Straddie begins transition to future

Published Thursday, 01 September, 2016 at 02:55 PM

Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines
The Honourable Dr Anthony Lynham

A $28-plus million economic strategy kicks off tomorrow to guide North Stradbroke Island through the transition to an eco-tourism hub.

Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham said the Palaszczuk Government’s economic transition strategy would generate more than 150 jobs in sustainable tourism, local business and education and training.

“This is the beginning of a new chapter for North Stradbroke Island as it transitions to a more diverse and sustainable economy when sand mining ends in 2019,” he said.

Dr Lynham said a local State Government coordinator would be at work at Dunwich from tomorrow (Eds: Friday) working with locals.

“On Monday the permanent local office will open and the coordinator will be at work on the island Monday to Wednesday working with locals, on the ground, where stakeholders have told us they want to see action,” he said.

The strategy includes 23 initiatives to stimulate sustainable jobs and business opportunities for island and its community.

Over the next 12 months under the economic transition strategy, the government will:

  • start work on improving camping amenities, cabins, road access, and interpretative and location signage.
  • support the Quandamooka cultural festival,
  • progress the first stage of the Minjerribah Cultural Centre and
  • establish an Indigenous Business Development Fund to foster the potential of Indigenous tourism and education.
  • start master planning for Dunwich to underpin a visitor precinct and eco-tourism and resort accommodation.
  • identify and explore public transport improvements and integration as a priority
  • raise broadband connectivity with the Commonwealth.

Among the medium-to-longer term initiatives are a summit to attract private investment, a new Peel island jetty and improved recreational trails.

A committee of key stakeholders and state and local government officers will guide the implementation of the strategy and work with our island coordinator.

Dr Lynham said government would also consulting with unions, including the Australian Workers Union.

ENDS                        1 September, 2016

Media inquiries:        Jan Martin       0439 341 314