Four Queensland ecotourism projects to share in $15 million state government funding

Four ecotourism projects across Queensland will share in the $15 million second round of Growing Future Tourism funding with projects including a new resort on Hook Island, a luxury Granite Belt vineyard experience, Gold Coast farm stay and sustainable reef tours.

Due for completion in March 2027, the projects are expected to attract 95,000 extra visitors each year who’ll spend an additional $60.7 million.

Two-time Tripadvisor winner of Australia’s best experience, Port Douglas’s ABC Snorkel Charters, has received Growing Future Tourism funding to double its fleet with a new custom-built catamaran to offer more exclusive, small group reef tours.

ABC Snorkel Charters will also use the grant to purchase a new Airberth Boat Lift system to assist with berthing and maintenance.

Jay Wink, Owner ABC Snorkel Charters shared “we’d like to thank the Queensland Government for supporting us in the purchase of our new catamaran and boat lift system.

“This funding will allow us to expand our tours, which focus on sustainability, marine conservation and cultural education.

“This partnership will allow us to share the beauty and wonder of the Great Barrier Reef with more visitors who are also interested in ensuring their visit adds to reef protection and environmental awareness.”

The $30 million fund supports the development of new and enhanced tourism infrastructure and experiences across Queensland by providing $1 million to $4 million in matched funding.

The four projects will leverage almost $46 million in private investment, supporting an estimated 187 jobs during planning and construction and 171 ongoing operational jobs.

The other projects include:

• A major eco resort development on cyclone-damaged Hook Island in the Whitsundays, with 39 cabins, a pool, spa and restaurant, built using cyclone resilient techniques and materials.

• 31 new eco-tents at Village Roadshow Theme Parks’ popular Paradise Country farm stay on the Gold Coast, allowing tourists to have close encounters with wildlife on the doorstep of the Gold Coast Hinterland.

• A luxury food, wine and accommodation experience to draw visitors year-round at Ballandean’s St Judes Vineyard on the Southern Downs Granite Belt, with 16 eco-tents, a reception pavilion, restaurant and wellness centre.

Growing Future Tourism is a key initiative of Towards Tourism 2032. Developed and delivered in partnership with industry, the shared vision of Towards Tourism 2032 is for Queensland to be Australia’s destination of choice for visitors seeking the world’s best experiences within the decade.

Further information:

The $30 million Growing Future Tourism program is designed to deliver new and enhanced tourism infrastructure or experiences in the priority areas of coastal and marine tourism; heritage and cultural tourism; and ecotourism and sustainability.

For information about projects funded in round one, visit www.dts.qld.gov.au/tourism/funds/growing-future-tourism-program

Images from top. Two-time Tripadvisor winner of Australia’s best experience, Port Douglas’s ABC Snorkel Charters; Hook Island; Paradise Country; and St Judes Vineyard