Billionaire Annie Cannon-Brookes wraps up the first phase of the revitalisation of Dunk Island
Billionaire Annie Cannon-Brookes has unveiled the first phase of a multimillion dollar revival of an iconic Queensland island that’s been in the doldrums for 14 years.
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Billionaire Annie Cannon-Brookes has wrapped up the first phase of the revitalisation of Dunk Island in far north Queensland with the opening of a new beachfront restaurant.
Software giant Atlassian co-founder Mike Cannon-Brookes and wife Annie are in the process of splitting their fortune after separating a couple of years ago.
The mother of four bought the freehold island in 2022 for $24m and since her separation has embarked on a series of philanthropic causes backed by her estimated $12bn fortune.
The new restaurant is on Dunk Island Spit, which the Cassowary Coast Regional Council leased to the Dunk Island Group for 30 years as part of a desire to restore the island as a major tourist destination.
Ms Cannon-Brookes said the new beachfront restaurant aims to enhance the public campgrounds and amenities.
“Our goal is to be good custodians of the island, and we are pleased to be making progress,” she said.
“We are working hard to create a family-friendly destination that underpins the local tourism sector, preserves the natural environment and celebrates the island’s cultural significance.
“It’s a big task and wouldn’t be possible without the tremendous support we’ve received from the local community”.
The newly constructed restaurant has beachfront views of the jetty and a casual dining menu inspired by tropical flavours.
It supports a refreshed camping experience and utilities upgrades and a renovated barbecue area.
It is the first phase of a broader redevelopment plan for the island which has been in the doldrums following the devastating impact of Cyclone Yasi in 2011.
The 10 square kilometre island off Mission Beach in far north Queensland has had a chequered history being owned by Qantas and P&O in the 1990s and later by Voyages and Hideaway Resorts.
Linc Energy founder Peter Bond and his Family Island Operations business bought the island after Cyclone Yasi in 2011 with plans to revitalise the resort but later sold it to investment company Mayfair 101, headed by spruiker James Mawhinney.
When Mayfair 101 collapsed and failed to meet payment terms, the Bond family repossessed Dunk Island in 2020.
Dunk Island Spit general manager Jason Blackburn said revitalising a cyclone-devastated island was no small undertaking.
“Milestones like this remind us why it’s all worthwhile. It’s been fantastic to see families, campers and day-trippers embracing the new dining experience and the feedback so far has been excellent,” he said.
“Importantly, this is just the beginning of broader revitalisation plans. Our priority has been restoring The Spit so locals and visitors alike can enjoy it safely and sustainably, while we continue to work through plans for other sections of the island.”
Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood welcomed the opening as a positive outcome for the region.
“Dunk Island is a treasured part of our coastal identity, and it’s wonderful to see this first stage come to life,” she said.
“Council is proud to have partnered with Dunk Island Group to activate The Spit, and we look forward to continuing to work together to preserve and celebrate this beautiful island for future generations.”
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Originally published as Billionaire Annie Cannon-Brookes wraps up the first phase of the revitalisation of Dunk Island
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