Australia Zoo and Brisbane River tourist boats among recipients of Queensland Government funding

Among the five projects sharing in $15 million under Round 1 of Queensland Government’s Growing Future Tourism program are Australia Zoo and Brisbane River tourist boats.

Collectively, the five projects are anticipated to attract more than 216,000 extra visitors per year, spending an additional $63 million.

Queensland Government funding will contribute towards the overall cost of the five projects, together with private funding.

The five projects are due to reach practical completion by 30th June 2026.

Australia Zoo will get four new two-storey, two-bedroom eco-cabins overlooking a freshwater billabong inhabited by wildlife including freshwater crocodiles.

The family friendly eco-cabins will be fitted with premium fixtures including a plunge pool, heated floors and stone bathtubs.

There are currently 16 cabins, with the Crocodile Hunter Lodge Stage 4 development works to start in February this year.

Australia Zoo Wildlife Conservationist Terri Irwin shared “We would like to thank the Queensland Government for their support in helping us expand The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, Australia Zoo’s stunning luxury accommodation.

“We’re thrilled to begin construction on the next set of cabins, creating an exceptional experience for guests in their cherished home away from home.

“The Crocodile Hunter Lodge offers a unique experience as guests are surrounded by beautiful wildlife and the natural environment, receiving plenty of inclusions in their stay such as unlimited entry to Australia Zoo, complimentary breakfast at our fine-dining venue, Warrior Restaurant & Bar, exclusive access to the Lodge’s infinity pool and more.

“It’s a harmonious blend of luxury and nature, made possible by the support of the Queensland Government.”

Another of the five projects is the construction of a 42-berth marina where commercial and tourist boats can dock overnight on the Brisbane River at Raptis Seafoods, Morningside near the Gateway Bridge.

While the facility will not provide a tourist pick up and drop off point, the marina will give Brisbane’s marine tourism operators a place to anchor after a tough few years that included the 2022 floods and displacement due to waterfront developments across the city.

The new marina is due for completion by April 2025, subject to development approvals.

Raptis Investments spokesperson Chief Executive Tim Beirne enthused “Raptis Investments is thrilled to be awarded funding for the development of a new commercial marina to support growth in visitor tourism activities along the Brisbane River and on Moreton Bay, under round 1 of the Queensland Government’s Growing Future Tourism Fund.

“Raptis Investments is committed to the ongoing development of the tourism sector. Repurposing the Raptis Seafoods wharves not only provides certainty of tenure in home porting, but it will also encourage investment and foster new employment opportunities by both existing and new market tourism operators, to meet the rising tourist demand for coastal and aquatic experiences."

Queensland Government funding for the five projects will leverage $66.6 million in private investment, supporting an estimated 313 jobs during planning and construction and 669 ongoing operational jobs.

Other projects include:

• A fixed 50-metre jetty at Lindeman Island Resort.

• A marine tourism hub at Flinders Street Wharves, Townsville, featuring marina berths and a floating bar/restaurant.

Image top: Australia Zoo eco cabins; Image below: Brisbane River