A $6.6 million Great Barrier Reef pontoon delivering enchanting underwater visitor experiences is predicted to contribute up to $50 million to Tropical North Queensland's tourism-led economic recovery.
Member for Cairns and Assistant Tourism Minister Michael Healy said the three-level, 1000 square metre pontoon was ready to be towed to Moore Reef, 45 kilometres from Cairns.
"Moore Reef is one of the region's best locations to experience Reef Magic among colourful corals and abundant marine life," Mr Healy said.
"The Palaszczuk Government has invested $3 million in Experience Co.'s Reef Magic pontoon through the Growing Tourism Infrastructure Fund.
"Reef Magic pontoon was 18 months in the making and supported 40 construction jobs when Cairns needed them most.
"With its one-of-a-kind design, Reef Magic will take exploring the many wonders of the world-famous Great Barrier Reef to a completely new level.
"This will be the first new reef pontoon in the Cairns region for more than a decade.
"Experience Co. has tapped into the extensive knowledge of Traditional Owners and local construction expertise to create a unique reef and cultural visitor experience."
Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said Reef Magic would have capacity for 250 guests and support up to 59 operational jobs.
"Reef Magic is designed with underwater recreation, learning and sustainability in mind," Mr Hinchliffe said.
"The pontoon is powered by solar panels and wind turbines to reduce its carbon footprint on the reef.
"And there's a scientific lab onboard to support the important conservation work of marine biologists and Indigenous reef guides.
"Reef Magic's completion coincides perfectly with the reopening of the international border and the Palaszczuk Government's $200 million partnership with Queensland airports, including Cairns, to rebuild inbound overseas flight schedules.
"Our investment in Reef Magic recognises the importance of new, innovative visitor experiences to tourism recovery in the Tropical North.
"The pontoon opens up new snorkelling experiences for visitors of all abilities.
"It's even possible to be amazed by the reef's kaleidoscope of underwater life without getting your feet wet."
Reef Magic features an underwater observatory, specially designed water entry and step structure, bar, and sun deck.
CEO John O'Sullivan said Experience Co. had worked with Traditional Owner groups and Land and Sea Country Rangers for more than a decade.
"Steps have been taken to enrich visitor experiences with cultural input from Indigenous team members," Mr O'Sullivan said.
"We continue to provide opportunities and sustainable careers for Indigenous Australians."
General Manager of Experience Co's Great Barrier Reef Division Adam Jones thanked local construction partners Austal Shipyards and English Engineering for their work on Reef Magic.
"They have helped us construct a platform which ensures our impact to the environment is as minimal as possible so that the reef can be enjoyed by generations to come," Mr Jones said.
Experience Co. plans to tow Reef Magic to Moore Reef on Monday, weather permitting, and entertain and inform the pontoon's first visitors by March 2022.
