.6 –
Playground to be built in the Mosman Creek corridor.
Mosman Creek recreation corridor Charters Towers
Charters Towers Regional Council 12.0 –
Next stage of the recreation facilities following the completion of walking tracks.
Water Playground Charters Towers
Charters Towers Regional Council 5.0 –
To be located at the Charters Towers pool complex.
Wildlife Sanctuary Charters Towers
Charters Towers Regional Council 2.0 –
Development of a sanctuary to support vulnerable, threatened and endangered birds and mammals, including a Bat Sanctuary, through the rehabilitation of degraded areas of historical mining fields at Youngs Block.
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND (CONTINUED)
039
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M)
COMPLETION DATE SECTOR
Alpha Coal projectAlpha, Barcaldine Region
GVK Hancock – –
32Mtpa open-cut coal mine.
Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail project Galilee Basin Adani Mining 16,500.0 –
Open-cut and underground coal mine with associated railway line.
The Cloncurry Project Cloncurry Shire
Sichuan Railway Investment Group, Altona Mining Limited
294.0 –
Development of Little Eva, a large-scale copper-gold mine with an expected 11 year initial life. Will produce 39,000 tonnes of copper and 17,000 ounces of gold per annum.
Gaililee Coal Project (Northern Export Facility) - China First Coal Project
Alpha, Barcaldine Region
Waratah Coal 6,400.0 –
Integrated coal mine, railway and port facility project for the export of thermal coal.
Collinsville solar farm Collinsville RATCH-Australia – –
Solar photovoltaic plant on the site of the former Collinsville power station. Proposed capacity of 36MW, with estimated annual generation of 80GW.
Mt Emerald wind farm Mareeba Shire Council
RATCH Australia / Port Bajool – –
Construction of a 63 turbine, 189MW wind farm between Atherton and Mareeba. Currently awaiting approvals.
Solar power stationNormanton, Carpentaria Shire
Scouller Energy 380.0 –
5MW solar PV power station. Aiming to start construction in 2015.
C3 Cairns CIU1 Pty Ltd 550.0 –
Three tower residential project, including one 24 storey and two 23 storey towers. Construction of first tower expected to begin end of 2016.
Aquis Great Barrier Reef Resort Cairns Aquis Group 8,150.0 2024
Integrated casino resort that will feature multiple hotels and restaurants, sport facilities including a golf course and a casino.
Cairns Aquarium and Reef Research Centre Cairns Cairns Aquarium,
Federal Government 50.0 –
Public aquarium with café and restaurant facilities as well as a research laboratory.
Lindeman Island resort Whitsunday Region
White Horse Australian Lindeman Pty Ltd 600.0 –
Redevelopment 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.
SURROUNDING REGIONS (CONTINUED)
040
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
CBD student accommodation Townsville CBD
Townsville City Council, James Cook University –
Feasibility being done into the possibility of repurposing existing office buildings for student accommodation.
Magnetic Island eco resort Magnetic Island Klein Corporation –
Conversion of backpackers guesthouse and wedding venue to a five-star eco resort, including 70 villas and four/five swimming pools.
Bwgcolman Aboriginal Land Development Cranbrook Bwgcolman Aboriginal Land Trust /
Dreamtime Training –
Museum and cultural centre with small conference facilities. Complex to include restaurant, motel, parkland and gardens.
Harbour City development South Townsville Port of Townsville Limited 300.0
Development 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.
Ideas Market Douglas James Cook University –
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.
Ryan Catholic College Stage 2 Kirwan Townsville Catholic Diocese 5.0
New library and refurbishment of teaching areas.
University Linked High School Townsville CBD
James Cook University, Queensland Government 16.0–51.0
Proposal to repurpose or rebuild on Western Campus site for a University Linked High School. Feasibility study completed in 2013 being re-examined.
Townsville Hospital expansion Stage 5 - Planned Procedure Centre Douglas Queensland Government 12.1
Two new procedure rooms with support space, additional recovery bays, second and third stage recovery spaces and day surgery capacity. Currently in design phase.
Cluden Transport and Warehouse precinct Cluden AIS Investments –
13ha of land to be developed into a transport and warehouse precinct.
PROJECT PIPELINE
POTENTIAL PIPELINE
TOWNSVILLE CITY
041
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
Sun Metals Stage 2 Stuart Sun Metals 700.0
Expansion of zinc refinery.
DHA Aitkenvale project Aitkenvale Defence Housing Australia –
Medium density residential project across a 6.24ha site. Currently in early planning phase.
Fairfield Waters commercial and unit complex Idalia Gedoun Constructions –
Commercial space complex with 16 residential units above.
Magnetic Island residential development
Magnetic Island Klein Corporation –
Residential development.
Nome residential development Nome Klein Corporation –
Southbank Townsville South Townsville
Leighton Properties, Devine –
Residential and commercial development on a 17ha area of the Ross Creek waterfront. Proposed to include apartment and townhouse complexes along with commercial and retail space.
Rocky Springs residential development Julago Lend Lease 1,500.0
Development of a satellite community with 12,000 residential dwellings and commercial and commuity facilities.
Townsville Recreational Boating Park (TRBP) - Stage 3
Railway Estate Townsville City Council –
Final stage of the TRBP project, adding a commercial area, wash down facilities, dry boat stacker, and provision for the coast guard.
Townsville Port expansion project South Townsville Port of Townsville Limited 1,300.0
Construction of up to six new berths with associated dredging and reclamation of approximately 100ha of land. The expansion seeks to secure the long term trading future of the North Queensland region. Approvals phase has commenced. Construction is trade dependant and will occur over a 30 year period. EIS under assessment by State and Commonwealth Governments.
Townsville Eastern Access Rail Corridor
South Townsville
Port of Townsville Limited, Queensland Rail 300.0
Plan to increase capacity to meet growing bulk cargo demand. This would allow for the increase in the length of trains into the Port of Townsville from 800m to 1,400m, minimising the rail bottlenecks during peak times, reducing freight rail traffic through residential areas and providing opportunities for development of the Townsville State Development Area.
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
042
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
Wherry House development Charters Towers Charters Towers Regional Council 5.25
Burdekin Irrigation Scheme Charters Towers Charters Towers Regional Council –
Irrigated cropping system along the Burdekin River.
North Queensland base load power station – Townsville Enterprise 1,778.0
800MW coal fired power station to reduce pressure on energy costs. Connection to the National Electricity Market north of Collinsville (approx cost of $200M) also required to harness full benefit to region as well as low-cost fuel from proposed Gaililee Basin mine sites.
Charters Towers data centre Charters Towers Charters Towers Regional Council –
The NextGen backhaul runs through Charters Towers, providing an opportunity for a data centre to be developed in North Queensland outside the cyclone prone coastal area, while still remaining in the Townsville North Queensland region.
Ayr Aerodrome master plan Burdekin Shire Burdekin Shire Council –
Development of a 20 year plan for the aerodrome.
Burdekin River second crossing Burdekin Shire Burdekin Shire Council 1,400.0
Second Bruce Highway crossing over the Burdekin River to expand on heavy vehicle and wide-load access of the current bridge.
Expansion of southern irrigation area Burdekin Shire Burdekin Shire Council –
Distribution infrastructure to provide water delivery to the southern end of the Burdekin Shire.
Majors Creek-Haughton River crossing project
Burdekin Shire
Burdekin Shire Council, Wilmar Sugar
20.0 (dependent on design)
High-level crossing of the Haughton River (road and/or rail) upriver of Majors Creek to better access 3,500ha of agricultural land.
Minor raising of Burdekin Dam Charters Towers Burdekin Shire Council –
Burdekin Dam expansion to service increased agricultural production and the long term needs of Townsville and the Galilee Basin.
PROJECT PIPELINE
POTENTIAL PIPELINE (CONTINUED)
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND
Redevelopment of a Local Heritage listed building.
043
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
Replacement of Haughton River bridge Burdekin Shire
Burdekin Shire Council, Dept Transport and Main Roads 500.0
Construction of a higher level bridge and road approach to improve flood immunity for the Haughton River crossing near Giru.
Ingham CBD master plan Hinchinbrook Shire Hinchinbrook Shire Council –
Revitalisation of Ingham CBD in collaboration with James Cook University.
North-south road access Hinchinbrook Shire Hinchinbrook Shire Council –
Upgrade of road connection between north and south suburbs of Ingham to provide flood immunity during heavy rain and flooding. Currently undertaking feasibility study.
Palm Creek retention basin Hinchinbrook Shire Hinchinbrook Shire Council –
Retention basin for the flooding of Palm Creek during heavy rain, in order to reduce risk of flooding between north and south of suburbs of Ingham. Currently undertaking feasibility study.
Dalrymple Scheme Townsville Enterprise 1,300.0
Proposal for a major new dam (capacity in excess of 625,000ML) on the Upper Burdekin River. This could support 4mtpa of sugar cane production and a sugar processing plant with an output of approximately 400,000tpa of sugar and 130ML pa of ethanol. Full expenditure for both infrastructure and agriculture project is $2.7B under a 4mtpa capacity sugar mill or $4.9B for a 10mtpa.
Solar utility Charters Towers Charters Towers Regional Council –
Solar utility capable of power generation for new industrial and commercial projects.
Wongaloo Regional Park Burdekin Shire –
Development of an eco-tourism park between Townsville and Ayr.
Cloncurry meat processing facility Cloncurry 50.0-80.0
Abattoir located at Cloncurry. Queensland Government study found Cloncurry to be the best Western Queensland location for a meat processing facility.
Mackay Airport redevelopment Mackay North Queensland Airports 902.0
Redevelopment of Mackay Airport.
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND (CONTINUED)
044
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
Urannah Dam Whitsunday Region Burdekin Shire Council –
Construction of a new dam in the Burdekin Catchment, southwest of Collinsville. Viable opportunity to meet water supply demand from proposed new mine developments, power generation proposals and industrial developments as well as creating a major irrigated agriculture area along the Bowen River.
Cairns Airport redevelopment Cairns North Queensland Airports 1.0B
20 year development vision, including an aviation enterprise precinct for industry opportunities and a commercial enterprise precinct.
Water Storage and Irrigated Agriculture project
Richmond Shire Richmond Shire Council 130.0-200.0
Construction of a dam at O’Connell Creek to tie in with modernised irrigation strategies. Pre-feasibility studies completed.
Whitsunday Coast Airport expansion Proserpine Whitsunday Regional Council 100.0
Expansion plans to triple the terminal size and extend the runway to 2.4km
Tropical Condition Sports Complex Cairns James Cook University 30.0
Proposal for the development of a tropical conditioning sports complex for elite athletes, education and research
PROJECT PIPELINE
POTENTIAL PIPELINE (CONTINUED)
SURROUNDING REGIONS
045Townsville City from Castle Hill by Megan MacKinnon
046Townsville City Aerial by Budd Photography
SEEKING INVESTMENT
At PwC, we believe our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We strive to be the catalyst for change. We do this by using our skills, position and relationships to work with others to make a difference and generate new ideas. We are passionate about creating new and unique industry perspectives and helping local business, including family businesses, grow and prosper in our region.
