The City has shortlisted its preferred options for a range of City-led projects to kickstart Gold Coast's Nature Based Tourism Program, including the acquisition of a major property in Springbrook.
The City has secured the Eaglemont Estate adjacent to Springbrook National Park, consisting of five land parcels covering 63.17 hectares and just a short walk to Purling Brook Falls.
Springbrook National Park is a World Heritage site featuring waterfalls, lush rainforests, ancient trees, breathtaking views and significant ecological value.
Mayor Tom Tate said the acquisition of Eaglemont Estate presented a fantastic opportunity to drive nature-based tourism and improved community infrastructure.
"Investing in this idyllic Springbrook property will enhance community and tourism infrastructure while encouraging visitors to stay longer and improving amenities for locals."
Beyond Springbrook, low impact eco-accommodation paired with immersive nature-based experiences, upgraded walking experiences in the hinterland, as well as enhancements to Tipplers on South Stradbroke Island and eco-experiences in The Broadwater are also being investigated.
"All of our nature-based tourism projects will combine environmental preservation with enhancing visitor experiences while providing economic growth for the city," Mayor Tate said.
"The shortlisted projects range from large scale to small scale projects which demonstrate sustainable nature-based tourism products and direct benefits to the local community and infrastructure."
"The Gold Coast sits amongst some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Australia surrounded by the hinterland and the waterways, and is home to hundreds of species of wildlife and marine life.
"A renewed focus on nature-based tourism will create new ways for locals and visitors to explore our natural city."
The other recommended City-led projects include:
- Numinbah Valley – improvements to the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk and Woonoongoora Eco-Camp
- Austinville – eco-accommodation and trail establishment
- South Stradbroke Island – nature-based tourism enhancements to Tipplers precinct hub
- The Broadwater – eco-cabins and marine tourism experience development.
Queensland's Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Science and Innovation Andrew Powell welcomed the announcement.
"We know people come to Queensland for the spectacular landscape – whether it's world class surfing beaches or pristine rainforest and mountain ranges.
"The Gold Coast's proposal to offer a brand-new nature-based tourism product next to the glorious Springbrook National Park will give people yet another reason to visit the Gold Coast.
"Connecting with nature is increasingly important to both international and local visitors, and they are looking for new ways and places to do this.
"Seeing the waterfalls, rainforest and breathtaking views from the Springbrook National Park will ensure we have a new generation of champions keen to protect our environment.
"The improvements to the Tipplers precinct will also be welcomed by boating visitors, and the proposal for eco cabins in Broadwater help extend the range of experiences on offer," said minister Powell.
Now the City is the owner of Eaglemont Estate, a master planning exercise will be conducted with input sought from the community to determine the range of uses, and appropriate planning pathways.
The other City-led projects require further planning and early market engagement before any community consultation will commence.
Other elements of the nature-based tourism program will include a request for proposals from private businesses and a grants program supporting new and existing local businesses that create nature-based experiences starting early 2025.
