A Group will work to identify ways to maximise economic opportunities in the iconic Great Barrier Reef – including rejuvenating some rundown resorts, according to Minister for the Great Barrier Reef, Dr Steven Miles.
Dr Miles said the move would help ensure the tourism industry and regional economies fully benefited from some of the best real estate in the world.
“This Government is committed to ensuring that we develop a strong and sustainable eco-tourism industry in the Great Barrier Reef,” Dr Miles said.
“The Great Barrier Reef resorts are an iconic part of Queensland’s tourism industry, however a number are unfortunately run down and not operating.
“The Queensland Government is working to turn this around, and is working with the tourism industry to rejuvenate our reef island resorts.
“I strongly support tourism opportunities and experiences on the Great Barrier Reef. Securing the reef’s iconic reputation and flow-on benefits to the tourism sector are key considerations moving forward.
Of the 24 resorts on leasehold land in the Great Barrier Reef, 13 are open.
Of the remaining 11, nine have redevelopment plans in place and the other two are subject to private party negotiations to resolve their future.
Tourism Minister Kate Jones said it was important the reef island resorts were rejuvenated to “offer world-class experiences to visitors”.
“Anyone who has visited the Whitsunday islands knows just how breathtaking they are,” Ms Jones said.
“Our Reef islands are already experiencing a new wave of investor interest including the redevelopment of Hayman Island, planned expansion of Hamilton Island Resort, refurbishment of Daydream and new up-scale eco-resorts planned for Lindeman and Brampton Islands.
“In the last 12 months, the Whitsundays welcomed more than 655,000 visitors.
“Tourism is worth more than $800 million to the region and supports more than 7,000 local jobs.”
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