Queensland will display its top environmental assets to the world under a new eco-tourism plan to boost visitor numbers to the State's protected areas.
The Queensland Government is looking to establish eco-tourism holiday accommodation at seven destinations throughout the state, including:
- Eurong on Fraser Island
- Wallaman Falls at Girringun, west of Cardwell
- Ninny Rise at Mission Beach
- Jonah Bay at Whitsunday
- Mount Mee, D'Aguilar National Park
- Green Mountain, Lamington National Park
- Cowan South on Moreton Island
"For years other states have successfully rolled out low impact accommodation in or adjacent to their most popular parks," Anna Bligh says, Queensland premier.
"For instance, on the edge of the world-heritage listed Cradle Mountain in Tasmania there is an eco-friendly tourist lodge; Victoria's Wilsons Promontory National Park features non-intrusive safari tents; and visitors can stay in small huts at Western Australia's Karijini National Park.
"Under our plan, eco-accommodation, such as semi-permanent safari tents, will be established with tight environmental controls to ensure minimal environmental impact.
"Introducing more people into our national parks will not only be a major boost for tourism, it will help to build awareness about conservation, and encourage more people to appreciate and respect our incredible natural environment."
The new infrastructure will be operated and built by private companies but remain under state ownership. The State will lease the facilities to private operators and invest the yearly income back into the same national park for continuing improvement and conservation.
The Queensland Government will be seeking expressions of interest from private investors to develop the accommodation.
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