Work to start on $4.5 million Daintree upgrade
- $4.5 million Jindalba Boardwalk upgrade in the Daintree National Park.
- The eco-tourism revitalisation project will improve the Daintree visitor experience and provide greater access for people of all abilities.
- Suitable materials from the existing boardwalk will be recycled for use by the local First Nations community to strengthen sustainability.
The Crisafulli Government is charging ahead with a $4.5 million Jindalba Boardwalk reconstruction project in the iconic Daintree National Park.
Work starts today on a new 650-metre long boardwalk that will have all-abilities access and three water crossings, creating a better visitor experience while preserving the natural beauty of the World Heritage-listed rainforest.
The new boardwalk has been designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment and champion the Daintree's reputation as a powerful eco-tourism drawcard.
The Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation has played a crucial role in overseeing the project, and Eastern Kuku Yalanji community members will be employed to work on the upgrade.
Reconstruction enhancements include:
- Eco-friendly materials: the entire elevated boardwalk will be replaced with durable Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic and feature responsibly sourced timber handrails.
- Access & signage: an existing space for cars will be upgraded to meet Persons with Disabilities requirements, alongside the installation of new interpretive signage. Upgraded sections of the track will also provide more inclusive all-abilities access to the park's wonders.
- Trail & shelter improvements: adjustments to the track will enhance safety and visitor flow, along with a new shelter that will provide safety information.
The completed project will be a welcome relief for Queenslanders, who endured a decade of Labor neglect on ecotourism.
A report by the Queensland Audit Office found that in the space of 10 years, just three national park ecotourism facilities were approved, with only two more in development.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the upgrade is needed to meet the needs of the 52,000 people visiting the Jindalba Day Use Area each year.
"This $4.5 million boardwalk upgrade is a testament to the Crisafulli Government's commitment to ensuring people of all abilities can enjoy our wonderful nature-based tourism attractions," Minister Powell said.
"We're investing in this stunning boardwalk to support local tourism jobs, and give local, national and international tourists a compelling reason to visit the Daintree.
"The renovation will also ensure the boardwalk's longevity and resilience against severe weather events."
Member for Cook David Kempton said future-proofing the boardwalk would also reduce the need for major maintenance.
"Key features of the renovation include 70 metres of concrete, a viewing platform, and six new interpretive signs to guide visitors along the way.
"Daintree National Park is not only a national icon, it's a significant place for Eastern Kuku Yalanji community members, locals and visitors alike."
