City of Logan rises as industrial powerhouse

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The City of Logan continues to strengthen its position as an industrial powerhouse in south-east Queensland, attracting more than $1.7 billion of national and international investment during the last 18 months.

Despite challenging global economic conditions, Logan’s industrial sectors have continued to push forward—building approvals have far exceeded the previous financial year, with more than double gross floor area approved in 2019-20.

Businesses in the transport and logistics, manufacturing and construction industries are key drivers in the local economy, generating $8.3 billion in revenue annually and creating almost one in three local jobs.

Located between the Queensland cities of Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Logan is fast becoming the region’s leading transport and logistics hub, with unrivalled access to major arterials and in close proximity to three international airports and the Port of Brisbane.

Recent infrastructure upgrades, including Transurban’s $512 million Logan Enhancement Project, have improved freight productivity and spurred commercial activity along Logan’s major industrial corridor.

Logan will soon be home to one of the largest industrial estates in Queensland—and the largest in the city’s history—with the Crestmead Logistics Estate breaking ground in August this year.

The $1.5 billion estate, to be developed during the next five years by Pointcorp, will deliver 650,000 sqm of warehousing, business, logistics and manufacturing space.

With the unprecedented demand for industrial space driven by consumers, the Crestmead Logistics Estate will enter the market at a pivotal time in the history of Logan and the wider region.

Matthew Frazer-Ryan, national director, industrial at Colliers International, said Logan was an exceptional location for this landmark development.

“The estate is just 6.4km from the Logan Motorway and Gateway Motorway interchange within the hugely successful Berrinba-Crestmead industrial region.

“This location benefits significantly from the recently-upgraded Wembley Road Interchange, providing occupiers with efficient access to a network of roads servicing greater Brisbane, south-east Queensland and key interstate transport routes,” Frazer-Ryan said.

Singapore’s Mapletree Logistics Trust will develop stage one of the estate into a $440 million world-class logistics park spanning 200,000 sqm.

Mapletree boasts an impressive tenant network of well-known multinational brands and has a multi-billion-dollar global asset base across real estate in Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, China, South Korea, Malaysia and Vietnam.

This follows more than $240 million of investment from a number of national and international companies moving in or expanding their footprint in Logan including DHL, CEVA Logistics, Mitre 10 and JB Hi Fi.

In addition, national third-party logistics (3PL) company McPhee Distribution Services and multinational Japanese gas appliance manufacturer Rinnai Corporation completed their $40 million warehouse in August.

Situated in the well-established industrial precinct in Berrinba, the 13,000 sqm facility co-locates McPhee Distribution Services and Rinnai Corporation’s Queensland headquarters.

With 3PL providers in high demand, McPhee Distribution Services managing director Jay McPhee said having ready access to their customers in south-east Queensland has been advantageous during this time, and reinforces the decision to set up in Logan for the long-term.

“We will be based in Logan for the next 20 to 30 years at least.”

As the second-fastest growing city in the region, Logan has access to a catchment of more than 2.6 million potential customers, a vast network of suppliers and a diverse pool of talent.

The city’s growing population was a key drawcard for air delivery company Wing’s world-first autonomous drone delivery service, which recently celebrated one year of operation in Logan.

Based in the South West 1 Enterprise Park in Berrinba, Wing saw customer demand surge in March to May, and plans to expand its service in coming months.

The South West 1 Enterprise Park was an initiative of Logan City Council to attract investment and jobs to the city.

Established in 2013, companies such as Phoenix Transport, National Tiles, PACCAR, GMK, Avery Dennison, Huhtamaki and Sigma Healthcare have moved into the estate.

Recently achieving a significant milestone, the industrial estate reached its completion with the construction of Phoenix Transport’s 9,999 sqm custom-built facility.

In response to the take-up in South West 1 Enterprise Park and existing tenants in the Crestmead Industrial Estate, Queensland developer De Luca Corporation is nearing completion of the first stage of Berrinba Central—a $60 million mixed-use development that will provide essential services for the area and surrounding suburbs.

With thousands of jobs created and millions of dollars funnelled into Logan since the inception of South West 1 Enterprise Park, its success shows how the city is evolving and has become a key player in south-east Queensland’s industrial sector.

Why invest in the City of Logan? Visit loed.com.au/investinlogan to find out more.