In partnering with Townsville Enterprise we are proud to support new thinking and provide a different perspective to the business community to generate economic growth in the Townsville North Queensland region.
This publication has been sponsored by:
047
SEEKING INVESTMENT
MAJOR INVESTMENT PROFILE
Driven by the region’s proximity to some of Australia’s most productive primary resource areas, Townsville North Queensland is abundant in economic opportunity.
The unprecedented population growth of the last five years does not show signs of slowing down. New mineral ventures are opening up in neighbouring regions and demand for local agricultural products is rapidly growing with the Asian middle class. As this population in Asia and The Tropics surges in proportion to the rest of the world, Townsville’s expertise in tropical innovation and research, anchored by world-
class institutions, only increases in relevance. Expansions at Townsville’s port and airport have further developed the region’s international connectivity.
The projects outlined in this prospectus represent a handful of the investment opportunities in the Townsville North Queensland region. Townsville Enterprise invites discussion on these opportunities; please contact the Economic Development team on +61 7 4726 2728 or [email protected] for more information.
QIC PURCHASES DOMAIN CENTRAL Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC) is one of Australia’s largest institutional fund managers, which has over the past 20-plus years acquired and developed a significant portfolio of dominant regional shopping centres and CBD commercial buildings throughout Australia. Its reputation for delivering predictable, long-term outcomes for clients is supported by more than A$14B (as at 31 March 2015) invested in Australian and international retail and office assets. QIC is a long-term investor committed to identifying strategic investment opportunities and its active management approach ensures that individual assets continue to develop and evolve, delivering exceptional customer and retail experiences.
The acquisition of Domain Central in July 2015 aligns with QIC’s strategy to develop a portfolio of high quality retail assets
that delivers strong investment returns. Domain Central is a strong performing well established centre incorporating a single level complex comprising 63 tenancies, many of which are unique to Townsville and the surrounding region. The centre currently comprises a gross lettable area of 48,706m2 with on grade parking for approximately 1,430 car spaces – making it the largest bulk goods centre in Queensland and the fourth largest in Australia, including retailer names such as Nick Scali, Snooze, Pillow Talk, Forty Winks, BCF, JB HiFi, The Good Guys and Freedom Furniture.
The Centre’s performance and location within the vibrant regional economic hub of Townsville, combined with the area’s solid population growth, make Domain Central a prime acquisition that further complements QIC’s blue chip portfolio of real estate investments.
048
SEEKING INVESTMENT
This report includes projects valued at $5M or greater. Projects are ranked in alphabetical order of sector. Townsville North Queensland refers to the Burdekin Shire, Charters Towers Region, Hinchinbrook Shire and Palm Island Shire. Surrounding Regions refer to Queensland regions from Gladstone north, reflecting the Queensland part of Northern Australia.
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
Ogden Street Mantra Hotel Townsville CBD Northern Management Group –
181 room hotel with conference centre and waterfront dining precinct on Ross Creek.
Dingo Park Calcium DAVCO Farming –
Feedlot, live export depot and abattoir on the outskirts of Townsville.
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
Charters Towers meat processing facility
Charters Towers Charters Towers Regional Council 50.0–80.0
Establishment of a facility to process locally sourced North Queensland product for local and export marketing. Concept and environmental planning being prepared and undertaken by Charters Towers Regional Council.
Motor sports complex Charters Towers North Queensland Motor Sports Inc 10.0
Establishment of modern, internationally accredited motorised sport and recreation precinct in a centrally located area. Proposed sports include drag racing, speedway, remote control cars, off-road racing and 4x4. Foundation works for the site have commenced.
Pentland bio-energy project
Pentland, Charters Towers Region
Renewable Developments Australia 558.0
Three stage project to establish a cane plantation and ethanol processing facility between Charters Towers and Pentland. Stage 1 to produce 300ML litres of ethanol for export per annum, with 140ML from a first generation production facility and 160ML from second generation processing technology. This will be done with product from an associated 18,500ha sugar cane plantation. Stage 2 will see expansion to 43,000ha sugar cane and production of 650ML litres ethanol per annum.
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND
INVESTMENT READY
TOWNSVILLE CITY
049
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
NQBE Integrated Energy FacilityIngham, Hinchinbrook Shire
North Queensland Bio-energy Corporation Ltd (NQBE) 520.0
Sugar, ethanol and renewable energy power generation facility.
KFSU Ayr, Burdekin Shire KFSU 7.0
Expansion 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 $3M.
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND (CONTINUED)
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
Forsayth Wind Farm Etheridge Infigen Energy 150.0
20-30 turbine wind farm with a 75MW capacity. Development approval from Etheridge Shire Council obtained.
Meat processing facilityAtherton Tablelands
Tablelands Beef Australia 50.0
Construction of a meatworks integrated into the Tablelands Beef Australia (TBA) cattle property. Approvals for the project are complete, with TBA now seeking funding in two rounds.
Skardon River bauxite mine Cape York Peninsula Gulf Alumina Ltd 90.0
Bauxite mine 100km north of Weipa with a project life of 10 years.
Watershed tungsten mine Mount Carbine Viral Metals Ltd 172.0
Tungsten mine at Mount Carbine. Project is on track to begin construction mid-2015, subject to finance.
SURROUNDING REGIONS
050
Company
KFSU Ltd
Sector
Agriculture
Project Opportunity
Sugar cane processing to produce natural, trademarked functional food ingredients including Phytocel™ and Kfibre™
Location
Ayr
Investment type
Equity / Convertible Note / Loan
Investment required
Stage One: $2M to optimise the current expansion and marketing
Stage Two: $3M for product trials for value-add on current product claims
Stage Three: $3M for realisation of sugar cane juice concentrate product
Investment opportunity summary
Patented technology to create innovative functional foods from sugar cane without using excessive heat, chemicals or enzymes. The process removes almost all the sugar and preserves vitamins, anti-oxidants and other beneficial food ingredients
The products are natural, clean and nutritious ingredients that can be added to almost all manufactured foods from bread to processed meats and pasta. In the retail market KFSU provides Kfibre™ for Northern Queensland pharmacies
There is significant domestic and export demand for the products
Existing production facilities have a capacity of 100 tonnes per annum.
Why invest?
KFSU is servicing an established customer base including global food and beverage companies, supported by distributors in Australia, Japan and the United States of America
Expanded production line close to completion (as per above)
Providing full product traceability from farm to customer, realising cost savings that are available via bulking, binding, moisture retention, product life extension
Significantly increased profitability for health benefits based on Phytocel ™.
Sugar cane juice is a by-product of the expanded production line, reducing the full investment in a cane juice concentrate line, improving speed to market and profitability
Dietary fibre is recognised by ALL medical organisations, including the World Health Organisation, as being essential for optimal health
Multiple health benefits in treating some of the largest pandemics have been identified including gut health, bowel health, GORD reflux
Strong management team including 30 years’ experience in global companies with strong commercial and government networks in Japan, Australia and the United States of America
Timeframe
Available now
Company overview
KFSU Ltd is an Australian company established in 2006 that produces patented natural, nutritious food additives including Phytocel™ and Kfibre™. The existing production facility is in operation in Ayr, North Queensland and is nearing first stage expansion completion.
For more information contact the Townsville Enterprise Economic Development Team – [email protected]
KFSUINVESTMENT READY PROJECT
051
Company
Renewable Developments Australia Pty Ltd
Sector
Bio-Energy
Project Opportunity
Biomass and Ethanol Production
Location
Between Charters Towers and Pentland
Investment type
Greenfield
Investment required
$558M
Investment opportunity summary
Establishment of a facility at stage one includes:
18,500 hectare irrigated sugar cane and sorghum plantation
140ML per annum first generation ethanol production plant
160ML per annum second generation (cellulosic) ethanol plant
1.8 million tonnes crushing and processing plant
450,000 tonnes of lignin
200,000 tonnes biomass (lignin) pellet plant
Renewable energy power plant using lignin to produce 25 megawatts of electricity to support the project
Port storage and offloading facility
Why invest?
Profitable business model incorporating integrated farm and production facility
Use of proven high performance technology
Project is designed to ensure best practice environmental performance and long term sustainability
Strong internal rate of return
Experienced management
Strong exportable products to meet future global demand for renewable fuels and bi-products
60 year lease of 67,000 hectares of cane production land
Timeframe
2014: Design completed
2015: Commence construction
2017: Expected production
Company/Project proponent overview
Renewable Developments Australia Pty Ltd (RDA) is a development company founded in 2004, with a focus on projects associated with the delivery of renewable energy. RDA has the technical expertise and project management skills for the development and delivery of a variety of renewable energy projects.
For more information contact the Townsville Enterprise Economic Development Team – [email protected]
PENTLAND BIOFUELS PROJECTINVESTMENT READY PROJECT
052
Company
North Queensland Bio-Energy Corporation Limited (NQBE)
Sector
Agriculture and Energy
Project Opportunity
Sugar cane processing, power generation and ethanol facility
Location
Ingham
Investment type
Equity
Investment required
Total project cost is $520M – Equity required is $210M
Investment opportunity summary
This “state-of-the-art” facility will be the first of its kind in Australia and features:
355,000 tonnes of sugar produced annually for the international market (approximately 8% of Australia’s current production)
Generation of 105–115 megawatts per hour of renewable power
46,000 to 50,000 tonnes of high value protein feed
60ML ethanol produced annually from second generation cellulosic technology
The most productive sugar cane strains sourced from around the world for both sugar and ethanol production
Why invest?
Strong return on investment on all pricing scenarios
10 Year Cane Supply Agreements in place, guaranteeing supply of the renewable biomass feed stocks
Use of proven second generation cellulosic ethanol production technology
Federal and State Government regulatory development approvals in place
The most modern sugar mill and electricity cogeneration facility in Australia
A range of value-added by-products including bio-plastics and high value bio-degradable chemicals
Innovative technologies used in every stage of processing
Experienced senior management team with expertise among the whole value chain
Proximity to major transport infrastructure including ports
Timeframe
2014: Design completed
2015–2016: Construction
June 2017: Operational
Company overview
North Queensland Bio-Energy Corporation Limited is a Queensland based company, planning the construction of a sugar (raw and white), ethanol and power generation facility in Ingham, North Queensland.
For more information contact the Townsville Enterprise Economic Development Team – [email protected]
NQBE INTEGRATED ENERGY FACILITYINVESTMENT READY PROJECT
053
Company
Davco Agriculture
Sector
Agriculture - Beef
Project Opportunity
Integrated cattle feedlot, farming and beef processing facility
Location
Townsville
Investment type
Joint Venture/Acquisition
Investment required
$20.8M
Investment opportunity summary
Situated in one of the world’s largest cattle breeding locations, Dingo Park is ideally positioned to capture the growing Asian demand for quality beef. The facility includes:
2,306 hectares on freehold titles
Existing feedlot pen capacity of 10,000 cattle, with plans to increase to 30,000. Potential to produce over 100,000 quality cattle per year.
