The State Government and Gold Coast City Council have announced that they will invite the private sector to tender for what could be the largest piece of integrated tourism infrastructure in Queensland’s history.
The Broadwater Marine Project will include the delivery of a Cruise Ship Terminal on State Government-owned land on the Spit or in the Broadwater.
In addition to the terminal, when completed, the multi-billion dollar integrated tourism facility could include hotels, a casino, super yacht facility, retail development, restaurants, entertainment and hospitality venues, commercial and residential development, significant open community space and recreation facilities.
According to recent research prepared by tourism consultancy firm EC3 Global, it is estimated that world-class integrated tourism developments have the potential to inject $750 million in additional tourism revenue annually into the Gold Coast economy and create more than 10,000 jobs locally by 2020.
The Broadwater Marine Project delivers on Mayor Tom Tate’s commitment to build a Cruise Ship Terminal for the city.
“I am delighted that we can work with the State to make a long talked about dream of a cruise ship terminal for our city a reality,” said Mayor Tate.
“This will mean a significant boost for our local economy, more local jobs and a long-lasting piece of tourism infrastructure for the Gold Coast.”
The Council and State are inviting major national and international consortia to submit their ideas and designs to transform the city’s Broadwater into a globally-acclaimed marine gateway that will ultimately boost tourism, business and the area’s recreational appeal.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate says the city will seek visionary Expressions of Interest that will set an outstanding benchmark by creating the most impressive project the city and Queensland has ever seen.
“We will seek an impressive, one-of-a-kind draw-card that will define our city and transform us into a truly global destination,” Mayor Tate said.
“We want to see an integrated attraction that will be globally renowned. We are Australia’s premier tourism, business and events destination.”
“In fact, as host of one of the world’s greatest sporting events in 2018 – the Commonwealth Games – we will showcase our vibrant city and citizens across the globe.”
“We deserve the best, which is why we are calling for consortia from around the world with the flair, courage and commitment to be part of our city’s exciting future.”
Mayor Tate said he was very encouraged by the State Government’s support for the delivery of a major project on State-owned land on the Broadwater, including the Spit and Wave Break Island.
“The timing is ideal. It will encourage multi-billion dollar investment in our city.”
“The message we are getting from high-level tourism operators and local business is ‘build something new and spectacular and they will come’,” he said.
“Right now, our city is crying out for a boost in tourists.”
“We look forward to seeing the ideas,” he said at the announcement today.
“This is not just about a cruise ship terminal. This is about creating an international wow factor for tourists and the local community.”
Mayor Tate said Council would continue to meet with community and marine-based stakeholders to outline the project and provide detailed information.
“We will continue to work with the community, tourism, surfing and environmental stakeholders throughout the project,” said Mayor Tate.
“This is the opportunity to transform currently unused land into a one-of-a-kind marine-based hub in the heart of Australia’s leading tourist destination. My promise to the people of the Gold Coast is to boost the economy through tourism and jobs. Together we can achieve this and create something special for our city.”