New $1.5b, nine stage industrial estate to drive investment and jobs creation in Logan

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Up to 6000 jobs will be created at one of Queensland’s largest industrial projects.

The $1.5 billion Crestmead Logistics Estate will be developed over the next five years by Queensland developer Pointcorp and will deliver 650,000 sqm of warehousing, business, logistics and manufacturing space.

Stage one of the project will be completed in December. The 36-hectare parcel was purchased by Singapore’s Mapletree Investments for $90 million. It will develop a $440 million logistics park spanning 200,000 sqm.

City of Logan Mayor Darren Power visited the site today with Queensland Treasurer and Member for Woodridge Cameron Dick.

Cr Power said the nine-stage project was a “game-changer” for South East Queensland.

“This project is a strong endorsement for investment in our city and will create thousands of jobs for locals,” he said.

“Council is committed to ensuring that Logan remains an attractive place for businesses to establish and grow.

“Our city is facing economic challenges like many others around the country with COVID-19 impacts and this sends a clear message that Logan is open for business.”

Cr Power said ‘Logan well and truly punched above its weight’ and was fast establishing itself as a hub for major transport and logistics in Queensland.

“There are vast investment opportunities in Logan for companies in the manufacturing, transport and logistics industries and we anticipate this growth in the commercial and industrial sector to continue,” he said.

“We are seeing a platform of investment across the city where multinationals are setting up headquarters and securing land that is affordable and abundant.

“This location benefits significantly from the recently upgraded Wembley Road Interchange, providing occupiers with efficient access to a network of roads servicing greater Brisbane, South East Queensland and key interstate transport routes.”

Cr Power said planning support and guidance from Council would also enhance development outcomes and assist in job creation and long-term employment opportunities within the region.

Located within the Logan City Council industrial corridor, Crestmead Logistics Estate is accessible to the Logan and Gateway Motorways, which are the main transport arterials for SEQ.

Crestmead Logistics Estate Aerial view

Aerial view of the planned Crestmead Logistics Estate

Queensland Treasurer and Member for Woodridge Cameron Dick said the potential of the estate was obvious, making it an exciting addition to Logan’s industrial landscape.

“Job creation is so important right now given the current global economic climate,” Mr Dick said.

“COVID-19 has had a huge impact on every community in our state, Logan included. A development of this size will make a great difference when it comes to boosting employment locally.

“We’re seeing this already with construction workers on site, and once businesses begin setting up shop here those job numbers are going to grow, both in the estate and along industry supply chains.

“This project complements our government’s $6.2 billion COVID economic recovery strategy, Unite and Recover for Queensland Jobs, and will help the City of Logan emerge from the pandemic stronger and best placed to prosper.”

The project, on the corner of Green and Clarke Roads, has been amalgamated over a five-year period and adds to an existing 170,000 sqm of commercial activity underway or planned in Logan over the next 12 months.

Logan development snapshot

  • DHL – 32,000m² $38m 132 jobs (complete)
  • Mitre 10 – 27,000m² $50m 110 jobs (complete)
  • Alphabet (Wing) – 15,000m² 36 jobs (complete)
  • Queensland Logistics Service – 15,000m² 20 jobs (complete)
  • Pinnacle Hardware – 14,000m² 36 jobs (complete)
  •  CEVA – 21,000m² (complete)
  • Hutamaki and Phoenix Transport – 12,000m² (complete)
  • GPT – 13,000m (under construction) a further 72,000m² to complete
  • McPhee (Rinnai) 40,000m² (under construction)

Australian Unity sets sights on Meadowbrook, Qld for future health precinct

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Australian Unity has signed an option agreement with Riverina (Australia) Pty Limited to acquire 18 Nestor Drive, Meadowbrook, a prominent site located directly opposite Logan Hospital, for $11.56 million.

The property is the proposed site of a multi-faceted healthcare precinct with development plans including a new private hospital, medical centre, medical office space, aged care facility, and health education service.

Logan Hospital is the major public health facility for one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in greater Brisbane and provides a range of specialty services including acute medical, surgical, rehabilitation, maternity, cardiology, orthopedics, renal and other specialty services for children and adults.

Chris Smith, General Manager of Healthcare Property at Australian Unity said the location of the site is ideal for private sector development due to its proximity to the public hospital, and that Australian Unity will work closely with key stakeholders to maximise the opportunity to service Logan City’s growing population.