Recently constructed grain/feed storage using the latest technology for optimal feed structure and low operating costs
526 hectares of efficient centre pivot irrigation area to supply high quality and high protein Rhodes grass for the feedlot hay requirements
Located in a clean and low populated environment
Access to secure water supply
Close proximity to the Port of Townsville which has both live cattle and cold storage capabilities for processed beef
Why invest?
Access to supply of lower cost cattle and grain
Large scale feedlot to support both live export and abattoir
Strategically located close to transport infrastructure and support services
Few competitors in the region
Potential for investor to secure offtake agreements for both beef and live cattle
Timeframe
Available now
Company/Project proponent overview
Davco Agriculture has extensive experience in the Australian agricultural industry and is one of the largest and most successful sugar cane companies in Australia. Davco is internationally recognised as a leader in state of the art mechanised sugar cane production and has developed and introduced a number of technologies to the global sugar cane industry.
For more information contact the Townsville Enterprise Economic Development Team – [email protected]
DINGO PARKINVESTMENT READY PROJECT
054
Company
Charters Towers Regional Council
Sector
Agriculture
Project Opportunity
Meat Processing Facility
Location
Charters Towers
Investment type
Greenfield Project Equity
Investment required
$50M–$80M
Investment opportunity summary
The Charters Towers region has a reliable year round supply of beef with a cattle population of over 600,000. The broader region within 500 kilometres produces in excess of 2 million head of cattle
Current transport of cattle to processing facilities or live export involves travel over long distances, with subsequent shrink losses and transport costs
Locating a meat processing facility closer to grazing catchment areas in Charters Towers would reduce shrinkage and transport costs
Why invest?
There is strong demand for clean and safe meat products especially in the Asian region
Charters Towers is strategically located on road and rail cross-roads which facilitates access from the wider region to the proposed meat processing facility
The location is 135 kilometres by road (approximately 1.5 hours) to the Port of Townsville
Availability of freehold land
Secure water and energy supply
Existing and expanded opportunities for irrigation for fodder production
Charters Towers Regional Council is a strong supporter of this development opportunity
Charters Towers Regional Council is undertaking environmental and social background studies to facilitate site selection and approval process
Timeframe
Available for immediate start to commence development approvals process
For more information contact the Townsville Enterprise Economic Development Team – [email protected]
CHARTERS TOWERS MEAT PROCESSING FACILITY
INVESTMENT READY PROJECT
055
SEEKING INVESTMENT
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
Nelly Bay development site Magnetic Island – –
Vacant land currently in receivership adjacent to Peppers Blue on Blue.
Cornerstone building Douglas James Cook University 35.0
Expression of interest open for a mixed use accommodation building containing serviced apartments, medi-hotel, short stay accommodation, conference facilities, a bar and a restaurant.
Arcadia Village Magnetic Island Galdam Pty Ltd 15.8
Existing resort and hotel complex overlooking Geoffrey and Alma Bays on Magnetic Island on 4.0392ha across four freehold land titles.
Radical Bay development Magnetic Island Juniper Property Holdings –
Opportunity for development of beachfront land, the former site of the Radical Bay Resort. Previously earmarked for resort development.
Nelly Bay development Magnetic Island
Curtain Bros, SeaLink Qld –
Development adjacent to the Nelly Bay ferry terminal.
Townsville North Rail Yards Townsville CBD Townsville City Council –
Opportunity to redevelop historic former rail yards site into a mixed-use CBD hub. Site is currently owned by Townsville City Council.
INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
Hinchinbrook HabitatsIngham, Hinchinbrook Shire
Everett Family Trust 6.5
Residential subdivision and ecotourism property development in the Wet Tropics rainforest. 254.95ha overlooking Hinchinbrook Island. Planning approvals in place.
TOWNSVILLE CITY
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND
056
Company
Everett Family Trust – Hinchinbrook Habitats
Sector
Property and Tourism
Project Opportunity
Opportunity to acquire exclusive residential land subdivision in the Hinchinbrook Shire with significant tourism development potential
Location
Ingham
Investment type
Residential land sales, acquisition of entire project, or development partner for proposed tourism precinct
Investment required
$6.5M (sale of individual lots from $135K)
Investment opportunity summary
Residential subdivision and ecotourism property development in the Hinchinbrook Shire on 254.952 ha set amidst Wet Tropics rainforest and overlooking the spectacular Hinchinbrook Island north of Townsville. All planning approvals in place to develop:
Subdivision for 81 lot rural residential development (minimum size 4000m2) with Stage one acreage lots now being marketed
49 eco-cabins (one and two bedroom with ensuite)
A Property Report is available on request
Why invest?
Unique residential subdivision nestled in the rainforest bordering the Wet Tropics and Great Barrier Reef World Heritage areas and offering riverfront acreage, with 81 flood free house sites
Direct road access to the national highway linking Cairns, Townsville and Brisbane. The main north-south rail line also traverses the property
Direct boating access to world class fishing areas within the Hinchinbrook Channel and Great Barrier Reef
Proximity to iconic natural scenery including Hinchinbrook Island and Wallaman Falls
Timeframe
Available now
Company/Project proponent overview
Mark Everett has been the driving force over the past ten years to develop this unique parcel of land, set amongst the finest wonders nature has to offer, into a visionary development that will incorporate residential and tourism opportunities. Many of North Queensland’s most experienced professionals have partnered with Mark to progress the development to its current position.
For more information contact the Townsville Enterprise Economic Development Team – [email protected]
HINCHINBROOK HABITATSINVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY PROJECT
057
Company Galdam Pty Ltd trading as Arcadia Village Magnetic Island
Sector Tourism
Project Opportunity Sale of resort and hotel complex including conference facilities, retail outlets, freestanding dwellings, motel units, hotel facility and a large tract of undeveloped land
Location Magnetic Island
Investment type Acquisition
Investment required Sale price $15.8M
Investment opportunity summary The existing Arcadia Resort and Hotel complex holds a commanding position overlooking Geoffrey and Alma Bays on Magnetic Island . It covers 4.0392 hectares comprising of four freehold land titles.
The site offers an unmatched development opportunity on Magnetic Island. A previous development approval (now lapsed) allowed for significant redevelopment to include over 200 units.
The site is located just a short 15 minute ferry ride from Townsville’s night life and casino.
Why invest?
Magnetic Island is a popular holiday destination with great accessibility to Townsville with utilities in place at mainland prices
Two-thirds of Magnetic Island is a declared National Park with only a very limited amount of developable land
Land can be purchased with freehold title, a unique situation for islands within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area
Potential for extensive site reconfiguration and redevelopment. The site has complementary zoning under the Townsville City Plan as a defined centre of activity including uses such as shops, small offices, medium density residential and tourist accommodation
Timeframe
Available now
Company/Project proponent overview The current owners, the McGill family, have owned the Arcadia resort complex since 1997. In 2001 it was leased to a major backpacker hostel chain that successfully operated the lease for the following 10 years until it expired in 2011. The McGill family then resumed operation of the resort and have made significant investment into the property including major renovations to broaden the appeal of the product to a greater range of patrons.
For more information contact the Townsville Enterprise Economic Development Team – [email protected]
ARCADIA VILLAGEINVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY PROJECT
Image by Kobie Rhodes
058
Company
Townsville City Council (TCC)
Sector
Community and Commercial Facilities
Project Opportunity
Redevelopment of 4.5 hectare site for a vibrant, mixed use precinct.
Location
Flinders Street West, Townsville
Investment type
Lease, Sale, Joint Venture
Investment required
Not specified
Investment opportunity summary
Development opportunity on iconic historic site located in rapidly growing outer CBD area.
Former rail yards site located on fringe of Townsville CBD
Extensive nearby residential and commercial development has recently taken place, providing opportunity for a mixed use development that will become a vibrant urban hub.
TCC is seeking developers specialising in medium to large scale commercial and residential developments in an historical setting. Subject to the Heritage obligations, TCC is open to all innovative approaches.
Why invest?
Opportunity to develop a strategically important and prominent urban renewal site in Townsville, being situated on Ross Creek at the western entrance to the CBD
Falls within the Priority Development Area, allowing for fast tracking and streamlining of the Development Applications process
Strong TCC support for the project - proposed Council involvement in master planning and a deferred payment model, as well as interest in facilitating positive outcomes and utilising strong Council relationships with relevant State Referral agencies
Located near site for proposed Integrated Stadium and Entertainment Centre (ISEC), with $100M funding commitment from State Government. This will further underpin urban renewal benefits
Rail yards site lies within Townsville CBD waterfront precinct. This project, which includes the ISEC, offers a vision to transform Townsville’s CBD, activating prime inner-city land for development to deliver significant economic benefits for the region
Strong community desire to see the dilapidated railway buildings restored and utilised
Timeframe
Expressions of interest are now sought
Company/Project proponent overview
Townsville is the largest city in Queensland outside of the State’s south east corner and lies at the centre of one of Australia’s most rapidly growing and significant economic zones.
Industry diversity, government investment and major infrastructure all underpin Townsville’s role as the commercial and services hub for North Queensland’s minerals, coal, agriculture, tourism and tropical sciences sectors.
For more information contact the Townsville Enterprise Economic Development Team – [email protected]
TOWNSVILLE NORTH RAIL YARDSINVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY PROJECT
*Image is indicative only
059Townsville City by Megan MacKinnon
Cattle by James Lazzaroni
SEEKING FUNDING
At PwC, we believe our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We strive to be the catalyst for change. We do this by using our skills, position and relationships to work with others to make a difference and generate new ideas. We are passionate about creating new and unique industry perspectives and helping local business, including family businesses, grow and prosper in our region.
In partnering with Townsville Enterprise we are proud to support new thinking and provide a different perspective to the business community to generate economic growth in the Townsville North Queensland region.
This publication has been sponsored by:
061
Townsville North Queensland has a clear list of infrastructure priorities to stimulate jobs, lifestyle and investment in the region. This document represents these projects and will inform the ongoing advocacy of Townsville Enterprise and the local community. It allows the region to present a considered, united and consistent message when advocating for regional funding, whether in the lead up to Government elections, budgets or ongoing funding programs.
Townsville Enterprise, along with the Townsville City Council, surrounding Regional Councils and other key stakeholder
organisations, continues to campaign for these projects. These efforts have already seen a $100M commitment from the Queensland Government for the Integrated Stadium and Entertainment Centre.
Townsville Enterprise is anticipating further engagement with its membership and the wider business community as it works to determine the major infrastructure projects that are needed to take the Townsvilel NOrth Queensland region forward and allow the community to harness North Queensland’s infinite potential.
