GREAT EXPECTATIONS FOR QUEENSLAND’S NEW ‘GREAT WALKS’

Queensland’s first round of spectacular Great Walks were on track to be up and running by the end of the year and concept planning had begun for the next round, Environment Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr told Parliament today.

Ms Nelson-Carr said since 2001 the Beattie Government had invested $16.5 million to establish a world-class system of Great Walks across Queensland.

“Five of the six original walks costing $10 million – Fraser Island, Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Wet Tropics, Mackay Highlands and Whitsunday – are being enjoyed by visitors.

“The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk will be finished by the end of the year.”

Ms Nelson-Carr said half the Gold Coast walk was finished, and work had begun to install pre-cast, stone-like steps in steep terrain between Binna Burra and Springbrook.

“Significant public consultation and impact assessment has also been undertaken to ensure this track is built and can be maintained with minimal environmental impact.

“In late 2006 the Beattie Government committed $6.5 million for another four Great Walks in Cooloola, the Conondale Range, Carnarvon and the Whitsunday Islands.

“Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service is working with Tourism Queensland to develop concept plans for each of these walks.

“The proposal for the Whitsunday Islands maritime walk is a new and exciting one, involving sailing or boating between several beautiful tropical islands, with a series of short walks to viewing spots from mooring points and campgrounds on the islands.

“The Carnarvon walk will link Mt Moffatt to the Carnarvon Gorge, allowing visitors to escape the crowds and experience natural landscapes.

“The Cooloola walk will link the tourism towns of Noosa and Rainbow Beach to the popular camping areas at Inskip Point.

“And the Conondale walk will include relatively easy or more challenging walks, with highlights including magnificent rainforests and spectacular waterfalls.”

Media contact: Karla Steen on 3336 8004 or Andie Gatti on 3336 8002