“The Labor Government will not lift a finger to preserve the proud heritage of the Cairns Yacht Club,” LNP Senator Barnaby Joyce said today.

“Instead the Labor Party has chosen to thumb its nose at community pleas to prevent demolition of the historic 99 year old building.”

The building is scheduled to be knocked down in the coming weeks and replaced by a high rise development.

Senator Joyce last week sought to clarify the government's position on the imminent demolition with a question to the Minister representing the Minister for the Environment, Heritage, the Arts and Indigenous Affairs.

However the Minister has refused to grant a Federal Government amnesty to delay demolition and allow for the presentation of further evidence which supports the argument for National Heritage listing.

The Cairns Yacht Club building has been nominated for National Heritage listing twice and on both occasions the nomination has been rejected. Despite the presentation of over 10,000 signatures from the Far North community and other interested parties, the Government refuses to utilise its full powers in extending protection.

In his response during question time, Minister Faulkner confirmed that the community was left with no option other than to approach State Heritage listing.

“This recommendation belies the Government's claim to be in touch with the issue as a certificate of immunity as obtained by the Cairns Port Authority does not expire until August 2009, restricting the pursuit of such an alternative,” Senator Joyce said.

“It is time that the government stopped passing the buck and startí responding to the demands of the community. Under the National Heritage List criteria, this building warrants protection for its aesthetic characteristics and its cultural, military and social significance.”

“This beautiful piece of architecture is part of the history of Queensland and, as such, a significant part of the history of this Nation,” Senator Joyce said.

Ends.