SEEKING FUNDING
Image by Megan MacKinnon
062
The Integrated Stadium and Entertainment Centre proposal is one of Townsville’s major infrastructure and regional development projects through to 2020.
PROJECT OVERVIEWCommunity leaders have a unified vision to develop a new precinct in the heart of the CBD that would comprise an iconic multi-use international standard stadium and a 6,000 seat entertainment facility, incorporating indoor and outdoor events. The proposed new home of the North Queensland Cowboys National Rugby League team, this multi-purpose facility will showcase a plethora of national and international sporting events including rugby league, football and rugby union, as well as host major music events and festivals
COST$316M
LOCATIONThe Integrated Stadium and Entertainment Centre will be located along the banks of Ross Creek in the urban centre of Townsville. This prime location is adjacent to the Palmer Street dining precinct and public transport links. Over time, this area will be developed to include a high density residential and commercial village, becoming a lifestyle, recreational and leisure hub for Townsville and the greater region.
STATUS$100M in funding has been committed from the Queensland Government towards the facility.
A Queensland Government business case is due for release at the end of 2015. A Masterplan will then be completed in 2016. The additional $216M in funding is currently being sought.
SEEKING FUNDING
INTEGRATED STADIUM AND ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE
$100M Queensland Government commitment already secured
063
The Townsville City Waterfront precinct is a 97 hectare area spanning both sides of Ross Creek, adjacent to the Townsville CBD. It has been earmarked as a vibrant, mixed-use destination as part of Townsville’s goal to have 30,000 residents and workers in the CBD by 2030.
BACKGROUNDThe waterfront area has been identified as a Priority Development Area (PDA), designating it for accelerated economic growth to revitalise the Ross Creek waterfront and Townsville CBD.
The vision for the area will see the waterfront become the heart of Townsville, driving urban renewal in the CBD to create a cultural, tourism, recreation and urban lifestyle precinct. This will stimulate commercial opportunities and economic development in the city centre.
The planned Waterfront Promenade project within the PDA will complete a 35 kilometre network of walkways and bridges around Ross Creek and Ross River, seamlessly bringing together Townsville’s key leisure districts including Ross Creek, South Townsville, The Strand, Jezzine Barracks and Cape Pallarenda.
The PDA process is a strategic planning function to accelerate development, streamlining the planning, approval and development processes to facilitate growth within the area.
LOCATIONThe PDA connects the railway station in Flinders Street West, the Breakwater off The Strand, the Quayside Townsville terminal at the Port of Townsville and Reid Park. The area includes land owned by the Port of Townsville.
STATUSA proposed development scheme, outlining streamlined approvals and development processes for projects within the PDA, was put up for public consultation over a period finishing in mid-August. The final scheme is expected to be approved and commence in November 2015.
SEEKING FUNDING
TOWNSVILLE CITY WATERFRONT PRIORITY DEVELOPMENT AREA
The planned Waterfront Promenade project within the PDA, featuring a 35 kilometre
network of walkways and bridges around Ross Creek, will seamlessly
bring together Townsville’s key leisure districts including Ross Creek, South Townsville, The Strand, Jezzine Barracks and
Cape Pallarenda.
Image by Budd Photography
064
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
Replacement of Ayr Olympic standard swimming pool
Burdekin Shire Burdekin Shire Council 10.0
Upgrade of outdated facilities to preserve the pool and add disability access.
Replacement of Home Hill Olympic standard swimming pool
Home Hill, Burdekin Shire
Burdekin Shire Council 10.0
Upgrade of outdated facilities.
Alva reticulated sewer systemAlva, Burdekin Shire
Burdekin Shire Council 4.15
Installation of a sewage treatment plant to service the coastal village of Alva.
This report includes projects valued at $5M or greater within the Townsville City area. Projects are grouped by location. Townsville North Queensland refers to the Burdekin Shire, Charters Towers Region, Hinchinbrook Shire and Palm Island Shire. Surrounding Regions refer to Queensland regions from Gladstone north, reflecting the Queensland part of Northern Australia.
SEEKING FUNDING
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
Townsville Integrated Stadium and Entertainment Centre
South Townsville – 216.0 (Project
total - $316)
Combined facility in the Townsville CBD. $100M partial funding commited by Queensland Government with a further $216M being sought.
Waterfront Promenade Project Townsville CBD Townsville City Council 136.6
Approximately 35km network of pathways and enabling infrastructure, including 2.8km of high quality waterfront pathways, to connect the dining, entertainment, cultural and retail precincts of the CBD via the Ross Creek waterfront.
Townsville State Development Area Stuart Townsville Enterprise TBC
Enabling trunk infrastructure to facilitate private sector investment at the dedicated State Development Area.
Townsville Driver Education and Motor Sports Precinct - DECAMAG Calcium – 25.0
Construction of a motorsport precinct on southern outskirts of Townsville.
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND
TOWNSVILLE CITY
065
TOWNSVILLE CITY (CONTINUED)
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
Sutcliffe Estate reticulated sewer system
Ayr, Burdekin Shire
Burdekin Shire Council 10.7
Installation of pressure sewage system and rising main to service the Sutcliffe Estate, located between Ayr and Alva.
Groper Creek reticulated sewer system
Groper Creek, Burdekin Shire
Burdekin Shire Council 3.72
Installation of local sewage treatment plant and reticulation for the Groper Creek village community.
Inkerman Hill Road upgradeHome Hill, Burdekin Shire
Burdekin Shire Council 0.67
Widening and bitumen sealing of the road as well as installation of guard rails at bend to enhance safety. The road is popular for access to a tourist lookout and for exercise.
Dalrymple selling centre saleyard roof Charters Towers Charters Towers Regional Council 3.5 - 5.0
Construction of a solid roof structure over the selling pens to provide an all-weather selling centre.
White Mountains National Park eco-tourism
Charters Towers
Charters Towers Regional Council (in conjunction with the Gudjala People) 1.2
Opportunity to develop an eco-tourism venture to include new tourism product and enhance the visitor experience.
Eco-tourism recreation master plan and infrastructure project for Wallaman Falls
Hinchinbrook Shire Hinchinbrook Shire Council TBC
Building on the Great Walks network in the region, aim to expand multi-use access to the Wallaman Falls area to allow for hiking, mountain biking, climbing, bungy jumpying and abseiling facilities.
Wallaman Falls all weather access road
Hinchinbrook Shire Hinchinbrook Shire Council TBC
Road upgrade to provide all-weather access to the Wallaman Falls eco-tourist attraction.
Road link from Wallaman Falls to Mt Fox and Paluma
Hinchinbrook Shire Hinchinbrook Shire Council TBC
Creation of a road link from Wallaman Falls to Mt Fox and on to Paluma for the drive tourism market.
Wallaman Falls trail infrastructure Hinchinbrook Shire Hinchinbrook Shire Council TBC
Plan 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.
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND (CONTINUED)
066
PROJECT LOCATION PROPONENT INVESTMENT ($M) SECTOR
Beach communities sewerage scheme Hinchinbrook Shire Hinchinbrook Shire Council 60.0
Upgrade of sewerage treatment facilities at Halifax, Lucinda and Forrest Beaches. Stage 1 is upgrade of the centralised sewerage treatment plant at Ingham for $30M, Stage 2 to sewer the beach communities for $30M.
Palm Island retail and business precinct Palm Island Palm Island Aborignal Shire Council 20.0
Creation of a commercial town centre for the Palm Island community.
Ayr Industrial EstateAyr, Burdekin Shire
Burdekin Shire Council 2.1
Installation of trunk infrastructure and preparation of land to expand the existing Ayr Industrial Estate.
Multi-purpose hall and cyclone shelterHome Hill, Burdekin Shire
Burdekin Shire Council TBC
Multi-purpose hall at the Home Hill State High School, reinforced to withstand Category 5 cyclones.
Plantation Creek crossing flood mitigation
Burdekin Shire Burdekin Shire Council 30.0
High level bridge to improve flood immunity of the Bruce Highway at the notorious flooding spot between Queen Street and Rossiters Hill, a key part of the road connection from Ayr to Home Hill.
Ayr-Dalberg Road flood mitigation Burdekin Shire Burdekin Shire Council TBC
Upgrade of the key road connecting the townships of Dalberg, Millaroo and Clare with the centres of Ayr and Home Hill.
SEEKING FUNDING
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND (CONTINUED)
067Wallaman Falls, Hinchinbrook
068Integrated Stadium and Entertainment Centre Concept
ECONOMIC SNAPSHOT
At PwC, we believe our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We strive to be the catalyst for change. We do this by using our skills, position and relationships to work with others to make a difference and generate new ideas. We are passionate about creating new and unique industry perspectives and helping local business, including family businesses, grow and prosper in our region.
In partnering with Townsville Enterprise we are proud to support new thinking and provide a different perspective to the business community to generate economic growth in the Townsville North Queensland region.
This publication has been sponsored by:
069
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 up-to-date available data.
With trends identified and comparisons to the wider State, this report is intended to not just paint a picture of how the regional economy is tracking, but also provide your business with access to relevant data key to decision making.
All eyes are on Northern Australia and the significance of the Townsville North Queensland region has never been greater. The Economic Snapshot shows the continued strength of our population, economy and international connectivity. We hope you will find this information useful as you continue to harness the exciting opportunities that the region provides.
ECONOMIC SNAPSHOT
Image courtesy of Sunmetals
070
ECONOMIC SNAPSHOT
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND ECONOMY
NATION AT A GLANCE*
Source: Reserve Bank Australia, August 2014, Australian Bureau of Statistics, Office of Economic and Statistical Research
Australia GDP Growth Unemployment Rate2.5% 6.2%
Inflation Average Price Residential Dwellings1.3% $572K
RBA Cash Rate Queensland GrossState Product2% $295.1B
Population Queensland Population23.6 million (1.5% growth) 4.74 million
GrossRegional Product
$12.53B
Current RegionalPopulation
236,629
MedianHouse Price
$350K
KEY INDICATOR 2014 2015
Business Confidence -0.5 -0.5
Unemployment Rate 7.3% 7.9%
Persons Employed 108,600 112,900
House Median Price $345,000 $342,500 (Mar)
Building Approvals (July 2014-April 2015)3,142 Cum. Total July 13-April 14
2,759 Cum. Total July 14-April 15
Domestic Overnight Visitors 955,000Y/e Sept 2013
873,000 Y/e Sept 2014
International Overnight visitors 110,000Y/e Sept 2013
82,000 Y/e Sept 2014
REGION AT A GLANCE* *Figures reflect latest data available
071
Townsville North Queensland’s economy has seen signs of recovery after a sluggish start to the decade. The region’s 2013-14 Gross Regional Product (GRP) of $12.592 billion represents a 2.1% growth rate on the previous year. This strong growth has firmed the region’s economic significance as the highest GRP in Northern Australia outside of Western Australia’s Pilbara region.
