Ideas welcome to revitalise Far North Queensland island

• Queenslanders encouraged to have their say on future use of Double Island.
• Community forum to be held in August in Cairns to discuss ideas.
• Revitalised Double Island will be a vital part of Far North Queensland tourism industry.

All ideas are welcome as Queenslanders are asked to have their say on revitalising one of the jewels in Far North Queensland’s tourism crown.

The tourism leases on Double Island held by Fortune Island Holdings Company were revoked in June, after years of failed promises to the community.

Double Island had been held by the lessee since 2013 but had not operated for over six years.

Queenslanders can have their say on the future use of the island via an online engagement hub.

This will be followed by a community forum in Palm Cove on 13 August.

Quotes attributable to Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart:

“Double Island holds a special place in the hearts of many Far North Queenslanders and as a government we are determined to see it once again be an icon of the region’s tourism industry,”

“The first step was to take back the island after years of failed promises from the lessee and that’s what I did last month when I revoked the tourism leases.

“Work is now underway to make the former resort safe and assess the existing infrastructure.  

“I gave a commitment that we would work with the community on how we can revitalise Double Island and I’m pleased to say that through the engagement hub locals can do just that.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Barron River Craig Crawford:

“Before we can go back onto the island, we are asking the community to tell us what they want to see this beautiful landmark used for.

“Visit the Engagement Hub and be a part of the conversation.

“I also encourage people to drop in and share their ideas at a community forum that will be held in Cairns on 13 August.”

Quotes attributable to Tourism and Sport Minister Michael Healy:

“This is the first step towards restoring Double Island back to its former glory and having people back onto the island.

“By working with the community, I’m sure that we will see Double Island return to its former glory as a tourism mecca and a true jewel in Queensland’s tourism crown.”

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Kash Greene, 0450 507 496