- Four ecotourism projects across the state will share in the $15 million second round of Growing Future Tourism funding.
- Projects range from a new resort on Hook Island, a luxury Granite Belt vineyard experience, Gold Coast farm stay and sustainable reef tours.
- Due for completion in March 2027, the projects are expected to attract 95,000 extra visitors each year who'll spend an additional $60.7 million.
Two-time Tripadvisor winner of Australia's best experience, Port Douglas's ABC Snorkel Charters, has received Growing Future Tourism funding to double its fleet with a new custom-built catamaran to offer more exclusive, small group reef tours.
The project is one of four ecotourism developments across Queensland successful in the $15 million second round of Growing Future Tourism funding.
The $30 million fund supports the development of new and enhanced tourism infrastructure and experiences across Queensland by providing $1 million to $4 million in matched funding.
The four projects will leverage almost $46 million in private investment, supporting an estimated 187 jobs during planning and construction and 171 ongoing operational jobs.
The other projects include:
- A major eco resort development on cyclone-damaged Hook Island in the Whitsundays, with 39 cabins, a pool, spa and restaurant, built using cyclone resilient techniques and materials.
- 31 new eco-tents at Village Roadshow Theme Parks' popular Paradise Country farm stay on the Gold Coast, allowing tourists to have close encounters with wildlife on the doorstep of the Gold Coast Hinterland.
- A luxury food, wine and accommodation experience to draw visitors year-round at Ballandean's St Judes Vineyard on the Southern Downs Granite Belt, with 16 eco-tents, a reception pavilion, restaurant and wellness centre.
ABC Snorkel Charters will also use the grant to purchase a new Airberth Boat Lift system to assist with berthing and maintenance.
Growing Future Tourism is a key initiative of Towards Tourism 2032. Developed and delivered in partnership with industry, the shared vision of Towards Tourism 2032 is for Queensland to be Australia's destination of choice for visitors seeking the world's best experiences within the decade.
As stated by Minister for Tourism and Sport Michael Healy:
"Growing Future Tourism is focussed on supporting the development of new and enhanced infrastructure and experiences that will make Queensland Australia's destination of choice for world class experiences by 2032," Mr Healy said.
"The four projects to be successful this round will deliver outstanding experiences that vary from exclusive, high-end reef tours in Port Douglas to family friendly farm stays on the Gold Coast.
"Importantly as we work toward our ambitious target of doubling overnight visitor expenditure to more than $44 billion per year within the decade, these projects are estimated to attract 95,000 extra visitors to Queensland each year, spending an additional $60.7 million.
As stated by Member for Cook Cynthia Lui:
"Ecotourism projects were the winners this round.
"ABC Snorkel Charters' commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental protection on the Great Barrier Reef has earned it rave reviews from its guests.
"Port Douglas is a world-famous tourist destination and a gateway to the World Heritage-listed Reef and Rainforest, it's great to see this support for our local operators."
As stated by Jay Wink, Owner ABC Snorkel Charters
"We'd like to thank the Queensland Government for supporting us in the purchase of our new catamaran and boat lift system.
"This funding will allow us to expand our tours, which focus on sustainability, marine conservation and cultural education.
"This partnership will allow us to share the beauty and wonder of the Great Barrier Reef with more visitors who are also interested in ensuring their visit adds to reef protection and environmental awareness."
