TOWNSVILLE’S interest in linking to a gas pipeline from the Northern Territory to the east coast is likely to be the tipping point in deciding on Mount Isa as the preferred route.
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Key Townsville figures have now expressed their interest to get involved in the move to access Northern Territory gas as it heads to the east coast market.
Treasurer Joe Hockey revealed in the federal budget a $5 billion North Australia infrastructure fund to provide large concessional loans for the construction of ports, pipelines, power and water infrastructure.
Linking the gas pipeline from Tennant Creek to Mount Isa and onto Townsville could become part of the federal government’s plan to develop northern Australia.
Townsville mayor Jenny Hill signalled her interest in a gas pipeline from Mount Isa project during Mr Hockey’s visit to the north this week and said a base-load power station would create jobs and deliver low-cost energy.
She has already started discussions about the pipeline linking Mount Isa to Townsville with Queensland’s Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Anthony Lynham.
The move could potentially open up cheaper energy for the entire North West corridor to the coast.
Mount Isa mayor Tony McGrady said Townsville’s interest should be enough to ensure Tennant Creek to Mount Isa was the selected route.
“The fact that the mayor of Townsville has entered into the discussions augers well for the final decision,” he said.
Cr McGrady said the Tennant Creek - Mount Isa Cross Border Alliance held brief discussions with Cr Hill and believed working together would create the Northern triangle for the gas pipeline.
