EarthCheck

World Heritage centre earmarked for Cairns Entertainment Precinct

The Cairns Entertainment Precinct has been earmarked as the home for the proposed World Heritage Gateway Centre.

A study is under way to consider the proposal which could see additional government money for the region, in the millions of dollars, and an added attraction at the precinct.

It is one of the ideas in a $60,000 pre-feasibility study commissioned by the Wet Tropics Management
Authority.

Authority executive director Andrew Maclean said incorporating the centre in the waterfront precinct was one of the options the study would explore.

"We will work closely with the council to be an essential part of the complex," he said.

Mr Maclean said it would be "compatible and very complementary" to the precinct which also includes a performing arts centre, a multi-purpose rehearsal space and studio, a community cultural centre and a public plaza.

He said the precinct would not be the only venue considered, but was a preferred site.

A team led by EC3 Global, including travel company Parker Travel Collection and architects Clarke Hopkins Clarke, has been commissioned to undertake the study and develop a concept that will "inspire investment in a must-see destination for the state and something that positions Tropical North Queensland as the gateway to world heritage''.

A project steering committee consists of representatives from Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation, Tourism Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and the Wet Tropics Management Authority representatives.

"A key priority is raising awareness and building appreciation for the region's significant natural, cultural and ecological diversity," an authority report said.

"The proposed World Heritage Gateway Centre has the potential position Tropical North Queensland as the 'Centre of Excellence' in World Heritage management and one of the richest learning landscapes in the world," it said.

Mr Maclean said Cairns was the obvious gateway to two of Australia's key World Heritage areas - the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics.

A final report is expected in May.

To have your say visit www.wettropics.gov.au/media/med_current.html

Source: Nick Dalton - The Cairns Post