Boating success story gives the nod to new shipyard plan
South Wharf
Reef tourism operator Quicksilver has thrown its weight behind a new Port Douglas marine-industry-precinct plan for the south wharf area.
Quicksilver Group managing director Tony Baker said he welcomed a recent State Government announcement of a $300,000 scoping study to see if the precinct - which would likely include a boat-repair centre, shops and cafes near the Port Douglas Yacht Club - would be viable.
“It’s encouraging to see support for a business case into the development of a marine precinct here in Port Douglas,” Mr Baker said.
“A dedicated local maintenance and marine services facility would provide significant benefits for the region, supporting the many commercial and private vessels operating locally while also attracting skilled trade jobs and creating long-term employment opportunities.
“Following the closure of the Mossman Mill in 2024, projects such as this are especially important in helping diversify the local economy and strengthen future employment in the region.”
The project is expected to include a smaller travel lift than the 5000-ton one planned for Cairns, which would cater for a niche market of reef boats and private vessels not currently being serviced there.
With the navy now leading the development of the Cairns boat-building industry, there is a need for Port Douglas to fill that market, Port Douglas project backers said.
This will provide jobs in shipyard services such as diesel fitting and electrical services, helping to bring back skilled workers lost to the region after the mill closed down, they said.
And a new shop precinct would also help provide more local jobs.
The marine precinct scoping study is expected to be completed within about four months.
