Brisbane is set to become one of the world’s premier superyacht destinations under our plans for a major expansion of Rivergate Marina and Shipyard.
The proposed expansion of our internationally acclaimed shipyard would create an estimated 2,000 jobs including 1,500 marine industry positions and 500 tourism jobs in a post COVID-19 employment bonanza for Queensland.
It would have an end value of $200 million and could contribute close to $1 billion a year to the state’s economy.
The expansion would include the construction of a massive $35 million shiplift capable of lifting superyachts of up to 3,000 tonnes, or around 90 metres, for vital inspections, maintenance, repairs and refits.
Other plans include a hardstand with capacity for multiple superyachts, three large refit sheds, two in water service berths, a 5-storey Trade Centre with offices, training rooms, café, crew accommodation and recreation facilities, and extensive car parking.
Expansion plans include a $35 million shiplift for large superyachts up to 3,000 tonnes
Rivergate is by far the best place in Australia for a superyacht hub due to its central east coast location, proximity to an international airport, deep water access, year-round safe climate and abundant supply of skilled trades.
Rivergate is within easy cruising distance to the Great Barrier reef, Pacific islands and other iconic destinations much favoured by superyacht owners and charterers.
“We know that there is substantial pent-up demand among superyacht owners to visit our region, which is currently hampered by the lack of adequate lifting, repair and refit facilities,” said Rivergate Director Tom Hill.
“The world is experiencing a superyacht building boom and the average size of these vessels is also increasing, so the expansion of Rivergate is ideally timed to capitalise on this growth and capture a larger share of the market for Australia,” he said.
The 85-metre MY Amatasia docked at Rivergate
Rivergate is recognised as one of the top three shipyards in the world and respected by superyacht owners and crew for its highly-skilled trades, safe environment and warm hospitality.
We have serviced more than 300 vessels over the past 14 years, with recent visitors including MY Amatasia, MY Ramble on Rose, MY Ningaloo and MY No Comment.
Mr Hill said research commissioned by Rivergate had found that the expansion would generate $459.4 million a year for the local economy, including around $167.3 million in direct revenue from 60 superyachts undertaking repair and refit works. The regional tourism and provisioning benefits could be up to $525 million, making a total of about $984 million.
“Our research also shows that 75 per cent of the shipyard revenue will flow directly to small and medium-sized marine businesses in the local area, creating a huge economic boost and fostering new training and apprenticeship opportunities.
“This expansion will dramatically increase our capabilities, create the largest facility in the Asia Pacific region capable of lifting out and servicing multiple superyachts, and put Queensland and Australia firmly on the map as a priority superyacht destination.”
Mr Hill paid tribute to the State Government for its visionary Queensland Superyacht Strategy, which recognised the tremendous opportunity presented by the high-value superyacht industry.
He said plans for the Rivergate expansion were at an advanced stage with a Development Application lodged with Brisbane City Council this month and construction ready to commence in 2021.
2 November 2020
