PORT of Townsville has chosen local property development company Reef House Investment Group as the preferred proponent to develop a waterfront site on Flinders St.
The development, which is to be built on the site of the old Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority offices, is between Reef HQ and the Museum of Tropical Queensland.
Port of Townsville chief executive Ranee Crosby said the development would stimulate the potential for a world leading marine science, research, business education and tourism hub.
“This is an exciting project for the Port, as the landowners of the property, and it also represents an opportunity to revitalise and reactivate this prime Townsville location,” Ms Crosby said.
“In addition to promoting Townsville as a leading centre for marine science and tourism, the hub intends to provide an active and engaging visitor experience through linkages to the adjoining Museum of Tropical Queensland and Reef HQ Aquarium.”
RHIG director Paul Spina said he was excited by the opportunity.
“This will not only create local jobs, but more importantly will showcase marine science, research, culture, business, education and tourism with a focus on the Great Barrier Reef,” Mr Spina said.
RHIG is a consortium involving local developer PDS QLD Pty Ltd and investment group Wilbow Group Pty Ltd.
Port of Townsville sought bids for the redevelopment of the site via an open market Expression of Interest and Request for Proposal.
Stakeholders including GBRMPA, Reef HQ, the Australian Institute of Marine Science, James Cook University and the Museum of Tropical Queensland were consulted.
