Wangetti Trail Updates

Engineering design and ground-truthing work for the Wangetti Trail have now been completed, as work ramps up on the business case for the world-class ecotrail.

“This is a major milestone for a project that will allow tourists from around the globe better access to this world-class 76 kilometre walking and mountain biking trail,” said Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones.

“Tropical North Queensland is famous for its natural beauty. That’s why it makes sense to invest in the Wangetti Trail.

“Our economic modelling shows the Wangetti Trail will generate $300 million for Queensland over the next 30 years and will create 150 jobs once it’s operational.

“That’s what the Palaszczuk Government’s ecotourism agenda is all about – partnering with the private sector to show the world the best parts of Queensland and create sustainable tourism jobs in our state.”

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the government had been forwarded a letter of support from the Traditional Owners who are working with the State to develop the Wangetti Trail.

“We’re partnering with the traditional owners, the private sector and local councils to make this project a reality,” he said.

“The ground-truthing (on-site examination) for the Wangetti Trail is now complete and the images obtained are stunning.

“The world will want to visit just to view and experience the locations for themselves.

“Engineering design for the trail is complete and it will further inform development of the business case.”

Ms Jones said today’s milestones on the Wangetti Trail come after the government called for expressions of interest to deliver new ecotourism experiences throughout the state.

“We have put out the call for interested parties to deliver the Thorsborne Trail (Townsville), Cooloola Great Walk (Sunshine Coast) and the Whitsunday Island Trail,” she said.

“The expressions of interest are the first stage to make sure we develop sustainable tourism experiences that showcase the very best of Queensland.

“The latest tourism data shows that visitors are looking for unique experiences – today’s announcement is about positioning Queensland to capitalise on this growing demand.

“We know eco and adventure tourists stay longer and spend more money when they visit. We’re working hard to develop this sector to create more tourism jobs in Queensland.

“Our expectation from those interested in submitting an EOI is simple – we want you to foster a conservation culture with these world-class opportunities, and at the same time create local jobs.

Submit Expressions of Interest

EOI’s are open until 16 November 2018.

Source
Media Statements
Minister for Innovation and Tourism Industry Development
The Honourable Kate Jones