Diversity continues to be the underpinning factor for the region’s economic strength. The largest industry by value-added, Rental, Hiring and Real Estate, holds only 12.3% of value-added GRP. This is followed by Public Administration and Safety, driven by Defence, with an 11.1% share.
Around half of the region’s GRP is shared across the five largest industries. See Figure 1 for full breakdown.
Combining the GRP for the economically significant north-west resources region with that of Townsville North Queensland produces a different picture. While economic growth of 2.1% is maintained, economic diversity is greatly diminished with the mining industry accounting for 21.5% of the combined region’s value-added GRP. See Figure 2 for full breakdown.
For further explanation of Gross Regional Product and value-added classifications, please see the Glossary on p085.
GROSS REGIONAL PRODUCT
FIGURE 1 VALUE ADDED GROSS REGIONAL PRODUCT FOR TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND
Rental, Hiring & Real Estate Services 12.3%
Public Administration & Safety 11.1%
Manufacturing 10.7%
Construction 7.7%
Health Care & Social Assistance 7.5%
Education & Training 6.0%
Financial & Insurance Services 5.1%
Retail Trade 5.0%
Transport, Postal & Warehousing 4.9%
Mining 4.8%
Electricity, Gas, Water & Waste Services 4.2%
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services 4.0%
Wholesale Trade 3.7%
Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing 3.0%
Accommodation & Food Services 2.7%
Information Media & Telecommunications 2.5%
Other Services 2.0%
Administrative & Support Services 2.0%
Arts & Recreation Services 0.8%
SOURCE: REMPLAN, JANUARY 2015
$11.67B
072
ECONOMIC SNAPSHOT
GROSS REGIONAL PRODUCT (CONTINUED)
TOP FIVE REGIONAL ECONOMIES BY GRP IN NORTHERN AUSTRALIA 2014
FIGURE 2 VALUE-ADDED GRP - TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND AND NORTH WEST
Mining 21.5%
Rental, Hiring & Real Estate Services 10.3%
Manufacturing 9.1%
Public Administration & Safety 8.7%
Construction 6.6%
Health Care & Social Assistance 6.0%
Education & Training 4.9%
Transport, Postal & Warehousing 4.2%
Retail Trade 4.0%
Financial & Insurance Services 4.0%
Electricity, Gas, Water & Waste Services 3.6%
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services 3.1%
Wholesale Trade 3.0%
Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing 2.8%
Accommodation & Food Services 2.3%
Information Media & Telecommunications 1.9%
Administrative & Support Services 1.7%
Other Services 1.7%
Arts & Recreation Services 0.6%
SOURCE: REMPLAN, JANUARY 2015
$16.2B
WA $34.849B
WA $10.576B
QLD $12.592B
QLD $8.77B
NT $9.21B
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND
PILBARA
EAST PILBARA
DARWIN
ISAAC
Source: Remplan Economic Development Modelling, Economy ID Economic Development Modelling
073
Townsville maintained strong population growth into 2014, with a growth rate of 1.6% bringing the city’s population to an estimated 192,107 people. The city’s five-year population growth rate is a remarkable 11%.
In the broader region, Townsville North Queensland grew by a collective 1.3% to an estimated total population of 236,629. This reflects a total growth rate of 8.9% over the last five years.
The most recent projections have Townsville North Queensland expected to reach a population of 361,098 by June 2036, an increase of 1.9% per year over 20 years.
Townsville City is expected to have 314,362 persons, with an annual growth rate of 2.3% per year.
ESTIMATED POPULATION
PROJECTED POPULATION
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND
BY 2036
TOWNSVILLE CITY BY 2036361,098 314,361
REGIONAL POPULATION FORECASTS TO 2036
Source: OESR, data as at June 2011 (updated June 2013)
BURDEKIN
19,467
HINCHINBROOK
11,351
CHARTERS TOWERS
12,459
PALM ISLAND
3,460
074
MEDIAN AGE
NEW RESIDENTS
MEDIAN AGE
Queensland
36.6
Yearly
3,877
34.4
Townsville NorthQueensland
75
Weekly
ECONOMIC SNAPSHOT
REGIONAL POPULATION BREAKDOWN FORECAST TO 2036
0–4
5–9
10–14
15–19
20–24
25–29
30–34
35–39
40–44
45–49
50–54
55–59
60–64
65–69
70–74
75–79
80–84
85+
15,940
15,209
15,625
17,091
17,972
17,066
15,108
15,669
15,878
15,241
14,891
12,704
11,177
8,318
6,168
4,466
3,395
2,760
22,877
22,964
23,518
25,472
27,208
24,782
23,263
22,568
22,553
22,449
21,305
18,604
17,785
16,651
15,019
13,381
10,091
10,609
AGE
361,099
YEAR
224,678
YEAR
TOTAL
Source: Queensland Government Population Projections, 2013 edition (medium series)
075
EDUCATION AND INNOVATIONWith recent major expansions in the region’s tertiary education sector, Education continues 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 GRP is approximately $703M, around 6% of the region’s total GRP.
2015 has seen dramatic additions to the region’s tertiary education facilities, with a number of new facilities and further infrastructure plans underway.
EDUCATION INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTSCQUniversity Townsville Campus
The opening of a CQUniversity Campus in the Townsville CBD sees the addition of a second world class university in Townsville. As well as supporting the university’s local distance education students, the facility will allow for the delivery of face-to-face programs.
James Cook University CBD Campus
James Cook University has also expanded its Townsville facilities beyond its Douglas Campus, with the opening of a new Campus in the CBD. The modern facility, located in the new City Arcade in Flinders Street, will cater largely to the university’s business and law disciplines. In addition to providing innovative learning and study facilities for students, the new Campus is designed to enhance the university’s
community and business engagement, with a board room with teleconferencing facilities and a ‘moot court’ featuring electronic court facilities, the first of its kind in the region.
Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine (AITHM)
Work is underway on the $31M AITHM facility at James Cook University ( JCU). Taking advantage of JCU’s strategic proximity in the rapidly growing tropical world, the Institute will work on key health issues of significance, focussed around three key areas: strengthening Australia’s health security with research into tropical infectious diseases and other threats; improving health outcomes in rural, remote, Indigenous and tropical Australia; and improving occupational health in key tropics-based industries including mining and agriculture, working to create strategies around reducing death, injury and illness in these industries.
Discovery Rise
Discovery Rise is James Cook University’s vision to create an integrated residential and knowledge community on its Douglas Campus. 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.
Image by Megan MacKinnon
076
PROPERTYTownsville’s real estate market has been through a period of steadying conditions in the March Quarter, according to the Real Estate Institute of Queensland’s latest edition of the Queensland Market Monitor. REIQ is now classifying Townsville as a ‘recovering’ housing market.
House sales saw a modest drop in the March 2015 Quarter, falling by 9%. As shown in the table below, this has come from the lower and higher ends of the market, with mid-range house sales maintaining consistent numbers. The median house price has remained steady over this time, experiencing a minor 0.7% dip to $350K and a 1.4% fall over 12 months. The total number of houses listed over this period (to the end of February) has increased by 4.1% to 4,355 over the equivalent period last year, while the average number of days on the market has remained steady at 91 (up from 90).
A more significant softening occurred in the Townsville unit market. Median sales prices fell by 6% to $272.5K in the March Quarter (contributing to a 12 month fall of 1.8%). Over the 12 months to the end of February, 1,299 units were listed (a rise of 5.2% from the previous year), with the average number of days on the market maintained at 123 (down from 124).
MEDIAN AGEECONOMIC SNAPSHOT
HOUSE SALES
UNIT SALES
REGION MEDIAN SALE PRICE ($) QUARTERLY % CHANGE 1 YEAR % CHANGE 5 YEAR % CHANGE
Townsville 350,000 -0.7 -1.4 -4.1
Burdekin 250,000 35.1 -4.8 -12.5
Charters Towers 170,000 -11.7 -9.7 -20.7
Hinchinbrook N/A N/A -7.7 -12.5
Image by Budd Photography
077
REGION NO. NEW HOUSESNO. NEW OTHER RESIDENTIAL BUILDING
TOTAL DWELLINGS
VALUE OF NON-RESIDENTIAL BUILDING ($000s)
VALUE OF TOTAL BUILDING ($000s)
Burdekin 29 2 31 12,164 26,768
Charters Towers 16 2 18 5,083 12,115
Hinchinbrook 21 5 26 8,276 17,356
Palm Island - - - 531.0 531.0
170building approvals
Burdell
136building approvals
Mount Low
74building approvals
Rasmussen
43building approvals
Bohle Plains
42building approvals
Oonoonba
TOP 5 SUBURBS FOR BUILDING APPROVALS FY14/15
REGIONAL BUILDING APPROVALS
TOWNSVILLE BUILDING APPROVALS
14%
3,263
2014/15
3,805
2013/14
Source: Queensland Government Statisticians Office, 12 months ending March 2015
078
MEDIAN AGEECONOMIC SNAPSHOT
BUSINESS CONFIDENCEThe latest PwC Business Confidence Change Index for Townsville shows a modest improvement for the June Quarter, rising 0.7 basis points to -0.5. This represents the second consecutive increase in business confidence, the first time the index has risen in consecutive quarters since 2010.
Despite the boost in confidence, over half of respondents stated they believe the January change in State Government would impact business negatively. When asked what they would like to see from the new State Government, half of the respondents are looking for local infrastructure projects to provide an injection into the economy and create jobs.
The business community is also expecting an upturn in the local economy, with the survey finding that 75% of respondents expected sales to remain stable or increase. For businesses outside the mining sector, 73% expect to see an increase in sales.
For more detailed information, contact the PwC Townsville office on (07) 4721 8500.
TOWNSVILLE BUSINESS CONFIDENCE INDEX
The majority of businesses within Townsville North Queensland are deemed to be SMEs. In an effort to provide further context for these businesses, this section provides a summary of the Sensis Business Index survey.
For the opening quarter of 2015, confidence increased slightly in regional areas while remaining the same in capital cities. While this narrowed the gap, regional business confidence continues to lag behind metropolitan areas, reflected in the trend of regional SMEs raising
their prices by a greater level than their metropolitan counterparts. Among industries, Hospitality and Finance and Insurance had the highest levels of confidence across the country. Manufacturing and Building and Construction were the only industries to record below average confidence. Following a slight drop, Queensland had the second lowest State confidence and the lowest regional confidence.
Source: Sensis Business Index March 2015
REFLECTION ON SMALL MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMES) ACROSS AUSTRALIA
-15
-5
5
-10
10
15
0
Mar-10
Jun-10
Sep-10
Dec-10
Mar-11
Jun-11
Sep-11
Dec-11
Mar-12
Jun-12
Sep-12
Dec-12
Mar-13
Jun-13
Sep-13
Dec-13
Mar-14
Jun-14
Mar-15
Jun-15
Sep-15
Sep-14
Dec-14
Business Confidence Change Index - Townsville
079
STATE OF THE STATESEach quarter CommSec delivers a report by analysing eight key indicators: economic growth, retail spending, equipment investment, unemployment, construction work
completed, population growth, housing finance and dwelling commencement. The following summarises the April 2015 edition of the report.
