Cairns business Intrust Energy Solutions will deliver electric charging stations for an Australian-first pilot project to install the devices at six popular Far North Queensland tourist destinations.
The project has been developed and implemented by the Department of State Development, through Economic Development Queensland – state government's specialist land use planning and property development unit – and is being delivered with sponsorship from RACQ.
Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said the joint Queensland Government and RACQ project will help supercharge tourism and bolster jobs across Cairns.
"We're thrilled to have awarded Intrust Energy Solutions, who have offices across the Cairns region, and EVSE Australia the contract to install the network of six electric vehicle charging stations at key tourist attractions across Tropical North Queensland," Mr Dick said.
"The Tropical North Queensland Electric Vehicle Drive will create a world-class sustainable multi-day tourism experience, offering free electric vehicle charging over the 12-month trial period.
"We're proud to be partnering with RACQ to power-up this important demonstration project that will provide free vehicle recharges at key tourist attractions across Far North Queensland to help support local jobs."
RACQ Head of Public Policy Dr Rebecca Michael said the project would help attract more national and international tourists to Tropical North Queensland.
"We are excited to be working with the Queensland Government to deliver this exciting pilot program," Dr Michael said.
"With a focus on eco-tourism, this project is demonstrating how road tourism can transition to a sustainable future."
Intrust Group founder and Business Development Manager Mick Guli said the pilot was a great project for the organisation to work on.
"Our people are learning new skills and we look forward to helping our region embrace the move to electric vehicles," Mr Guli said.
Member for Cairns Michael Healy said the pilot project is already benefiting the region.
"To have the installation of the charging stations awarded to Cairns-based Intrust Energy Solutions is brilliant," Mr Healy said.
"Projects such as the Tropical North Queensland Electric Vehicle Drive support local jobs and build on our region's demand for environmentally friendly tourism options, in addition to our established tourism offerings."
Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said the project will support the growing trend in green tourism.
"Visitors are becoming more conscious in their travels, so to provide a free electric vehicle charging station at many of our iconic tourist attractions such as Skyrail is a positive step in making Tropical North Queensland a must-visit destination," Mr Crawford said.
Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the agreement between the Queensland Government and RACQ to deliver this innovative project will have a positive impact on the region.
"Attractions such as Hartley's Crocodile Adventures and the Mossman Gorge Visitor Centre will become key hubs for travellers who wish to recharge their car for free and experience some of the best attractions we have to offer," Ms Lui said.
Installation of the new destination charging stations started this week at Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Hartley's Crocodile Adventures and the Mossman Gorge Visitor Centre.
Construction will start in the coming weeks at Paronella Park, Historic Village Herberton and Coffee Works Mareeba.
