$1.5m announced for campground upgrades at Hinchinbrook Island
An iconic north Queensland wilderness trail will be enhanced through the creation of a pure remote and nature experience for serious multi-day hikers. Full details of the project.
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An iconic north Queensland wilderness trail will be enhanced through the creation of a pure remote and nature experience for serious multi-day hikers.
A total of $1.5m has been earmarked for Thorsborne Trail improvements and allocated in the 2023-24 budget.
The Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island National Park (Munamudanamy) is an iconic 32km multi-day hiking experience through spectacular coastal and mountain scenery.
The trail is a major Cassowary Coast tourism drawcard and is visited by hikers from across the globe.
The upgrade project, to be funded over a three-year period, will involve Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service working with Hinchinbrook Island traditional owners, the Bandjin and Girramay peoples.
According to the Department of Environment and Science, existing infrastructure and campgrounds will be upgraded and multi-day hikers on the island will be separated from other users in order to offer a true remote and wild nature experience.
“In keeping with the desired remote and wild experience, site upgrades will be generally low-key and will focus on better site design and flow,” a DES spokesman said.
“Low-key park furniture (such as) log seats, platforms and pack racks will also be provided.”
The Queensland government officially abandoned ill-conceived plans in 2021 to commercialise eco-tourism on Hinchinbrook Island through low-impact glamping-style accommodation after traditional owners, the Thorsborne family and green groups rallied against the move.
Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto said extra funding was an exciting prospect for the region’s tourism industry.
“This funding will ensure that Hinchinbrook Island remains a top tourism destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers,” Mr Dametto said.
“I understand that traditional owners were presented with designs earlier this year and future meetings are on the horizon to progress plans for campground and walking trail improvements.”
The Hinchinbrook MP said he expected to meet with new Environment Minister Leanne Linard to discuss plans for the trail and request a status report on the Wallaman Falls visitor infrastructure project.
That project has been delayed by an alleged bungling of the traditional owner consultation process.
Replacement of existing toilets will also be a major part of the Thorsborne Trail upgrade, which is expected to be completed in 2025.
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Originally published as $1.5m announced for campground upgrades at Hinchinbrook Island
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