An extra $1 million of public money has been allocated to complete Stage Three of the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) at Magnetic Island in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
Minister for Tourism, Kate Jones said the three stages of MOUA works would provide 72 construction jobs and 182 operational jobs.
“The Museum of Underwater art gives us a huge point of difference here in Townsville and reminds everyone that this region is one of the best places in the State to visit while holidaying on the Great Barrier Reef,” Ms Jones said.
She said the Ocean Siren at the Strand was already attracting nightly interest and the Coral Greenhouse at John Brewer Reef was officially opened to visitors in April.
“With COVID-19 border restrictions carefully being lifted, locals and interstate visitors are exploring Queensland to experience the natural beauty and unique culture of our State,” Ms Jones said.
“This project ticks all the boxes and will generate a great flow-on effect for tourism businesses in North Queensland in months and years to come.”
The Minister said Magnetic Island, given its easy accessibility by ferry from Townsville, was one of the most visited islands in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, currently attracting about 250,000 visitors a year.
MP for Townsville, Scott Stewart said the project was part of the Government’s Unite and Recover jobs plan to help kick-start regional economies after COVID-19.
“Tourism is vital to the North Queensland economy — when this sector is performing, everyone benefits,” Mr Stewart said.
