A Fresh Start for Queensland: LNP delivers major step forward for Double Island revitalisation
- The Crisafulli Government to convert Double Island to state-owned freehold to activate tourism opportunities
- Change allows government to negotiate commercial leases and hold leaseholders accountable to Queenslanders
- Expressions of interest will open soon seeking forward-looking tourism visions for Double Island
After years of neglect under Labor, the Crisafulli Government is delivering a major step forward for one of Far North Queensland's major tourism assets.
The site of the former resort on Double Island has been converted from a Land Act Reserve to state-owned freehold land, paving the way for a bright new future.
The change will allow the state government to negotiate fit-for-purpose commercial leases that will help restore Double Island as a premier tourist attraction, after the former Labor Government sat on their hands and let the island's potential go to waste.
The government will soon take expressions of interest from operators interested in taking Double Island to the next step.
Minister Last said the Crisafulli Government had listened to the community and was delivering a future for Double Island.
"We know the community has immense pride in this local gem and they've advocated strongly for the restoration of Double Island for both locals and visitors," Minister Last said.
"We promised a Fresh Start for Double Island and this is the first step in delivering it.
"Expressions of interest looking for an operator with a forward-looking tourism vision for Double Island will soon be open, to ensure the gem in the Far North's tourism crown is finally reopened to Queenslanders and the world.
"Converting the island to state-owned freehold land gives us stronger powers to negotiate commercial leases and ensure leaseholders provide world-class tourism offerings and are accountable to the people of Queensland.
"Securing the future of Double Island is an important part of our tourism strategy, and this local paradise needs the right operator to be successful and sustainable into the future.
"This step forward follows consultation with the local community and other stakeholders about the future of Double Island, as well as market sounding with industry."
Minister Last said action on Double Island was long overdue after Labor's neglect.
"After years of management failures, Labor didn't even have a plan for Double Island's future," Minister Last said.
"Islands that were once the jewels in our tourism crown were neglected by the previous Government – but not on my watch.
"Iconic destinations like Double Island should be vibrant tourism hot spots that support hundreds of jobs, and the Crisafulli Government is now delivering that full potential."
Member for Barron River and Assistant Minister for Tourism Bree James said she was excited about what the future held for Double Island.
"This is a new era for an island treasure that far-north Queenslanders know and love," Ms James said.
"Our community has loudly advocated for the restoration of Double Island to its former glory, and this is an important step toward achieving that.
"This is what we've all been waiting for and I'm excited for both locals and visitors to be able to explore Double Island."
