Early works are set to begin on the Regional Trade Distribution Centre (RTDC) project at Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport.
Queensland Development Minister, Kate Jones, said the project would provide an immediate boost to businesses in Toowoomba, with initial earthworks to start immediately.
“We’re working hard to fast-track projects that will get our economy moving again,” Ms Jones said.
“Earthworks will start immediately. This means jobs for local construction workers and contracts for suppliers.”
The Queensland Government recently also announced up to $10 million to support a regional trade hub, focusing on exports, for Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.
“This hub will generate millions of dollars’ worth of business for local companies – particularly primary producers and exporters in the region,” Ms Jones said.
“We know that businesses are taking a hit due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We want to get this hub up and running as soon as possible and the Wagners agree.
“The Wagner Corporation has submitted its development application for the 3500 square metre RTDC facility to Toowoomba Regional Council and to provide work continuity to its staff, the company is getting a head start on the initial bulk earthworks at the airport.
“This will give our world-leading primary producers and exporters an edge, allowing them to return to international marketplaces that are keen to get as much of Queensland’s high-quality products as they can.”
Ms Jones said, following all the necessary approvals, the RTDC was scheduled to be built within ten months.
“That means jobs on-site, jobs through the supply chain and more jobs with our primary producers and exporters,” Ms Jones said.
In October 2019, Queensland Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, announced Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport as one of two successful tenderers vying to develop a multi-million-dollar regional export hub.
The expansion will comprise state-of-the-art large cold and freezer rooms and both temperature-controlled and ambient large transit areas.
The new facility will be used to export premium goods including, but not limited to, beef, dairy products, fresh fruit and vegetables, pork and packaged nuts.
Wagner Corporation Chairman, John Wagner, said as a proud Toowoomba-based company, they were delighted to be working with the Queensland Government on such a first-class export facility and promoting the growth of Australian exports and jobs.
“We offer a very efficient cargo service and it’s about quick access and quick turnarounds,” Mr Wagner said.
“Wellcamp’s international freighter operations began in late 2016 and are showing year-on-year growth for both inbound and outbound volumes.
“The growth includes major defence support and a focus on perishable products to Asia and the Middle East which we expect to return to normal post-COVID-19.”
