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The Cairns Regional Trade Distribution Centre is gearing up for take-off, with construction of the new facility underway at Cairns Airport.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Steven Miles said Hansen Yuncken have been contracted to build the centre, with Air Freight Handling Services overseeing development of the project and handling operations once complete.
"This will be a much-valued asset to our agricultural and aquacultural industries in Far North Queensland," Mr Miles said.
"The Palaszczuk Government is investing $10 million through our Jobs and Regional Growth Fund to deliver this facility for the region.
"It will become Queensland's second state-supported regional export hub, following the completion last year of our trade distribution facility in Toowoomba.
"The centre will give FNQ operators improved access to major markets, especially throughout Asia."
The 2400-square-metre facility will house large cold and freezer rooms, temperature-controlled spaces and ambient transit areas.
On site to turn the first sod, Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said early works will create 30 local construction jobs, with a further 30 jobs to be supported once the facility is operational, including nine new roles.
"Construction of the Cairns Regional Trade Distribution Centre provides an immediate economic boost for the region," Mr Dick said.
"It's fantastic to see progress being made on what will become a vital piece of Queensland's freight and export network.
"Building this centre in the Cairns International Airport freight precinct will guarantee seamless distribution of our premium local produce to international markets.
"Queensland's agricultural exports were valued at $13 billion for 2021, a 28 per cent increase from 2020, and this centre will push those numbers even higher in the years ahead."
Member for Cairns Michael Healy said the centre will supercharge freight access for FNQ, giving confidence to local businesses and creating local jobs.
"We know the world loves Far North Queensland flavours, and this will get our products overseas faster and fresher," Mr Dick said.
"Whether it's seafood or beef, fruit and vegetables, nuts or dairy, we farm and produce some of the best on offer.
"With the Cairns Regional Trade Distribution Centre, we have a huge opportunity to further increase our reach towards lucrative markets.
"The future is shining bright for growers and producers in the north."
AFHS Managing Director Barb Ford said with the development application approved and the 3600-square-metre site secured, the company were looking forward to moving quickly.
"Hansen Yuncken will start construction immediately, with the build expected to take approximately nine months," Ms Ford said.
"There will be construction jobs created now, and operational jobs and ongoing opportunities right through the supply chain once the facility is up and running.
North Queensland Airport CEO Richard Barker said the new facility will greatly benefit the region's freight network.
"This centre will add significant value to Cairns Airport and is another major step in helping international aviation to rebound," Mr Barker said.
Learn more about the Queensland Government's investment programs and how they're facilitating high-impact projects and supporting long-term job creation across the state.