State of the States July 2015 State & territory economic performance report. Executive Summary
NSW ON TOP; VICTORIA NOW SECOND
How are Australia’s states and territories performing? Each quarter CommSec attempts to find out by analysing eight key indicators: economic growth; retail spending; equipment investment; unemployment; construction work done; population growth; housing finance and dwelling commencements.Just as the Reserve Bank uses long-term averages to determine the level of ‘normal’ interest rates; we have done the same with key economic indicators. For each state and territory, latest readings for the key indicators were compared with decade averages – that is, against the ‘normal’ performance.
In the latest results NSW has consolidated its spot at the top of the economic rankings and there is now a wider gap to the next grouping of states and territories. Interestingly, Victoria has now taken second spot, leaping both Northern Territory and Western Australia. While there is little to separate these three economies, Northern Australia is in third spot while Western Australia is fourth ranked.Queensland barely holds on to fifth spot from the ACT (sixth). They effectively constitute a third tier of economies. The fourth tier of economies is made up of South Australia (seventh) and Tasmania (eighth).
4
3
7
2
8
5
1
+-
Unemployment
Housing finance
The Northern Territory is pushed back into third spot in the rankings of best performing economies.
NT+-
Queensland is the fifth strongest economy but lags on unemployment and population growth.
QLD
Unemployment
Retail trade
+-
NSW retains the top spot of the best performing economies. Home building is strong.
NSW
Economic growth
Retail spending
+-
The ACT economy is the sixth best performing economy, supported by housing finance but constrained by weak business investment.
ACT
Equipment spending
Housing finance
6
+-
Tasmania remains at the bottom of the economic performance table.
TAS
Retail trade
Unemployment +-
Victoria is the second strongest economy, and is ranked second on population growth, housing finance and dwelling starts.
VIC
Equipment spending
Home lending
+-
South Australia is the seventh strongest economy but is third ranked on population growth and business investment.
SA
Unemployment
Population growth
+-
Western Australia has drifted to the fourth best performing economy in the nation, constrained by rising unemployment.
WA
Unemployment
Retail trade
080
MEDIAN AGEECONOMIC SNAPSHOT
EMPLOYMENTThe drop in newspaper job advertisements that has been seen over the last few years (largely attributed to increased reliance on online job advertising) appears to have stabilised which is a positive sign for the jobs market. Despite a modest drop at the start of 2015, an upwards trend still exists for online job advertisements.
Townsville North Queensland’s unemployment rate in April was 7.9%, (using three month average data), with youth (aged 15-24) unemployment at 18.1%. While this represents an increase in unemployment over the financial year, the participation rate has also increased, with more people either working or actively searching for work. The total number of jobs in the region has also increased, albeit with an increased emphasis on part-time employment.
TOWNSVILLE NORTH QUEENSLAND
7.9%
QUEENSLAND
6.7%
AUSTRALIA
6.2%
UNEMPLOYMENT RATES
NUMBER OF BUSINESSES IN NORTH QUEENSLAND,BY NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
Source: Labour Market Industry Portal, Population by Labour Force Status April 2015
Source: Remplan Economic Profile, June 2013
Labour Force Status
Persons July 2014
Persons April 2015
Employed Full-Time 79,600 76,900
Employed Part-Time 29,000 36,000
Unemployed 8,500 9,700
Not in the Labour Force 64,700 61,600
Participation Rate (%) 64.4 66.6
NON-EMPLOYING 9,819
1–4 EMPLOYEES 4,489
5–19 EMPLOYEES 2,014
20–199 EMPLOYEES 497
Townsville has the largest labour market in
Northern Australia, with over 122,000 people engaged in or
actively looking for work.
DID YOU KNOW...
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INDUSTRY EMPLOYMENT
2,000
3,300
6,900
1,300
10,600
2,900
12,300
10,600
5,600
2,600
1,300
1,000
4,700
4,300
7,600
10,000
17,400
1,800
5,000
5,500
5,600
8,500
1,000
11,500
3,000
11,100
7,500
7,000
1,700
1,000
2,000
4,300
2,400
9,100
8,400
15,100
1,700
4,600
Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing
Mining
Manufacturing
Electricity, Gas, Water and Waste Services
Construction
Wholesale Trade
Retail Trade
Accommodation and Food Services
Transport, Postal and Warehousing
Information Media and Telecommunications
Financial and Insurance Services
Rental, Hiring and Real Estate Services
Professional, Scientific and Technical Services
Administrative and Support Services
Public Administration and Safety
Education and Training
Health Care and Social Assistance
Arts and Recreation Services
Other Services
INDUSTRYFEBRUARY
2015FEBRUARY
2014
Source: ABS Labour Force Survey, Four Quarter Average May 2015
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MEDIAN AGEECONOMIC SNAPSHOT
EXPORT MARKET ANALYSIS
COUNTRY IN FOCUS: PAPUA NEW GUINEAWith Port Moresby closer to Townsville than Brisbane, proximity is just one reason that Papua New Guinea (PNG) presents a major economic opportunity for the Townsville North Queensland region.
Driven by its resources sector, PNG is in the middle of the longest period of economic growth in its history. With the commencement of Liquefied Natural Gas exports in 2014, Real GDP Growth is forecast to reach 19.3% in 2015. The country’s resources sector, a major pillar of its economy, is also built on its gold, silver, copper, nickel and petroleum sectors.
Cultural factors still play a significant role in doing business in PNG. There is a large informal economy, with approximately 85% of it operating on a subsistence basis. This is particularly prevalent in the agricultural sector. Building relationships is vital and after-sale service is valued highly, as is consistency in personnel for contact and communication. The ‘wantok’ system (translated literally to ‘one voice’) also results in obligations to help out another ‘wantok’, regardless of personal consequences. Corruption and law and order continue to be problems.
The present PNG Government, one of the most stable in the country’s history, is strongly supportive of the continued growth of the Mining and Agricultural sectors and is committed to making long overdue investment in the country’s infrastructure.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
AUSTRALIA
Townsville North Queensland
Port Moresby
CAPITAL CITY
CURRENCY
IMPORTS EXPORTSPOPULATION
MAJOR INDUSTRIES
OFFICIAL LANGUAGES
MAJOR AUSTRALIAN EXPORTS
REAL GDP GROWTH 2014
PORT MORESBY
KINA A$1 = 2.0520 KINA (MARCH 2015)
A$3,845M7.3 MILLION
AGRICULTURE, MINING & RESOURCES,
CONSTRUCTION
A$2,946MTOK PISIN, ENGLISH, HIRI MOTU 5.8%
Crude petroleum ($372M)
Professional, technical and
other business services
($246M)
Civil engineering equipment and parts ($118M)
Meat (excl. beef) ($99M)
Personal travel
excluding education ($84M)
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TRADE: PORT OF TOWNSVILLE SNAPSHOT
ANNUAL TONNAGE
PORTS TRADED WITH COMMODITIESVALUE OF
TRADEVESSEL VISITS
10.2 MILLION TONNES
233 PORTS IN 41 COUNTRIES$8B 30+674
Imports from
TOWNSVILLE PORT
Exports to
Imports from +Exports to TOWNSVILLE
TOP FIVE IMPORT COUNTRIES
TOP FIVE EXPORT COUNTRIES
NICKEL ORE
TOP FIVE COMMODITIES TRADED
PETROLEUM PRODUCTS SUGAR CONCENTRATED
ZINC FERTILISER
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MEDIAN AGEECONOMIC SNAPSHOT
TOURISM - VISITATIONThe year to September 2014 saw an 8.6% drop in overnight visitation to the region, driven by a significant 21.5% decrease in domestic holiday visitation. Positively, there were modest increases in domestic Visiting Friends and Relatives and Business travel of 2% and 8.1% respectively. International overnight visitors also dropped 8.3%. For day trip visitors, Townsville saw a 1.3% increase in domestic visitors, bucking the State-wide 8.6% decrease for the whole of Queensland.
DOMESTIC OVERNIGHT VISITORS
INTERNATIONAL OVERNIGHT VISITORS
DAY TRIP VISITORS
Type of Visit Domestic Domestic Annual Change International
International Annual Change
Holiday 279,000 -13.4% 90,000 +10.8%
Visiting Friends/Relatives 321,000 -16.2% 17,000 +39.5%
Business 182,000 +1.7% N/A N/A
UK
23,000
2.9%
GERMANY
19,000
16.6%
NEW ZEALAND
11,000
28.2%
USA
9,000
66.3%
SCANDINAVIA
7,000
39.9%
KEY SOURCE MARKETS - INTERNATIONAL
BRISBANE154,000
22.6%
REGIONAL QUEENSLAND
522,000
13.4%
KEY SOURCE MARKETS - DOMESTIC
873,000 113,000 1.01Million
13.4% 12.3% 26.1%
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107 EVENTS
7,799 DELEGATES
128 INTERNATIONAL
5,445 STATE AND LOCAL
2,226 NATIONAL
19,710 DELEGATE DAYS
Tourism Visitor Expenditure Domestic Day Domestic
Overnight International
Average Stay (nights) - 4 13
Average Spend per trip $144 $726 $814
Average spend per night - $172 $65
TOURISM BUSINESS EVENTS 2013/14
Source: Tourism Region Profiles 2013-14 – Northern Queensland, Tourism Research Australia
Source: Queensland Business Events Survey, Queensland Government, 2012-13
2,476,638
-3.4%
SEATS FOR FY 2015
1,550,501
-2.8%
PASSENGERS FOR FY 2015
TOWNSVILLE AIRPORT
BUSIEST ROUTE: TOWNSVILLE – BRISBANE
2014 INBOUND PASSENGERS
458,923
2014 OUTBOUND PASSENGERS
472,351
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 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)
PwC Townsville Business Index Survey: PwC surveyed 300 of its clients for the June Quarter business confidence outlook. Value-added: Value-added data represents the additional economic value that is made by each industry sector. (Source: REMPLAN Economic Modelling)
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
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MEDIAN AGEECONOMIC SNAPSHOT
RPS is an international consultancy providing world class local solutions in urban growth, infrastructure, natural resource management, mining and energy.
In Townsville, our multi-disciplinary team of talented professionals has played a leading role in many of the area’s major projects. We are proud to provide the following examples of the high calibre projects we lead and which are helping drive the local economy.
North Shore is Townsville’s premier master planned community, which, once completed, will comprise 5,500 homes and feature a major town centre. The success of North Shore is demonstrated by its major influence in the Deeragun statistical area, being the second largest and fourth fastest growing area in Queensland (ABS 2013-14).
At RPS we believe that Stockland’s commitment to undertaking detailed planning and design for the project is a major factor in its success. Our team has delivered a flexible platform that ensures North Shore can rapidly meet changing market conditions. It is a testament to the world class expertise of RPS’ locally based Urban Design, Landscape Design and Survey teams. The recent addition of the MODE Village delivers a higher density housing to address affordability issues.