“Australian Unity has a proven track record working with the public and private sectors to create healthcare precincts comprising a variety of complementary services, and we are looking forward to working with stakeholders across the precinct to deliver this project,” he said.

“Our focus continues to be on delivering value for investors by committing to longer-term opportunities to invest in healthcare infrastructure in places like Meadowbrook where community demand is growing strongly.”

Mr Smith said, when deployed efficiently, private capital is fundamental in contributing to critical social infrastructure assets that serve the community.

“In South Eastern Queensland, we have established a strong footprint in the development of state-of-the-art healthcare precincts, including the $1.1 billion Herston Quarter Redevelopment in Brisbane, and the recently completed Robina Private Hospital and Medical Centre in Robina,” Mr. Smith said.

“Since the onset of the pandemic we have also acquired a parcel of land in Birtinya, opposite the new Sunshine Coast University Hospital, the focal point of a growing healthcare precinct for the region”, he said.

According to Mr Smith, who manages a portfolio of 55 healthcare-related properties in Australian Unity’s Healthcare Property Trust, the development of healthcare precincts is the way of the future for the delivery of healthcare services for Australian communities.

“Australia’s health system is consistently ranked as one of the best in the world, and complementary health precincts are going to play an increasingly prominent role”, he said.

“Continued collaboration between the public and private health sectors, is critical to the ongoing success of our world-class health system and ensuring every Australian can access the care they need”, Mr Smith said.

Riverina will remain in the property up to 2023.

Logan Office of Economic Development / Logan City Council supports health and medical investment in the City of Logan. The Business case for Health and Medical Investment in the City of Logan commissioned in 2018 identified notable gaps in healthcare provision in the city, particularly noting the lack of a private hospital and ancillary services. Council and LOED have been actively working with stakeholders in the industry to attract necessary investment in healthcare and medical provision to benefit the residents of the City of Logan.

New Logan ‘medtropolis’ on track to become Australia’s largest suburban based medical precinct

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The development of one the country’s largest and most innovative suburban based medical precincts is set to commence.

“The Southwest Medical Precinct will be a significant development for the Logan region, and indeed for Greater Brisbane, and we are proud to announce that not only is the project now underway – we have also secured commitment from UQ Health Care for a 725m2 ground floor tenancy of the complex,” Matthew Cummins, the associate director from property development specialists DMA Partners, said today.

“This is such brilliant news for the complex which is due for completion in late 2021.”

UQ Health Care is a leading primary care, clinical innovation and research organisation owned by The University of Queensland. The new UQ Health Care site will provide an extensive range of health services, from the treatment of acute illness to preventive health services, including health assessments, chronic disease prevention/management, pregnancy and paediatric care, women’s and men’s health, work related injuries/assessments, vaccinations, travel health and much more. It will also provide essential training opportunities for the next generation of doctors, nurses and allied health.

“UQ Health Care will bring over 100,000 people to the centre every year. This combined with all the other retailers and businesses is going to make for a very busy precinct,” Cummins said.

Situated on a prominent corner of Logandowns Drive in the suburb of Meadowbrook, Logan, the new centre will be a multi-level facility comprising over 2,000m2 of mixed retail, medical and office space.

“There is a reason the Southwest Medical complex is already being coined a key component of the broader  ‘medtropolis’ – this centre is going to thrive and become a bustling centre for a broad range of health, wellness and other related products and services,” Benjamin Horwell, of the Horwell Group, said.

“It will also offer sit down and take away food options and a raft of other retailing options. The centre shares over 400 carparks with the neighbouring Meadowbrook Plaza Shopping Centre, providing free parking right up to the door front of many service providers.  The precinct will be a state-of-the-art hub for regional connections and community activity.”

The Southwest Medical Precinct, owned by Horwell Property Investments, is the final commercial development of a 100 hectare site first purchased by the Hoare family in 1986. The development is adjacent to the Woolworths-anchored Meadowbrook Plaza Shopping Centre and Caltex service station, both completed in 2015.

“The Southwest Medical Precinct is going to be one of the busiest community hubs in Logan once it is launched next year,” Cummins added.

