Great Ideas forum to rejuvenate Double Island

• Follows strong online response from local community
• Revitalised Double Island will be a vital part of Far North Queensland tourism industry.

Locals are being encouraged to share their next great idea to rejuvenate Double Island off the Far North Queensland Coast,

A community forum was held yesterday at Peppers Beach Club, Palm Cove.

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 many years.

Over 3,700 people have visited an online engagement hub since it was launched two weeks ago and have submitted more than 163 ideas.

Quotes attributable to Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart:

“We want to see Double Island developed sustainably, for the long-term, using practices that minimises any impact on our Great Barrier Reef,” Mr Stewart said.

“To achieve that vision, it will take the voices and experiences of many.

“I know that the people of Palm Cove and Cairns feel strongly about what Double Island’s future should look like.

Quotes attributable to Tourism Minister and Member for Cairns Michael Healy:

 “I want to thank the thousands of locals who have already visited and submitted ideas online.

“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.”

Quotes attributable to to Member for Barron River Craig Crawford:

“We’ve seen several themes emerging from the public input with some great ideas   from wanting to ensure day use facilities, access for campers, to eco and wellness tourism.

“Others suggest opportunities for indigenous tourism and turning the island into a conservation area.

“I encourage anyone who can to go online share their thoughts about Double Island’s rejuvenation.”

Further Information

Interviews and overlay: Click Here

The engagement hub is now open until September 13.

ENDS

Media contact: Kash Greene - 0450 507 496