Mayor Joyce McCulloch said the hub was a viable project which would provide job creation and wide-spread economic benefits given the city’s regional significance and ideal placement between Queensland and the Northern Territory.

“With large forecasted growth for the NT transport, mining and energy sectors and the Federal Government’s vision for the development of Norther Australia, now is the time to realise the viability of this project,” Cr McCulloch said.

“Mount Isa is ideally placed as a major regional centre and gateway to Southern Queensland and also northern and eastern ports.”

The concept includes the provision for road and rail transport, air freight links, short and long term road train parking, 24-hour fuel and food stops, biosecurity truck wash down facilities, warehousing, mining plant and civil plant holding, and cattle transfer facilities.

Opportunities such as the gas pipeline project and Tennant Creek to Mount Isa rail proposal have been considered for increasing the viability of the Transport Hub.

Member for Mount Isa Rob Katter has thrown his support behind the plan.

“The growth of Mount Isa and the development of industry enabling infrastructure is something we need to continuously promote,” Mr Katter said. “As a central point between the NT and Queensland’s urban centres, I’ve no doubt this Transport Hub will significantly benefit the North West.

“I fully support the Council in their work on this project, and will do all I can to assist at a state level,” he said.

Mount Isa City Council’s five year vision in their strategic plan involves working with mining and industry to create diversification and to provide infrastructure and logistical support for the region.

Council says it wants to develop initiatives to provide an attractive environment for mining, heavy industry, the cattle industry and assist transport efficiencies as well as industrial services, light industry, tourism, transport, and wholesale and retail commerce sectors.