6 Aug 2012

$A3 billion Sunshine Coast upgrade mooted

10:01 am on 6 August 2012

Queensland mining magnate Clive Palmer has unveiled plans to revitalise tourism on the Sunshine Coast with development totalling up to $A3 billion.

His proposals include expanding the Sunshine Coast airport so it can handle international Airbus A380 and Boeing 747 aircraft.

Mr Palmer wants to build a 1000-bed beachfront hotel and a theme park at the site of his existing Coolum resort and on adjoining state government land.

The airport would be linked to the Coolum resort by an electric rail service. A hovercraft service would operate from Brisbane's CBD.

Proposals also include a casino for high rollers, an aquarium and an aviary.

The ABC reports Mr Palmer expects his plans to create 9000 jobs.

He says Queensland is up to 30 years behind top international travel destinations.