Cairns leaders flag concerns with Wangetti Trail’s direction under LNP

A Far North MP has dismissed the state government’s latest Wangetti Trail announcement as “window dressing” with new concerns emerging around the future of the long-delayed project.

Upon its completion in 2028, Far North tourism leaders expect thousands of hikers to use the Wangetti Trail each year. Picture: Supplied

A Far North MP has dismissed the state government’s latest Wangetti Trail announcement as “window dressing” with new concerns emerging around the future of the long-delayed project.

Since being elected, the LNP has made no progress on the 94km trail with just 7.8km of the trek, located between Palm Cove and Ellis Beach, completed last year, costing taxpayers a whopping $22.5m.

The first stage of the Wangetti Trail spans 7.8km taking in some of Far North Queensland's most spectacular landscape. Picture: Supplied

Tourism Minister Andrew Powell announced on Tuesday that the nearby Twin Bridges track would be re-opened with work on the second stage of the Wangetti Trail not scheduled to start until March next year.

Member for Cairns Michael Healy said reopening the shorter 18km track — which was closed in 2020 due to cyclone damage and deteriorated bridges — was being used as a distraction.

“Reopening a short section is no substitute for the iconic trail Queensland was promised,” Mr Healy said.

“Stakeholders who built the original Wangetti vision have been sidelined, while the government boasts about scraps of progress.

“Without transparency or commitment, this trail risks becoming another missed opportunity.”

Division nine councillor Brett Olds speaks at a Cairns Regional Council ordinary meeting, held in the council chambers on Spence Street, Portsmith. Picture: Brendan Radke

Cairns deputy mayor Brett Olds said he feared parts of the dual use trail would be scaled back in a bid to deliver the “world class” project under budget.

“You’re never going to get to Port Douglas under the old budge, especially after they spent $22 million to build around 7km worth of track,” Mr Olds said.

“People are starting to think parts of it will probably just be mountain biking. But there’s less money in mountain biking than in hiking.

“We were told that this project would bring in $300m a year.

“So if the state’s going to invest this money and you want to get that $300 million in return, is a bike track going to get you that? Or do you need to have both (hiking and mountain bike riding)?”

The first stage of the Wangetti Trail, a three-hour hike from Palm Cove to Ellis Beach, is suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Picture: Supplied.

Hiking would likely yield a greater return on investment for the region, Mr Olds said.

“People love it,” he said. “You look at Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island. There are some beautiful walks all around the world. People travel from everywhere to do El Camino.

“I think if you make it dual use, it’s going to make more money. There’s going to be more economic impact and return on investment for the community.”

Last month, Premier David Crisafulli promised to deliver “a once-in-a-generation ecotourism project” for the region.

“Queenslanders want to see it be something where we can not only celebrate the environment, we can improve it, raise some money, and put it back into improving it,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“And that’s why the next stage is really important.”

Originally published as Cairns leaders flag concerns with Wangetti Trail’s direction under LNP