The LNP has guaranteed $6.8 million to help deliver a collaborative food and beverage manufacturing precinct on the Sunshine Coast, if elected this month.
The Opposition announced a commitment to support the planned Turbine facility at Caloundra.
The end-to-end food and beverage precinct is expected to provide opportunities for businesses at all stages and sizes to build, scale and export, from under one roof.
LNP candidate for Caloundra Kendall Morton said the precinct was worth investing in.
“The Sunshine Coast has one of the most exciting food and agribusiness networks in Queensland and the LNP is proud to support exciting project which will support local businesses and local jobs,” she said.
“The LNP’s commitment will fund the creation of a food and beverage manufacturing hub, driving down costs for startups with shared equipment and facilities, and giving local businesses the chance to scale.
“This precinct will include partnerships with research, education and training, and government organisations to support individuals and businesses in our growing food and agribusiness sector.
“This project will unlock growth, accelerate innovation and create a national blueprint for collaborative food and beverage manufacturing right here in Caloundra.”
Turbine Project CEO Andrew Eves-Brown welcomed the funding announcement and said the precinct would benefit the community.
“The impact of this project will be significant with over 400 jobs being created during the construction phase and, once operational, it is estimated that more than 150 high-value manufacturing and business roles will be created,” he said.
“The project will have a significant economic impact on the region producing over $2 billion impact over the first 10 years of operation.”
The project has received grant funding from the federal government as part of the Modern Manufacturing Strategy.
The 30,321sqm site, which is owned by the state government, is at Corbould Park.
Construction is yet to start. The precinct is expected to be operational by the end of 2025 or in early 2026.
The Member for Caloundra, Labor’s Jason Hunt, has been contacted for comment.
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