Visitors on the "Savanah Way" west of Cairns can soak up traditional culture and enjoy the enchanting landscapes of Ewamian country with the official opening of Talaroo Hot Springs, as part of the Palaszczuk Government's Covid-19 Economic Recovery Plan.
Assistant Tourism Minister Michael Healy said Talaroo Hot Springs, beside the Einasleigh River, was opened today by the Ewamian Aboriginal Corporation.
"This is what rebuilding better for the future looks like," Mr Healy said.
"More than $2.3 million has been invested by the Palaszczuk Government's Growing Tourism Infrastructure Fund, supporting 15 construction jobs and another seven operational job opportunities.
"This is a tremendous site that includes a new viewing deck and boardwalk around the hot springs plus accommodation infrastructure.
"We know more Australians are looking for unique, cultural visitor opportunities and Talaroo Hot Springs should be at the top of travel bucket lists.
"Visitors can pull-up with a caravan or swag for the night, learn about local Ewamian culture on a guided tour and soak up one of North Queensland's most unique geological wonders.
"I want to congratulate the Ewamian People for their inspirational work on Talaroo Hot Springs."
Talaroo Hot Springs at Mount Surprise is around four hours west of Cairns by road on the Savannah Way.
Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the Palaszczuk Government's Growing Tourism Infrastructure Fund and the Ewamian Aboriginal Corporation had developed a special visitor experience.
"Creating new and unique tourism experiences bring new visitors to the Far North and that's important for the Palaszczuk Government's Covid-19 Economic Recovery Plan for the region," Mr Hinchliffe said.
"The global pandemic has helped to provide an opportunity for the Ewamian Aboriginal Corporation to rebuild Talaroo Hot Springs better for the future.
"I'm confident Talaroo Hot Springs will attract the growing number of Australian travellers seeking out genuine cultural experiences.
"It also delivers a unique experience for overseas visitors looking to value-add to their Australian travel itineraries, once the Federal Government can safety open our international border to tourism.
"Being four hours west of Cairns makes Talaroo Hot Springs - the incredible landscape and rich stories of Ewamian country - an accessible location for Australian and international visitors alike."
Ken Georgetown, Chairperson of the Ewamian Aboriginal Corporation said the Palaszczuk Government's support for this project has been and will be life-changing for many Ewamian people in creating future economic opportunities on our country.
"We have walked together to build a partnership that not only maintains cultural and conservation values at Talaroo but also creates a sustainable business that celebrates Ewamian culture, knowledge and stories."
Sharon Prior, General Manager of Ewamian Aboriginal Corporation said they are forever grateful to the Queensland Government for assisting Ewamian People to achieve their vision of re-opening the Hot Springs to tourism.
"I am very proud of the hard work, dedication and achievements of all who have been involved and engaged on this project."
Dropbox to Talaroo Hot Springs pics:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/o6zymhpangd1zut/AAC7GLZ2PrdI_ohoEEeitMMQa?dl=0
***There are two photographs of the Board of Ewamian Aboriginal Corporation, plus Sharon Prior, GM.
Left to right they include Jimmy Richards, Jenny Lacey, Sharon Prior (GM), Brian Bing, Timeah Archer & Ken Georgetown (Chair)***
