Work begins on Ma:Mu Canopy Walk

Work had started on the $10 million Ma:Mu canopy walk project in Wooroonooran National Park, Environment Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr and Member for Mulgrave Warren Pitt announced today.

During a visit to the site today, Mr Pitt said he was very excited to see preliminary work had begun on the project.

“Since the proposal was put forward, the EPA has been working very closely with the traditional owners, the Ma:Mu people, and this strong association will continue when the facility is up and running,” Mr Pitt said.

“Local business will benefit substantially from the construction of the walkway which is expected to attract some 200,000 visitors a year and bring major economic benefits to local area.

“There will be opportunities for ancillary tourism and business ventures on the 14 hectares of adjacent freehold land, currently held by the Environmental Protection Agency.

“There will also be numerous jobs available during the construction, as well as jobs in the tourism and business ventures when the project is completed.”

Ms Nelson-Carr said the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had engaged Hutchison’s Builders to carry construction associated with the project.

“Hutchinsons will build the forest walkway, 400 metres of elevated canopy walk, a cantilevered lookout, a 31m tower, reception building, toilets, car park and intersection with the Palmerston Highway,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“As part of the contract, Hutchinson Builders have committed to sourcing materials and contractors from the local area.

“This will include purchasing $2.2 million worth of steel from Innisfail and Cairns, and contracting $1.5 million worth of civil works from Innisfail.”

Ms Nelson-Carr said the EPA would soon be inviting expressions of interest for the operation, maintenance and promotion of the facility.

The walkway is located strategically at the entrance of the Wooroonooran National Park, and will be the gateway for the park’s other natural and cultural values including the Misty Mountains trails, Henrietta Creek and South Johnstone camp sites, and the Tchupala Falls and Nandroya Falls walking tracks.

“This special, exciting, world class project demonstrates the commitment by the State Government to invest in the area and to continue its support following Cyclone Larry last year,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

The canopy walk project is due to be completed around the middle of next year.

For further details contact: Jennelle Jeffery A/Policy Advisor – 0438 173 887