“Many businesses and retailers are already expressing interest in the site which is testament to the level of anticipation and excitement surrounding the development. Sites and leases are currently available in the centre and opportunities are available for retail and complementary medical providers and specialists from 68m2 to 1,000m2.

“The centre is ideal for medical and allied health operators, health professionals and specialists, commercial office users and associated retailers. We also have scope for a café operator.”

“We are really pleased with the strong level of leasing interest. The addition of UQ Health Care to the centre supports our leasing strategy and anchors our health and lifestyle focused facility,” Horwell said.

Located 200m from Logan Hospital, and complemented by a strongly performing Woolworths supermarket, the centre will offer its tenants and customers unrivalled exposure and convenience.

Just minutes from the Logan Motorway and M1, and surrounded by multiple major bus and train stops, this bustling medical precinct will be a one-stop-shop for locals of the surrounding region.

“Imagine the functionality and convenience for families and workers who will be able to access important health and wellness services locally and shop for lifestyle and grocery needs in one complex,” Horwell said.

“Not to mention all the jobs the precinct will create. This development really is a good news story at a time when the whole country needs some positive uplifting.”

The Southwest Medical Precinct development has generated significant enthusiasm and support across the area with many people seeing it as a positive sign of life returning to normal post COVID.

“The design by Cottee Parker Architects is modern and fresh, and the abundance of free parking means the centre will be accessible and convenient to all. The medical complex will also act as an overflow for the neighbouring Logan Hospital, which means those across the area will be able to access the medical services they need and deserve,” Horwell said.

“The development builds on Logan City Council’s vision within the Meadowbrook Master Plan, to be a Health and Knowledge Precinct for the city. We commend council for their forward-thinking outlook for Meadowbrook. They have been investing in the future of the city through significant funding and also planning and place making projects including the Loganlea Road Healthy Street project and a public art/creative lighting strategy and projects.

“Southwest Medical Precinct will be the new heartbeat of Logan. We are looking forward to progressing the development and welcoming new businesses and retailers in preparation for our launch late next year.”

Leasing enquiries: DMA Partners – 07 3234 4300.

Project Website

New $70m industrial precinct for Meadowbrook

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Work has commenced on a new $70 million industrial development in Meadowbrook, which will ultimately feature 19 warehouses with immediate access to the Logan Motorway.

The project, to be called M6 Connect, will be built on the final 10 hectares of a 100 hectare industrial land holding which commenced development in 1986.

The final site remains under the ownership of the Brisbane-based Hoare family, operating as Beal Street Industrial Park.

The family has joined forces with property firm Development Directive to realise the potential of what is now the final industrial development opportunity in Meadowbrook, with plans to fill a gap in the market for spec and custom built warehouses.

Development Directive is a full-service property firm offering an end-to-end solution, including identifying developable sites, arranging approvals and project management through to delivery of the finished product.

Development Directive has contracted Pensar Infrastructure to complete civil works across the site, which is expected to be completed by September this year, paving the way for construction of warehouses in the first stage.

The first six warehouses will be spec built, with all other lots open to custom builds to suit tenant requirements.

Development Directive director Lachlan Macgregor says M6 Connect will meet demand from companies in the logistics and distribution space looking for a central location and flexible options for short and long term leaseholds.

“The Development Directive model is to identify gaps in the market and then find the perfect site to deliver the right project, and M6 Connect fits this criteria by creating new industrial leasing opportunities in the sought after Gold Coast to Brisbane corridor,” he said.

“Meadowbrook is a well established industrial area, and M6 Connect will be the last industrial estate to be built here, so it really is the final opportunity for businesses to get a foothold in this precinct.

M6 Connect site in Meadowbrook

M6 Connect site in Meadowbrook

“In recent years, a lot of the focus in industrial development has been on vacant land sales with few spec built projects on offer – especially for those looking to lease rather than purchase.

“It’s particularly rare to have an opportunity to lease a custom built warehouse in a brand new development.

“We are intending to offer the lots individually, however tenants will have the ability to amalgamate lots to suit business requirements.

“We are completing the entire civil works program up front, so all sites will be fully serviced and ready for builders to move on site and build warehouses to meet demand.”

M6 Connect is being marketed by Savills and Cushman & Wakefield.

Savills agent Peter Trikamji says M6 Connect offers a range of lot sizes to suit a variety of uses.

