Build our aquarium ASAP, city leads say
City leaders are urging Anthony Albanese to make the Townsville aquarium a “infrastructure priority” as the demolition site continues to be an eyesore on Flinders St.
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As the Federal Budget approaches, Townsville Enterprise have submitted their wishlist and it starts with an immediate $100m to kickstart phase one of the waterfront revitalisation project.
The advocacy group unveiled plans in March 2024 to transform the Flinders St waterfront precinct - and it all hangs on the Global Great Barrier Reef Centre of Excellence, long-promised to be a “jewel in Townsville’s tourism crown”.
However, progress hasn’t been quick on this jewel after Reef HQ was closed in 2021 for renovations.
Since then, Reef HQ has been demolished entirely and new plans were revealed to rebuild the aquarium by 2026 for $80m - but progress stalled due to funding issues.
Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith isn’t willing to let the debacle hold up her waterfront plans.
“We have a plan, our vision is set, the business case stacks up, our city leaders are in agreeance,” Ms Brumme-Smith said.
“The importance of the first stage of the Global Great Barrier Reef Centre of Excellence cannot be underestimated.”
Mayor Troy Thompson backed Ms Brumme-Smith’s calls for aquarium progress.
“This project has been stalled for too long, we need to see the Federal Government commit an additional $100m to the precinct,” Cr Thompson said.
“As a council we are continuously working to grow Townsville and enhance our existing tourism offerings while supporting the creation of new landmark tourism destinations.”
When the Federal Budget was being drafted several months ago, the Townsville Enterprise submitted their plans for a new waterfront, but still haven’t received word if they’ve bagged the funding.
“We eagerly await a response next week,” Ms Brumme-Smith said.
“The Aquarium component within the Great Barrier Reef Centre of Excellence will alone
generate more than 1,300 direct and indirect jobs across our region and contribute over
$444m to our local economy.”
The 2024 Federal Budget will be delivered on Tuesday, May 14.
Originally published as Build our aquarium ASAP, city leads say
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