FNQ tourism project moves to EIS

The environmental impact process is about to start for the proposed $640 million KUR-World integrated eco-resort near Kuranda in far north Queensland.

State Development Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said the independent Coordinator-General had declared the proposal a coordinated project, kicking off the EIS process.

“The Coordinator-General will work closely with the proponent and government agencies to ensure that all potential project impacts are considered and assessed and effective mitigation measures identified,” he said.

Member for Barron River Craig Crawford welcomed the opportunity for locals to have their say as part of the EIS process.

“Public consultation is an integral element of the EIS process and I know there are strong views in the community about this project,” Mr Crawford said.

“The site contains habitat of the protected Kuranda tree frog, but most of the development is proposed in the northern area of the site which has been cleared.”

The proponent, Reever and Ocean Developments Pty Ltd, is proposing a range of eco-resort accommodation and activities, which it forecasts will create 545 construction jobs and 600 operational jobs.

The proposal includes a luxury 200-room hotel, a three or four star resort, residential villa accommodation, education and business facilities plus health and wellbeing facilities, and adventure and recreation facilities.

The proponent owns the 626 hectare property, of which 230 hectares is proposed to be developed.

Dr Lynham said that the next stage would be the preparation by the Coordinator-General of draft terms of reference for the EIS, which would be released for public comment.

ENDS             12 July, 2016

Media inquiries:          Dr Lynham:     John Austin     0428 806 353

                                 Mr Crawford: 4229 0100