“We have already had enquiries from businesses in the commercial cleaning, freighting and logistics hire industries, which are all circling M6 Connect due to its proximity to the Logan Motorway, with easy access to the interchanges for the M1 and Gateway motorways,” he said.

“Sites range from 1,500sqm to almost 6,000sqm, so they are suitable for small to medium scale businesses.

“The project offers value, with leasing rates expected to range from $125 to $140 per square metre.”

Cushman and Wakefield agent Freddie Donne says the industrial market has shown a trend towards quality spec built product.

“In the past 18 months or so we have seen an uptick in interest in spec built offerings. Developers are finding they are able to lease spec built projects ahead of completion,” he said.

“We expect to see continued interest in M6 Connect from businesses looking to move from areas like Acacia Ridge, Slacks Creek and Underwood, which have older warehouses and don’t have the benefit of upgraded infrastructure.

“The ability to lease these spaces also gives businesses greater agility to respond to market activity.”

ENDS

MEDIA ENQUIRIES, CONTACT SHEREE BREUST, PROMEDIA, ON (07) 55932 011

Major new office development to start construction next month

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Construction will start next month on the first major commercial office development in Beenleigh.

InvestLogan and Alder Developments have received development approval from State Government and local council to proceed with The York, at 96-98 York St.

The approval allows for an underground carpark and a winter garden overhanging the street.

InvestLogan Chairman Steve Greenwood said the approval for the seven-storey building was an exciting step forward for project partners and the people of Beenleigh.

“We are extremely pleased with this outcome and look forward to getting the project under way in what will be a catalyst for the revitalisation of Beenleigh,” he said.

“The built form of the development pays tribute to Beenleigh’s rich history, urban structure and rural setting in both building form, colour and materials.

“The development is designed to provide a modern interpretation of the distinctive character of Beenleigh’s historic buildings with elements like the winter gardens protecting the street like an awning, while enabling passive surveillance of the active spaces and streetscape.”

Artists impression of The York building in Beenleigh

The York will have 156sq m of ground floor retail, 452sq m of study or home office space and 4003sq m of office space as well as two levels of underground carparking with 10 short term car parks for public use.

It is the first new major commercial office building to be constructed in Beenleigh in the last decade, the project is expected to bring 140 new full-time jobs and 100 construction jobs to the area.

General manager of Alder Developments Greg Tupicoff said preliminary works have commenced to prepare the site for construction and he anticipates work will start in April.

John Lane access and York St access will remain open to pedestrians and vehicles throughout the construction period.

To read more about The York, click here.

Investors sought for Logan’s whitewater park vision

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Logan City Council has approved an Expression of Interest (EOI) campaign as the next step towards the city’s proposed Olympic-standard whitewater park.

The campaign will test the market for private sector interest in the project.

In building a business case for the facility, Council examined delivery models of existing whitewater park operations around the world.

That investigation found a public-private partnership or joint venture to be the best way forward.

As a result, the EOI will explore options not only for construction and operations investment but also the management of the facility.

Logan City Council Interim Administrator Tamara O’Shea said an EOI campaign was the logical next step after extensive research and planning into the proposed facility over a number of years.

“There has been an evidence-based approach to this exciting project from the outset, Ms O’Shea said.

“The learnings acquired so far, and the feedback we expect from the EOI, will ensure Council is well-placed to make decisions on a Queensland-first facility that has the potential to deliver significant economic and recreational benefits to the city.”

Potential investors, operators and a range of users from elite athletes, governing bodies and emergency services have already shown interest in the project since Council conducted a Pre-Feasibility Study last year.

Three-time World Cup freestyle kayak champion Jez Blanchard said a world-class whitewater facility in Logan would be a huge asset for city and the wider community.

“Athletes and coaches from all over the world will be drawn to train on the course that will be open year round,” he said.

“Emergency services will also be able to train for swift water rescues.

“There is currently only one specialist white water facility in Australia and that is already 20-years-old.

“To have a top-of-the range, new facility in Queensland is extremely exciting.”

The proposed Logan Whitewater Park aligns with the Logan Destination Management Plan and priorities in Council’s Corporate Plan.

The business case for the facility also aligns with Building Queensland’s comprehensive Business Case Development Framework.

That allows the project to be considered by the State and Federal governments for funding consideration as an infrastructure proposal.