RPS has been providing additional planning and survey services to the thriving town centre precinct including Bunnings third store for the city.
The North Shore development is considered by many to have been the backbone to the Townsville region’s building industry and will continue to be a significant ongoing contributor to the region’s economy into the future.
CASE STUDY: NORTH SHORE MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITY CLIENT: STOCKLAND
RPS EXPERTS HELPING DELIVER REGION BUILDING PROJECTS
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Agripower owns and operates one of the world’s largest deposits of Diatomaceous Earth near Greenvale north of Charters Towers. Diatomaceous Earth is a unique natural silicon based product, high in Plant Available Silicon (PAS) that provides an organic solution as an alternative and supplement for NPK fertiliser and soil conditioning agents. The Diatomaceous Earth that is mined is transported to the processing facility, which is now operational near Charters Towers.
RPS has been one of the lead consultants providing town planning, environmental and survey consulting services since 2011. RPS’s services commenced with due diligence for selecting the site, followed by on ground management of the planning and environmental approval process. Agripower’s decision to involve local experts in the development site selection process helped eliminate many of the hurdles that can arise during a complex approvals process.
Agripower is committed to a long term growth strategy seeing ongoing expansion of its operations with the strong domestic and international demand for its current and future products driving a strong export demand. RPS is committed to ensuring that Agripower can deliver on these commitments through providing ongoing environmental, surveying, town planning and other management services.
• Planning • Urban Design • Survey and Mapping • Environment and Water • Landscape Design Townsville Office Contact: Mark Carter – General Manager Townsville Phone: 07 4724 4244 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rpsgroup.com.au/townsville
CASE STUDY: DIATOMACEOUS EARTH PROCESSING FACILITY CHARTERS TOWERS CLIENT: AGRIPOWER
088Townsville City by Megan MacKinnon
NORTHERN LIVING
At PwC, we believe our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We strive to be the catalyst for change. We do this by using our skills, position and relationships to work with others to make a difference and generate new ideas. We are passionate about creating new and unique industry perspectives and helping local business, including family businesses, grow and prosper in our region.
In partnering with Townsville Enterprise we are proud to support new thinking and provide a different perspective to the business community to generate economic growth in the Townsville North Queensland region.
This publication has been sponsored by:
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Providing a relaxed tropical lifestyle that is complemented by all your metropolitan city comforts, no other Australian region boasts the resilience, diversity, lifestyle and economic potential that the Townsville North Queensland region enjoys.
Regarded as the commercial hub of Northern Australia and 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 edge 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 and provides a playground of leisure activities and diverse employment opportunities.
Underpinned by a diverse economy, Townsville offers employment opportunities across a variety of industries. The region’s main employment providers include retail trade, health care and social assistance, public administration and safety, manufacturing, education and training and construction.
NORTHERN LIVING
CASTLE HILL AND THE STRAND, TOWNSVILLE
WHERE CAN YOUCOMBINE A HEALTHY, ACTIVE LIFESTYLE WITH MILLION DOLLAR VIEWS?
Image by Megan MacKinnon
Image by Megan MacKinnon
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NORTHERN LIVING
SPORTINGInternational and National Sporting Events
For sporting enthusiasts, Townsville is home to three national sporting teams – the North Queensland Cowboys (NRL), Townsville Crocodiles (NBL) and Townsville Fire (WNBL) plus it ’s also a host city for the national V8 Supercar circuit. Townsville residents enjoy the flurry of activity and sporting spirit that each home game presents.
Local Sporting Teams
Townsville has an extremely active community due to the year round beautiful weather. With access to all codes of football (Australian Rules, Rugby League, Rugby Union, Soccer), basketball, baseball, water sports, hockey, netball, golf, volleyball, bowling, equestrian and more, there is something that will suit everyone’s lifestyle.
CLIMATEWith 300 days of sunshine a 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 1143mm, which mostly occurs from December to March.
Max. (°C)
31.4
24.3
31.1
24.1
30.7
22.9
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
22.9
31.5
24.1
Min. (°C)
Townsville North Queensland Average Temperatures
HOW MANY NATIONAL SPORTING TEAMSCALL TOWNSVILLETHEIR HOME?
Townsville North Queensland Average Days of Rain
11.8
Days ofRain
12.8
9.6
5.43.7
2.4 1.9 1.5 1.32.9
4.97.3
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ARTS, CULTURE AND EVENTSLive theatre, music and the arts feature prominently in the lifestyles of the Townsville North Queensland community. Townsville enjoys two major art galleries - Perc Tucker Regional Gallery and Pinnacles Gallery - with smaller boutique galleries throughout the region.
The local Entertainment and Convention Centre hosts major acts, concerts, conventions, exhibitions and indoor sporting events. The Townsville Civic Theatre holds many local, national and international performances in dance, music, opera, comedy and drama.
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 and showcases local, national and international musicians, dancers, poets, street and cultural performers from diverse backgrounds. Other festivals include The Greek Fest, Australian Italian Festival, Ten Days in the Towers and Burdekin Water Festival.
Groovin’ the Moo attracts international and national acts and attracts music enthusiasts by the thousands to Townsville for the May Day long weekend. This often sold out music festival is a highlight on the region’s Event Calendar. Past acts have included 360, Hilltop Hoods, Silverchair and Bliss N Eso.
Contemporary Dance
Dancenorth is Townsville’s very own, globally recognised contemporary dance company. Dancenorth enjoys a reputation for original and polished productions that are performed locally, nationally and internationally.
Museum and Cultural Centre
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 and enjoy the history of rainforest, corals and marine creatures and let the kids have fun in the Mind Zone, interactive science centre.
The Cultural Centre, located next to MTQ, is a unique experience that provides visitors with exhibitions, performances and artefacts depicting the heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
AUSTRALIAN FESTIVAL OF CHAMBER MUSIC TYTO REGIONAL ART GALLERY, HINCHINBROOK
WHERE WILL YOU FIND A THRIVING CULTURALAND ARTS SCENE IN REGIONAL AUSTRALIA?
RIVERWAYS ARTS CENTRE BURDEKIN THEATRESTRAND EPHEMERA
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DINING, ENTERTAINMENT AND SHOPPINGDining Options
Boasting four main dining precincts, Townsville offers the same dining experiences you could expect in any of Australia’s capital cities. Palmer Street, located adjacent to the city’s centre is home to a number of award-winning international restaurants, and is considered the ultimate place to wine and dine. For the coffee lovers, both Gregory Street and Flinders Plaza are ideal places 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.
Unique Retail
Townsville is well equipped to cater to one of everyone’s favourite pastimes - shopping! With three major shopping centres, Willows, Castletown and Stockland, Townsville offers shoppers a wide variety of retail choices in air conditioned comfort.
Markets are held regularly throughout the region, offering access to locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables, homemade sweets, baked goods, crafts, flowers, jewellery, pottery and paintings. The North Queensland Farmers Markets provides access to both north and far north Queensland’s best produce.
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, Trade Secret and Snooze, you’ll find everything you need in one convenient location. For furniture, homewares, gifts, fashion, food, hair care outdoor, fishing, boating and more, Domain Central has it all.
The surrounding regions are known for their local produce, delis and artefacts and each offers a unique shopping experience well worth taking the time to experience.
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 night life, with a full suite of nightclubs and entertainment venues. The city has come of age in recent years and is now home to funky cafes, laneways and boutique bars. Contemporary street art mixes harmoniously with heritage buildings and facades that remind you of the city’s roots.
The multi-award winning Jupiters Townsville Hotel & Casino is superbly located on the Townsville Breakwater, set amongst tropical landscaped gardens overlooking Cleveland Bay and Magnetic Island. The building is set to take on a transformation in months to come and will relaunch in 2016 as ‘The Ville’ a destination in its own right that draws on the region’s natural surrounds of the Great Barrier Reef, tropical rainforests and beaches.
Movies
Townsville offers three cinema complexes. Catching the latest movies is easy with four cinema complexes in Townsville and theatres and drive-ins in Charters Towers, Burdekin and Hinchinbrook. Townsville offers Reading Cinemas located at Cannon Park, Event Cinemas and BCC both positioned strategically in the CBD and Warrina Cineplex, a family owned independent cinema located in Currajong. Each of the centres is close by to dining options making a trip to the movies a very enjoyable experience.
NORTHERN LIVING
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TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTUREGetting Around – Townsville’s Transportation
Unlike major capital cities, Townsville offers a road network less congested and easy to navigate. Quick access to services and recreation facilities offers residents the ultimate work-life balance – with travel no longer impinging on your time.
Parking is free throughout most of Townsville, with paid parking in the CBD both easy to find and significantly cheaper than in capital cities. Parking in Townsville’s CBD will cost an average of $6 per day (8 hours) in comparison to $65.83 per day in Brisbane or $74.23 per day in Sydney (RACQ, 2012).
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 fantastic climate, it isn’t surprising that many residents make use of the bike paths for recreation as well as the main transportation route between work and home.
Townsville offers residents access to a comprehensive bus service which operates throughout the city using Queensland Transport’s ‘qconnect’ system. Townsville’s bus service offers a hail ‘n’ ride service as well as the regular scheduled stops to make public transport easier and more flexible. Long-distance coach services as well as school bus services are also available within Townsville.
The Townsville airport welcomes 1.6 million passengers annually and is host to a number of major airlines including Qantas, Virgin Blue, Rex, Air North, Alliance and Jetstar. This is expected to rise to 3.6 million passengers annually by 2030. Townsville’s regular flight paths offer linkages with both capital cities and key mining sites. Townsville is also a large hub for fly-in fly-out workers due to its great lifestyle and support services available for the mining industry and its families.
Magnetic Island is the most accessible island in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and is only a 20 minute ferry ride from Townsville. Passenger ferries service the island with 18 return trips a day; bus, coach and taxi transfers are available to and from the terminal. The Island offers access to a number of nature based walking tracks.
* PASSENGER NUMBERS VARY BETWEEN SEASONS
WHICH REGIONALAIRPORT IN AUSTRALIA SEES OVER 26,000* PASSENGERS EACH WEEK?
CBD DAILY PARKING COSTS
TOWNSVILLE BRISBANE
TOWNSVILLE CBD
IS YOUR COMMUTE TO WORK IN THE CITYAFFECTING YOUR WORK-LIFE BALANCE?
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NORTHERN LIVING
THE GREAT OUTDOORSTownsville 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.
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.
Boasting over 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.
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 11kms up the winding road to Paluma Village, is well known for its historic stone arch bridge built in the 1930s. Cascading waterfalls feed into one of the best freshwater swimming holes in the north.
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, 60 kms north of the city combine the rugged bush with necessary amenities and beachside getaways. Bushland, Saunders, Toolakea, Toomulla and Balgal Beaches offer fishing, swimming, picnicking and bird watching, combined with spectacular beach fronts.
