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Mackay Airport has completed first-stage works on its new Milton Precinct mixed-use development, with the first tenancies expected to open in 2026.
Civil works and new roads are now finished for the precinct, which the airport estimates will provide $134.1 million to the local economy in the first 10 years, and $42.5 million in output from new businesses per year.
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“A range of businesses are expected to operate from Milton Precinct when construction is complete, including retail, food and beverage offerings, short-term worker accommodation, health care and other service providers and light industrial,” the airport said in a press release.
The project recently received $32 million in funding as part of a larger $58 million investment in wide-scale renovations and upgrades, supported in part by a loan from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF).
“Milton Precinct is strategically located near existing and emerging growth areas and we expect it will be a catalyst for new industry and employment,” airport chief executive Richard Barker said.
Six of the new streets will have names with “special local meanings”, selected through consultation with community representatives and traditional owners: Barry Dean Street, Bandala Street, Bert Sadleir Street, Guwari Street, Avro Avenue, and Ron Adair Street.
According to Barker, the airport wanted the street naming process to “be inclusive and meaningful for the Mackay community”.
“Three of the new streets honour key Mackay figures who have been instrumental contributors to our local aviation industry.”
“Two of the names have been selected by the Yuwi people, representing their connection to this land and the airport. Another name recognises the first aircraft to ever touch down in Mackay.”
One of the honourees, Dr Bert Sadleir – the first CQ Rescue doctor – said he was shocked but proud to have a street named after him.
“CQ Rescue has become quite an iconic organisation in the district, and is a major contributor to aviation in Mackay.”
“There were many other contributors to the service over the years; it was quite a journey with a lot of hard work, and a lot of people involved. I see my name up there as a representation of all those people who contributed, and the community’s efforts to keep it going.”
The recent funding follows an initial investment of $155 million worth of upgrades to Cairns and Mackay from NAIF in June last year to contribute to community development in the regional cities.
