CIM NEWS MAGAZINE Issue 4 2017 | Page 14

NORTH QUEENSLAND 1 2 Future proof A wave of investment has arrived in North Queensland, heralding a new era of tourism for the region with some major developments in the pipeline, writes Brittney Levinson. A new aquarium, several new hotels and an expanded convention centre are just some of the developments North Queensland will see over the next few years. The surge in investment, particularly in the Cairns region, has come off the back of a strong tourism performance over the last few years, according to Rosie Douglas, director of business and tourism events at Business Events Cairns and Great Barrier Reef. “The industry’s certainly bounced back and that’s been a combination of the Australian dollar being a lot more competitive, good aviation access into the region through both domestic and international terminals, and the tourism industry in general has been a lot stronger,” she says. Add to that a push from the Cairns Regional Council, who “led the way” by committing to a number of projects in the city, and you get very strong investment confidence in the region. One of the most notable developments is the Crystalbrook Collection project that will see three 5-star hotels open in under three years. The project will start with the redevelopment of the Rydges Tradewinds hotel, transforming it into a 311-room hotel with a new 12-storey tower built alongside. Slated to open by July 2018, the property will boast a rooftop bar and lounge, and function and conference spaces for 300 guests. Another dual-tower hotel is planned to open nearby in February 2019 with 222 rooms, 110 apartments, and function spaces, followed by a 300-room premier hotel and street food dining precinct set to open in late 2019. Just around the corner, the highly-anticipated Cairns Aquarium is taking shape, with Mackay - delivering spectacular business outcomes. Queensland’s 1000+ seat Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre offers an award-winning regional meeting venue option. To find out more, call Nicky about famil opportunities on (+617) 4961 9761. themecc.com.au 14   Convention & Incentive Marketing, Issue 4, 2017    www.cimmagazine.com