WORLD HERITAGE LISTEDGREAT BARRIER REEF
WORLD HERITAGELISTED RAINFOREST
URBAN CENTRE
GREAT BARRIER REEF ISLANDS
INDIGENOUS CULTURE
WETLANDS
OUTBACK LANDSCAPES
Hinchinbrook
Townsville
Charters Towers
Burdekin
Palm Island
Magnetic Island
Palm Island
Ayr
Ingham
Charters Towers
50km100km150km TOWNSVILLE
Distance from Townsville
Key
Great Barrier ReefWHAT CAN YOU VISITWITHIN A 90 MINUTEDRIVE OF YOUR HOME IN TOWNSVILLENORTH QUEENSLAND?
Image by Megan MacKinnon
Image by Tracey Harrison-Hill
095
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 will 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: • 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
Parks and Gardens
Townsville North Queensland has over 350 parks and open spaces, providing a range of recreational activities for locals. Superb botanic gardens and parklands abound in the city of Townsville and include the world class Palmetum, the historic Queens Gardens, Anderson Gardens, Dan Gleeson Gardens and the Townsville Environmental Park. There are a number of easy to reach national parks offering a wide range of water sports, bird watching and bushwalking.
MAGNETIC ISLANDWHICH ISLAND PARADISE CAN YOU REACH FROM TOWNSVILLE BY FERRYIN JUST 20 MINUTES?
Image by Chris Wake Image by John Skewes
Image by Hans Bentzen
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NORTHERN LIVING
TYTO Wetlands
TYTO Wetlands is a unique 90-hectare natural wetland site that is home to over 230 species of birds and numerous tropical plant species in addition to such native Australian wildlife creatures as the wallaby.
Located just 500 metres from the township of Ingham and situated just a few hundred metres off the Bruce Highway down Cooper Street, TYTO Wetlands is a carefully preserved natural environment that integrates lagoons, walking tracks and native flora.
S.S. Yongala Wreck
The S.S. Yongala, once an ocean steaming vessel, is now an enchanting wreck, an artificial reef and home to an incredible array of marine life. Giant gropers, 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 from the Burdekin and easily accessible by boat.
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 or a week. With 23 beaches and bays, Magnetic Island has the natural beauty and serenity of untouched paradise within a thriving community. The rocky granite headlands fuse with sheltered bays and beaches, studded with majestic hoop pines trees, creating 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 and seven return vehicle ferry trips daily and is home to approximately 2,500 people. As a suburb of Townsville, Magnetic Island has all of the conveniences of the mainland.
Palm Island
Located 65kms 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 of the area make it a great fishing spot – specifically for mackerel and coral trout. The Island is serviced regularly by passenger and vehicle ferries and is home to approximately 2,500 people. The Island is the largest within the Palm Group of Islands which also include Fantome (Eumilli), Curacoa (Noogoo), Barber (Boodthean), Esk (Soopun), Falcon (Carbooroo), Eclipse (Garoogubbee), Brisk (Culgarool), Fly and Havannah.
Image by Megan MacKinnon
Image courtesy of Yongala Dive
Image by Budd Photography
097
Hinchinbrook Island
Separated from the mainland only by the narrow Hinchinbrook Channel, the rugged peaks of Hinchinbrook Island National Park rise abruptly from the sea, signalling the Island’s wild nature. Hinchinbrook 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 many locals for fishing and camping.
Orpheus Island
Orpheus Island National Park sit in the Palm Group of Islands. Book into the luxury resort or set up a self-sufficient camp in one of the Island’s 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 of the Island 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 where Charters Towers was widely referred to as ‘The World’ for it was deemed to have everything that a civilised 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.
Castle Hill
Just metres short of a mountain, Castle Hill is the giant pink granite monolith that stands proud 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 and Cleveland Bay, Townsville City and suburbs and the Northern Beaches. 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. BBQ facilities, swimming enclosures, freshwater showers, a waterpark, playgrounds and waterfront dining make this the obvious place to visit.
Image by Megan MacKinnon
Image by Megan MacKinnonImage by Paul Ewart
Image by Melissa Van Der Haak
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NORTHERN LIVING
HOUSINGTownsville offers a wide range of housing options to suit your permanent residence or renting needs. From modern chic inner-city apartments to traditional styled Queenslanders, Townsville has something to suit everyone’s style.
Townsville’s housing affordability is exceptional in comparison to other mainland capital cities with average median house prices currently at $350,000 (REIQ Queensland Market Monitor, March 2015). The median unit price currently stands at $227,900 for an established unit and $332,500 for a new build (Herron Todd White, March 2015).
MEDIAN HOUSE PRICETOWNSVILLE BRISBANE
WHERE CAN YOU BUY A COMFORTABLE FAMILYHOME IN A MAJOR CITYFOR JUST $350,000?
480K350K
Median House Price - ABS Q1 2015 $ (000s)
Sydney 786Canberra 580Darwin 573
Perth 545
Melbourne 528
Brisbane 480
Adelaide 420
Hobart 353
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WHICH REGION IS HOME TO GLOBAL LEADERS IN TROPICAL SCIENCE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT?
EMPLOYMENTTownsville 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 includes 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.
Skills in Demand
A Survey of Employers’ Recruitment Experiences conducted by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) in February 2013, highlighted the positions that are the most difficult to fill within the Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook, Palm Island and Townsville. The most common positions included Motor Mechanics, Child Carers, Chefs, Structural Steel and Welding Trades Workers, Early Childhood Teachers, Metal Fitters and Mechinists, Retail Managers, Truck Drivers, Bar Attendants and Baristas and Sales Representatives.
Growth Industries
Manufacturing, Public Administration, Safety and Construction are considered to be the Northern Region’s key propulsive sectors, which are determined as the key drivers to economic activity in Northern Queensland
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NORTHERN LIVING
EDUCATION, TRAINING AND TRADESThe 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 19,000 students including 5,600 internationals of more than 100 nationalities currently study at JCU. The University was established to conduct teaching and research on areas of importance to North 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 is 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 of the cohort being 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.
JAMES COOK UNIVERSITYCQUniversity
TAFE QUEENSLAND NORTHTEC-NQ
WHICH REGION IS HOME TO FOUR WORLD-CLASS EDUCATIONALINSTITUTIONS?
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-NQ’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 North Queensland allow Tec-NQ to bring training to regional centres.
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NORTHERN LIVING
SCHOOLS AND CHILDCAREThe 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 your 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) and All Souls St Gabriels School (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 Grammar School had the most academically successful students in Townsville North Queensland in 2014 while Pimlico State High School was the pick of the north’s public schools in 2010.
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.
WHERE CAN YOU FIND A BROAD CHOICE OF EDUCATIONAL OPTIONSWITH HIGHLY RENOWNEDACADEMIC, CULTURAL AND SPORTING RECORDS?
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HEALTH AND WELFAREA 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 provides the very latest in:
• Cardiac
• Obstetric
• Gynaecological
• Paediatric
• Neurosurgical
• Orthopaedic
The Townsville Hospital is the major teaching hospital for James Cook University’s Schools of Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health and for TAFE North. Maintaining a linkage with the local training facilities ensures that Townsville health services see a continual influx of medical professionals to cater for the growing population. The Hospital continues to expand with the first two stages of the $437M redevelopment project completed.
In April 2012, the Townsville Mater Hospital welcomed a $5 million clinical training school, which 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.
Support Services
There are a variety of support services that assist 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.
Aged Care Services
Townsville North Queensland provides a great location to retire. Whether you are looking for independent living services, home care, residential aged care including dementia retirement living, hostel style accommodation and day respite care, there is something for you and your family.
Disability Services
Townsville and the wider region offer more than 20 disability 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. Below are some of the services available:
• In home support
• Mobile attendant care program (medical, personal care)
• In-home flexible respite
• Children’s therapy and early intervention services
• Accommodation support
• Community access
• Sports and recreation programs
• Employment support
• Advocacy
• Carers services
• Transport services
• Mental health services
• Equipment sales and modifications, aids and appliances
• Oncology
• Mental health
• Neonatal
• Allied health
• Anaesthetic
• Intensive care
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NORTHERN LIVING
REGIONS AT A GLANCE
TOWNSVILLE
POPULATION AREA
Major Sports and Events: V8 Supercars Townsville 400, Australian Festival of Chamber Music, North Queensland Cowboys, Townsville Crocodiles, Townsville Fire, Townsville Running Festival, Groovin the Moo, Troy Dunn PBR Invitational, Townsville Triathlon Festival, Magnetic Island Race Week, Strand Ephemera, Winter Racing Carnival, Townsville Cultural Festival, Greek Fest
Major Cultural Assets: Jezzine Barracks, The Strand, Queens Gardens, Castle Hill, Town Common Wetlands, Riverway, Reid Park, Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre and proximity to Great Barrier Reef
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, 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, The Sun
Council: www.townsville.qld.gov.au
171,824 3,733km2
CHARTERS TOWERS
POPULATION AREA DISTANCE FROM TOWNSVILLE
Major Sports and Events: Goldfield Ashes, 10 Days in the Towers
Major Cultural Assets: Texas Longhorn Wagon Tours (Outback experience), Gold Heritage Trail, Venus Gold Battery and Heritage Buildings
Major Health Services: Public Hospital, GPs and allied health services
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
12,491 68,388km2 137km
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HINCHINBROOK
POPULATION AREA DISTANCE FROM TOWNSVILLE
Major Sports and Events: Australian Italian Festival Major Cultural Assets: Hinchinbrook Island, Wallaman Falls, TYTO Wetlands, Lucinda and Taylors Beaches, Wet Tropics Great Walks and Mungalla Cattle Station
Major Health Services: Public Hospital, GPs and allied health services
Major Industries: Agriculture, tourism, retail, services and manufacturing
Education: Private and public primary and secondary schools and TAFE Queensland North
Newspaper: The Herbert River Express
Council: www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au
11,700 2882km2 112km
BURDEKIN
POPULATION AREA DISTANCE FROM TOWNSVILLE
Major Sports and Events: Burdekin Grower Race Day, Burdekin Water Festival, Australian Hand Cane-Cutting Championships
Major Cultural Assets: Wongaloo Station, Silverlink Burdekin Bridge, SS Yongala Shipwreck
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
17,888 5,053km2 90km
PALM ISLAND
DISTANCE FROM TOWNSVILLEPOPULATION AREA
Major Sports and Events: Spring Festival, Palm Island Open Days
Major Cultural Assets: Indigenous heritage, beautiful islands and proximity to Great Barrier Reef
Major Health Services: Public Hospital
Council: www.piac.com.au
2,590 70.9km2 70km
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NOTES
TownsvilleNorth Queensland
Phone +61 7 4726 2728 Fax +61 7 4726 2700 Email [email protected]
Web www.townsvilleenterprise.com.auMAJOR PARTNERPRINCIPAL PARTNER