Townsville North Queensland’s tourism sector received a significant boost today, with the LNP party announcing a $4.9 million funding commitment towards the Palm Island Tourism Masterplan Walking Trails.
This investment, which has been championed by Townsville Enterprise and the Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council, features as a key project within Townsville Enterprise’s Unlock the North State Election priorities. The announcement today make by Adam Ballie will support the creation of walking trails at key locations across Palm Island, if the LNP form Government.
From our CEO, Claudia Brumme-Smith:
The Palm Island Tourism Masterplan represents a transformative opportunity for Townsville North Queensland. By leveraging Palm Island’s deep cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, we aim to foster sustainable First Nations tourism and eco-tourism. This initiative will help grow a vibrant visitor economy, support local businesses, create employment opportunities, and uplift the broader community through socioeconomic development.
Townsville Enterprise warmly welcomes today’s $4.9 million election commitment from the LNP, which will fund the development of five nationally renowned walking trails across the island. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tourism is a cornerstone of Queensland’s tourism offering, and to truly attract both new and returning visitors, we must invest in authentic cultural experiences like the Palm Island Walking Trails.
This funding is a positive step toward establishing Palm Island as a world-class eco-tourism destination within the Great Barrier Reef, showcasing its First Nations heritage. We look forward to continued collaboration with all sides of politics in the lead up to the State Election to secure further commitments towards the full development of the Palm Island Tourism Masterplan, including glamping facilities and marine tourism experiences.
Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council warmly welcomes the LNP’s announcement today, committing $4.9M towards our Tourism Master Plan.
Mayor Alf Lacey said: "Palm Island is a tropical paradise in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and is home to the Manbarra Traditional Owners and Bwgcolman Historical Owners. We believe Palm Island has immense potential to tap into North Queensland’s thriving tourism industry, and our Palm Island Tourism Masterplan is the key to unlocking economic, social and cultural opportunities for our community."
"For international tourists seeking a rich, deep Indigenous engagement experience, Palm Island presents a unique opportunity. Visitors can immerse themselves in the culture while enjoying the breathtaking beauty of our Great Barrier Reef Island."
"What sets Palm Island apart is the combination of stunning coastal and mountain walking trails, paired with our local ranger program that offers a cultural immersion unlike anywhere else. This experience will provide something truly exceptional for those who visit. We want to spread the message that Palm Island is open for tourism, and it’s our community that is eager to showcase the beauty and culture of our island."
Council CEO, Michael Bissell said: "We thank the LNP for their election commitment of $4.9 million towards the Walking Trails identified in our Tourism Masterplan, and we look forward to further discussions on delivering the full scope of the Masterplan’s projects, including our glamping sites and marine infrastructure."
