Townsville, often referred to as the "Capital of North Queensland", is
strategically positioned as a major commercial centre. Its deepwater port is a
major export conduit for minerals from the resource rich North West Minerals
Province, live cattle from the vast cattle producing regions of Outback
Australia and sugar from the fertile eastern seaboard. Townsville's strategic
importance is further exemplified through the choice of numerous government
departments, armed forces, large corporates and small businesses making the city
their headquarters. The result is a solid and stable economy that has over the
years continued to grow while other centres experience booms and busts.
With copper, zinc and nickel refineries operating in the city, Townsville had
established itself as one of the world's metallurgical powerhouses. Major
industrial development events include Queensland Nickel presently undertakng a
$A 450 million refinery expansion program, recent connection of the 2 base load
power stations to the Moranbah CH4 gas pipeline, and the likely prospect of a
new 450 megawatt power station coming on-line around 2009. Other major projects
include the $A 1 billion cruise terminal and residential canal estate
development. Developments such as these will continue to accelerate Townsville's
economic vibrancy in future years.
Townsville is also becoming a significant tourism centre with numerous
attractions within the city and surrounding regions. It is on the doorstep to
the Great Barrier Reef, North Queensland’s Tropical Rainforest region, and
Outback attractions including the historical Goldfields of Charters Towers and
Ravenswood.
Overview of Townsville
