- The Palaszczuk Government is supporting First Nations organisations and tourism businesses to establish new culturally-focused ecotourism programs that showcase Gondwana's protected areas.
- Eligible projects include guided tours, development of public art, and cultural awareness training.
- The funding will support ideas driven by First Nations people delivered on terms suitable to them.
- Funded programs will enhance visitor understanding of First Nations peoples' connection to Gondwana while supporting local tourism.
The Palaszczuk Government is offering First Nations organisations and tourism operators a share in $275,000 to establish new culturally-focused ecotourism programs within the Queensland section of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia.
Queensland's Gondwana section stretches across Mount Barney and Lamington, Springbrook and Main Range national parks along the state's southern border and is internationally recognised by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for the significant number of rare and threatened rainforest species that call this area home.
Because of Gondwana's rich biodiversity and unique geographical structures, including the popular Natural Bridge, townships in the Gold Coast hinterland and Scenic Rim rely on business generated by visitors to Gondwana's protected areas.
First Nations organisations and tourism businesses can now apply for a share in funding to establish new tourism products and visitor opportunities that promote the cultural and environmental values of Gondwana by drawing on First Nations peoples' knowledge about country.
The aim of this funding is to enhance tourism and further recognise the deep connection between Indigenous Australians and Gondwana.
Eligible ventures include guided tours, Indigenous food-based cooking classes and events or presentations.
Funding is also available for First Nations-led replanting programs, the development of culturally oriented educational signs and art to be included in regional tourism campaigns and the creation of on-park artwork.
Organisations can also use the funding to develop cultural awareness training to educate visitors and local communities about the Traditional Owners' connection to country.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Leanne Linard:
"Gondwana's environmental significance and desirability as a tourism hotspot is intertwined with its cultural significance for First Nations peoples.
"This funding will create opportunities for Indigenous organisations and tourism businesses to share this connection with park visitors and educate communities about the stories and knowledge of Gondwana.
"I encourage all eligible organisations to apply for this funding to help us diversity and strengthen our tourism portfolio and support First Nations-led involvement in our tourism industry."
