The organisation driving economic development in Far North Queensland, Advance Cairns, is sounding the alarm over a major infrastructure roadblock. The group is calling for decisive action to resolve the issues stalling the critical $300 million Cairns Marine Precinct shiplift project.
Project Stalled by Funding and Planning Hurdles
Advance Cairns chief executive, Jacinta Reddan, has highlighted the urgent need for solutions to get the massive project back on track. The proposed shiplift, a facility designed to haul large vessels out of the water for maintenance and repair, is seen as a cornerstone for the region's maritime and defence industry ambitions.
However, the project has hit a significant impasse. The primary obstacles centre on funding shortfalls and complex planning approvals. While the federal government has committed a substantial investment, the total cost and the intricate process of moving the project from concept to construction have created a standstill. Reddan emphasised that without a clear path forward, the economic and strategic benefits of the precinct will remain unrealised.
Strategic Importance for Defence and Industry
The Cairns Marine Precinct is not just a local infrastructure project; it holds national significance. The facility is strategically positioned to support the maintenance and sustainment of Royal Australian Navy vessels, including the new fleet of Arafura-class offshore patrol vessels. This capability is vital for Australia's sovereign defence and maritime security.
Beyond defence, the shiplift is crucial for the commercial maritime sector. It would service the region's commercial fishing fleet, superyachts, and other large vessels, creating a hub for maritime excellence. The project promises to generate hundreds of jobs during construction and many more highly skilled positions once operational, providing a major boost to the Far North Queensland economy.
Call for Collaboration and Urgent Resolution
Advance Cairns is pushing for all levels of government and key industry stakeholders to collaborate closely to break the deadlock. Reddan argues that the project's importance demands a coordinated effort to untangle the bureaucratic and financial knots.
The organisation is advocating for a dedicated taskforce or a streamlined approval process to cut through the red tape. The message is clear: further delays are unacceptable and risk undermining the region's potential as a premier maritime centre. The time for planning is over; the time for action is now.
The future of the Cairns Marine Precinct and its associated shiplift hangs in the balance. With strong advocacy from Advance Cairns and growing pressure from the local business community, the hope is that 2024 will see the decisive steps needed to transform this $300 million vision into a tangible reality for Far North Queensland.
