The Atherton Tablelands will strengthen its position in tropical science training and research with a single, purpose built facility planned for the region, Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries Tim Mulherin said today.

Mr Mulherin has announced an independent review into a single facility on the Tablelands, which would replace the research stations at Kairi, Walkamin and Southedge, as well as the Australian Agricultural College Corporation's Mareeba campus.

"The review is part of the Department for Primary Industries and Fisheries' 'fresh approach' to build skills for the future, deliver innovative research partnerships to grow investment and network and modernise services," he said.

"The independent review will address a wide range of issues and report by the end of September 2008.

"The review will provide recommendations on the location of a single facility, which could be located at a new site or one of the existing DPI&F sites on the Tablelands."

Mr Mulhering said the consultants would contact staff, industry and other stakeholders to determine the way forward, considering issues such as skills and training needs and future opportunities for research and development.

"Interested parties are invited to have their say to ensure all views are considered as part of the review," he said.

Mr Mulherin said a single facility had the potential to accelerate growth on the Atherton Tablelands.

"A single, purpose built facility will capitalise on the uniqueness of the region and its potential for economic growth," he said.

"Developing new skills and capabilities will enable us to exploit the commercial opportunities in North Australia and the Asia Pacific region in tropical agriculture, extension and training.

"It also makes good sense to consolidate investment in the region. In order to give the Tablelands the state-of-the-art facility that it truly needs to move forward, we should shift out of the ageing facilities that are costing us far too much to operate.

"The vision for the Tablelands ensures our efforts are relevant to the changing face of Queensland's primary industries."

Written submissions will be accepted until Monday, September 8, 2008.

* Further information to support written submissions is available on www.dpi.qld.gov.au under 'Fresh Approach' or by calling the Business Information centre on 13 25 23.