Sneaky survey question reveals plans to expand tourism trail on tropical island
The state government is “investigating the feasibility of extending” a world renowned trail located on a World Heritage-listed island.
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The Queensland Government has accidentally tipped its hand regarding plans to expand an awe-inspiring trail located on a World Heritage-listed island.
But a conservation group has warned more consultation must be done, citing recent failed attempts to launch eco-tourism ventures at the site.
Hinchinbrook Island, located 165 kilometres southeast of Cairns, features the world renowned Thorsborne Trail, taking in lush rainforest and woodlands set against misty, heath-covered mountains.
In a survey to the island’s visitors, the Department of Environment and Science (DES) asked hikers if they would like to see the 32-kilometre trek extended by “two additional days”.
In a statement, a DES spokesperson confirmed it is “investigating the feasibility of extending the trail to Cape Richards” at the northern end of the island but added no “current plans” were in place.
“The 2017 Hinchinbrook Island National Park Management Plan and Visitor Strategy identifies a range of strategic management directions and objectives in relation to the Thorsborne Trail,” the spokesperson said.
“The aim of the visitor feedback survey is to gather further information on a range of topics to assist Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) in the ongoing management of the trail and the national park.
“QPWS is working with the Bandjin and Girramay Traditional Owners who share Munamudanamy (Hinchinbrook Island) to improve the Thorsborne Trail visitor experience.”
The revelation follows the state government’s abandoned “eco-accommodation” project on the island in 2019 which angered conservation groups and Traditional Custodians.
North Queensland Conservation Council (NQCC) coordinator Crystal Falknau said failing to engage with key stakeholders again would be ill-advised.
“The trail currently allows visitors to come and enjoy it in a way that doesn’t compromise its natural and cultural values,” Ms Falknau said.
“We hope that there will be wide and meaningful consultation, so that any future development doesn’t compromise those values and it stays in public hands.”
Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto, a longtime proponent of development on the island, said the almost 40,000-hectare park could sustain an increase in visitors.
“We need to remember the sheer size of the island when we talk about any ecotourism development,” Mr Dametto said.
“Improving campgrounds or extending the trail isn’t going to destroy the ecosystem.
“There are a number of tourism operators who aren’t able to expand and bring enough people to the destination.
“If you’ve got expansion of the trail then there would be an increase to capacity.”
Ms Falknau said NQCC had not been approached by DES regarding the trail but added protecting the island’s delicate ecosystem was the group’s main priority.
“We know how passionate people were about conserving the island’s natural values,” she said. “We’d certainly like some more information.”
Hinchinbrook Island has a chequered tourism record with the privately owned Cape Richards resort shut down following the global financial crisis in 2010.
It was later destroyed by Cyclone Yasi in 2011 and reclaimed by nature.
In 2019 taxpayers forked out $1.3million to clean up the island’s abandoned ruins.
Visitors must have a permit to walk the Thorsborne Trail with only 40 people allowed on the trail at any one time.
Originally published as Sneaky survey question reveals plans to expand tourism trail on tropical island
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