First look: the Gold Coast hinterland’s new tourism attraction

The Bulletin can reveal details of a $6.9 million eco-tourism project including new accommodation, a wagyu cellar door and a day spa opening in the hinterland.

THE Gold Coast will get new tourism attraction in the hinterland, in the first sign the city will be ahead of rival destinations as it recovers from the economic impact caused by COVID-19.

The Bulletin can reveal the Palaszczuk Government will partner with Hazelwood Estate to deliver a $6.9 million eco-tourism project including new accommodation, a wagyu cellar door and a day spa in the hinterland.

View from new tourism attraction in the Gold Coast hinterland – the Hazelwood Estate.

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones is to announce support for the project through the Attracting Tourism Fund.

Ms Jones said the project would create eight construction jobs and 18 operational jobs with opportunities for indigenous workers.

“Our tourism industry has been devastated by COVID-19. We must forge ahead with projects like this to create jobs and really drive our economy recovery,” she said.

“The coronavirus pandemic is only one of a number of blows to locals in this region — who also battled bushfires in recent months.

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New Gold Coast hinterland attraction – Hazelwood Estate.

“This project will help to create jobs and give local businesses a great leg up in the future.

“The flow-on effect of projects like these is massive — once it’s up and running, Hazelwood Estate will give a huge boost to the local economy in the hinterland.”

Ms Jones said Hazelwood Estate would attract an extra 18,000 tourists a year to the hinterland and pump an additional $4.5 million into the economy.

“The new elements will complement the existing Hazelwood Estate, which is a 75 acre working polo and Wagyu cattle farm in upper Beechmont, on the edge of the World Heritage listed Lamington National Park,” she said.

“The new accommodation of three eco-friendly luxury farm cottages and 17 safari-style tents will enable up to 40 guests to stay in addition to the existing homestead and guesthouse accommodation which can sleep 12 guests.”

Ms Jones said Hazelwood was targeting boutique weddings, corporate retreats and incentive events with both the domestic and overseas markets, particularly Asian visitors. The estate also plans to offer farm gate nature, wildlife and workshop experiences from a purpose built Tack Room for horse equipment.

New Gold Coast tourism attraction – the Hazelwood Estate in the hinterland.

“The next generation of tourists want an experience they can’t get anywhere else,” Ms Jones said.

“The Gold Coast hinterland is one of the most beautiful places in the world. This project will combine the natural beauty of the Scenic Rim with a unique food experience.”

Hazelwood Estate managing director Claire Burman said her company was incredibly excited to bring this unique tourism product to market, showcasing the very best of regional Queensland’s natural beauty and world-class produce on the doorstep of Brisbane and the Coast.

“Hazelwood will offer luxury accommodation, promote awareness of regional Queensland agricultural industries by partnering with Queensland farmers to deliver its authentic on-farm paddock-to-plate offering through its wagyu Cellar Door, enabling visitors to experience the best of regional Queensland within close proximity of the major tourism gateways of Brisbane and the Gold Coast,” she said.

Farm cottage – part of new Gold Coast hinterland tourism attraction – the Hazelwood Estate.

“Hazelwood’s experiential offerings have been designed to provide a true escape from modern city life, offering visitors genuine rural experiences, through a curated calendar of events, activities and workshops covering topics such as beekeeping, permaculture, horse riding, cooking and other creative pursuits.”

Ms Burman said the plan was for Hazelwood to “come to life in front of a global audience online’ showcasing local Queensland artisan products and farm projects encouraging visitors to ‘Bring Hazelwood Home’.