Logan City Council is a partner to South-East Council of Mayors’ feasibility study into a possible bid for the 2032 Olympic Games.

Facilities such as a world-class whitewater park and the recently renovated $3.3 million Doug Larsen Park Olympic-standard BMX freestyle facility would put the City of Logan well-placed to be involved in any future major sporting events.

Construction commences on new $40 million distribution and warehouse facility in Berrinba

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National Logistics Operator McPhee Distribution Services has started work on a $40 million warehouse project at Logan’s premier industrial precinct at Berrinba.

The 40,000 sqm site at Bardon Road, will be developed over three stages with a completion earmarked for June 2023.

Vaughan Constructions has been contracted to build the warehouse, a first for the company in South-East Queensland.

Appliance manufacturer Rinnai Corporation will lease 6000 sqm with McPhee providing overflow storage services.

The development application was lodged under Logan City Council’s RiskSmart initiative and was approved in December last year.

Logan City Council Director Strategy and Sustainability, David Hansen, said McPhee’s arrival signals new infrastructure opportunities for the Berrinba industrial precinct.

“Berrinba has a long and successful history for Logan. It has been the logistics core of Logan for some years now and has attracted an impressive range of local and international companies,” he said.

“The McPhee development will bring on the early delivery of some major infrastructure. Council has plans for a network of industrial roads around the site and McPhee is partnering with Council on the delivery of those roads.”

It is estimated that 400 various construction-related contractor jobs will be required during construction with around 130 jobs required once operational.

McPhee Distribution Services Managing Director Jay McPhee, said his company would provide long-term national distribution services from its Logan base.

“We will be based in Logan for the next 20 to 30 years at least,” he said.

Aaron Trask from Vaughan Constructions, McPhee Distribution Services Chief Executive Mark Llambias and McPhee Distribution Services Managing Director Jay McPhee

The project adds to around $100 million in business investment in the past 12 months into City of Logan – South East Queensland’s newest growth region where almost 170,000 sqm in commercial property will be taken up this year.

International tech companies, a national coffee franchisor and an array of multi-nationals are setting up shop in Logan due to its prime location, spread between Brisbane and Gold Coast, where commercial property opportunities are abundant and affordable.

McPhee’s neighbours at Berrinba include Mitre 10 which last year constructed a $50 million, 27,000 sqm warehouse; Pinnacle Hardware (14,000 sqm with a new $22 million distribution centre); Queensland Logistics Service (15,000 sqm); food packager Huhtamaki (12,000 sqm) and global technology giant Alphabet who has set up shop with its autonomous drone delivery service Wing (15,000 sqm).

Queensland Government announces Indigenous tourism strategy

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The Queensland Government and Tourism & Events Queensland have named 2020 the Year of Indigenous Tourism.

“Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have been proudly practicing and preserving their cultures by sharing it with the next generation for tens of thousands of years,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.

“In modern times, their culture and stories have been an integral part of our tourism industry, attracting people from all around the world to learn more about the world’s oldest cultures.

Tourism Research Australia reports that 351,000 overseas visitors and 116,000 overnight domestic visitors took part in an Indigenous tourism experience in Queensland in the year ending March 2019.

The Queensland Government has launched a new $10 million Growing Indigenous Tourism in Queensland Fund to create economic opportunities and jobs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders.

The fund will support new, unique and innovative Indigenous tourism products and experiences in Queensland, particularly in regional areas. The fund comprises 2 categories, offering up to $25,000 to develop concepts for tourism products or experiences, and $250,000 to $1 million to improve or develop key tourism infrastructure or facilities.

Indigenous Tourism Development Service

Additionally, the Queensland Government is establishing a dedicated Indigenous Tourism Development Service to support Indigenous tourism in the state.

The new service would work with emerging and established Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander operators to start and grow their businesses and products.

“The new Indigenous Tourism Development Service will play a key role, providing on-the-ground support for Indigenous tourism businesses, helping them access government and industry services,” Tourism Minister Kate Jones said.

“This is about growing our tourism industry to create jobs in Queensland.”

SEQ Indigenous Tourism Strategy

The State Government is also working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to develop an Indigenous tourism strategy for South East Queensland.

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said the Palaszczuk Government wanted to give tourists greater access to Indigenous cultural experiences and to provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with more business and employment opportunities.

