Department of Environment and Science release Thorsborne Trail Enhancement Project overview
Campsite redesigns, new toilets, and minor trail works are on the cards as details are released on the $1.5m upgrade to the world famous Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island. See the plans.
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Campsite redesigns, new toilets, and minor trail works are on the cards as details are released on the $1.5m upgrade to the world famous Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island.
In the 2023-24 State Budget, Hinchinbrook Island’s Thorsborne Trail scored $1.5m to upgrade and build new nature-based experiences and facilities.
On Thursday, the Department of Environment and Science released the Thorsborne Trail Enhancement Project overview, providing the details to the project.
Key project features will include a redesign of major visitor sights and campgrounds, replacing existing and supplying new toilets, a new longer pontoon at Ramsay Bay, and minor trail works.
The details come after possible plans to extend the world famous trail were hinted at in a survey of the island’s visitors asking hikers if they would like to see the 32km trek extended by “two additional days”.
DES confirmed it is investigating the feasibility of an extension but no current plans were in place.
Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto said it was great to see the State Government investing into tourism in North Queensland and in particular Hinchinbrook.
“We are lucky enough to have one of Australia’s largest island National Parks, Hinchinbrook Island, right at our doorstep and we are excited that the state government is investing $1.5m into the island however, we do need to iron out some of the issues that our local tourism operators are facing,” he said.
“The Thorsborne Trail Enhancement Project will enhance the hiker’s experience by improving major visitor sites and campgrounds, while still providing a remote and wild experience that hikers travel to Hinchinbrook Island for.”
While the department said the works to the Thorsborne Trail itself will remain in-line with the current remote class five hiking experience, Mr Dametto has made calls to make the adventure tourist drawcard more accessible.
“Although I welcome these minor upgrades, I still believe that we are completely missing the mark on what Hinchinbrook Island could be for Queensland eco-tourism.
“The track and the island’s natural assets really only accommodate the experienced or able-bodied hiker.
“In this day and age, we should be opening this natural asset up to everyone who wants to experience this beautiful island National Park, this means disability access and accommodation that caters to everyone.”
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Originally published as Department of Environment and Science release Thorsborne Trail Enhancement Project overview
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