AUSTRALIA | The Townsville Quayside Cruise Terminal is set to be updated ahead of a busy season of international travellers.
The Port of Townsville Quayside Terminal will be upgraded to cater for an influx of passengers and crew on Large Class cruise ships in the 2024/25 cruise season.
The bus zone is being expanded to accommodate 12 coaches, up from four, and a dedicated kiss ‘n’ ride area is being constructed.
New seating, shade structures and landscaping are also included in the works.
A record 24 cruise ships are scheduled to berth in Townsville throughout the 2024 to 2025 season, including Large Class cruise ships for the very first time.
A total of 28,756 passengers and 13,877 crew will visit Townsville in 2024 to 2025, injecting almost $10 million into the local economy.
As part of the Port’s commitment to sustainability, an additional $3 million has been injected into renewable energy projects at the terminal.
430 solar panels and 60 battery banks were recently installed on the roof at Quayside Terminal. They are predicted to produce 279MWh of electricity annually, which equates to 10 percent of the Port’s annual electricity consumption.
Works have now commenced and will be complete ahead of the arrival of Silver Muse on 3 November, 2024, the first cruise ship for the 2024 to 2025 season.
Work will take place during daylight hours from Monday to Saturday.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish said that the upgraded port will greatly benefit the area.
“Almost 30,000 people are expected to pass through the Port of Townsville during the upcoming tourism season, showcasing just how much this tourism hub is growing every year,” said Mellish.
“These vital upgrades are further proof of our commitment to grow our regional economy, with a commitment to local workforces and more sustainable facilities.”
Local Townsville MP Scott Stewart said It was exciting to see the upgrades start ahead of the arrival of the Silver Muse, kicking off what promises to be a remarkable cruise season for Townsville.
"For the first time, we will welcome Large Class cruise ships to our port, a testament to our status as the capital of North Queensland,” said Stewart.
"With a record 24 cruise ships scheduled to berth in Townsville during the 2024/25 season, this upgrade will be pivotal in accommodating the influx of passengers and crew, and will provide a AUD $10 million boost to the local economy.
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