INDEPENDANT MP for Cook Billy Gordon is calling on State Government to support local businesses and approve the sale of State-land in Mareeba township, to enable a proposed $21 million shopping centre.

Gordon has written to and plans to meet with, Dr. Anthony Lynham, Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, to stress his full support for the project, which hinges on the Minister’s decision to release public land for the proposed development application. Gordon is urging the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce and the Mareeba Shire Council to back the proposal.

“Let’s get on with the project. There’s nothing else in the pipeline that matches this one. Mareeba Shire has high youth unemployment. This project would generate about 250 jobs, including entry-level jobs in maintenance, construction and retail,” Gordon said.

“Look at the bigger picture. This project would enhance Mareeba as a vibrant commercial and trade-hub for Cape York communities and the South Western communities beyond the Tablelands. It’s a significant economic stimuli being offered at the door-step, at a time when the QLD Government is courting non-Australian investors,” he said.

Gordon said that he was disappointed that the project, which was mooted a decade ago, is not receiving the full backing and support from Mareeba Shire Council.

“This is not good for business confidence when a local investor’s willingness to keep contributing to his local economy is stagnated because, State land is not being made available for development,” he said.

He said that the Minister should approve and send a clear message that the Government supports people staying and working in their local communities by approving the sale of the land for such a purpose to begin immediately.