“A working group of Traditional Owner groups from SEQ will identify gaps and opportunities to develop the tourism industry to deliver broad benefits across the entire region.”

Sprits of the Red Sand in Beenleigh is one of Tourism Australia’s Signature Experiences, featuring in the Discover Aboriginal Experiences brochure. The interactive theatrical performance includes dinner served on the homestead’s broad patio and shuttle transfers to and from Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Mike Tamaki and Eddie Ruska perfected the play’s dialogue through extensive consultation with community elders, ensuring that the story, based on true events, is told in a way that is at once educational and inspiring.

The success of this experience highlights the opportunities that Logan City Council is keen to encourage. The Logan Destination Management Plan 2018-2022 seeks to position the city as a specialist cultural and arts events centre.

 

Need help establishing or growing your indigenous tourism offering in the City of Logan? Contact us on 07 3412 4888 or send us a message.

 

More information:

Manufacturers thrive in Logan

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Business confidence in the City of Logan continues to strengthen as major investment is secured for future industrial estates and manufacturers embark on multimillion dollar expansion plans and explore opportunities in new international markets.

Manufacturing has long been a significant contributor to Logan’s economy – valued at around $2.88 billion and creating 8,700 jobs, the sector is the top third highest revenue generator and is the city’s fifth largest employer.

While the industry has seen an overall decline nationally, many Logan businesses in both traditional and emerging manufacturing sectors have continued to grow and thrive.

Local vitamin supplement manufacturer ATP Science will soon consolidate their premises into a $15 million purpose-built 6000 sqm headquarters in Meadowbrook – a move that will allow the company to develop new lines, double their workforce and fast-track global expansion plans.

Managing Director Jeff Doidge said the time was now to invest in a new Logan headquarters as the business was experiencing massive growth and exploring opportunities offshore.

“About 80 per cent is sold in Australia and we are currently exporting to the UAE, US and UK and have some emerging markets in India and China,” he said.

“Being in Logan gives us access to the ports, the airport and the sea docks – as far as major infrastructure is concerned it’s fantastic.”

Accessibility is one of the city’s main draw cards for manufacturers – Logan is just a 30 minute drive to the Port of Brisbane, in close proximity to 3 international airports and conveniently located between Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Infrastructure investment in Logan is at historic levels – with the completion of the $500 million Logan Enhancement Project and more than $18 billion in the pipeline, investors are taking interest in the city’s industrial areas.

International property investors MapleTree Logistics Trust recently secured 36 hectares of land in Park Ridge for $95 million, which forms part of a future 157 hectare industrial estate.

The city is already home to several industry leaders including award-winning product commercialisation facility Evolve Group; and specialists in rocket and propulsion systems Black Sky Aerospace, who were the first to secure access to NASA’s Australian launch site.

Leading manufacturer in tanker solutions Holmwood Highgate has operated in Logan since 1994 and continues to expand their workforce to keep up with business growth.

Director Wade Mellish says that the city’s location and access to a skilled workforce has supported Holmwood Highgate explore opportunities in the global defence industry.

In 2018, Holmwood Highgate was awarded a contract as part of Rheinmetall’s Australian supply chain, a crucial step in furthering their expansion into new markets.

“The City of Logan allows us to deliver world-class products both domestically and internationally,” he said.

“We’ve got upwards of 200 staff now – blue and white collar – and increasing the workers every day because of the amount of work that we have on.”

Within a 40km radius, the city has access to a regional catchment of more than 2.6 million people and a large pool of talent for employers to choose from.

Furthermore, the presence of major transport and logistics companies and proximity to a diverse network of suppliers makes Logan an attractive location for businesses of all sizes.

The ease of doing business in Logan has driven an emergence of niche manufacturers in the food and beverage categories.

Food and beverage processing has continued to grow and is the city’s most productive sub-sector.

Small businesses including craft brewers, honey product manufacturers, coffee roasters and chocolate makers operate successfully from Logan.

Logan City Council has recently made it easier for craft brewers to establish themselves in Logan by implementing significant changes to the planning scheme.

The City of Logan is fast-becoming a destination of choice for manufacturers in the region and offers eligible businesses incentives to move into the city.

Find out more about the opportunities for manufacturers in Logan by visiting https://www.loed.com.au/investinlogan/.