$1 million revamp for Babinda Boulders to boost FNQ tourism

Far North Queensland’s iconic swimming spot at Babinda Boulders is now accessible to more visitors after a $1 million upgrade that protects and enhances its spectacular natural beauty.

Minister for Local Government Stirling Hinchliffe today officially opened the revamped rainforest attraction with Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt and Division 1 Cairns Regional Councillor Brett Moller.

Mr Hinchliffe said funding from the Works for Queensland program had delivered a refurbished boardwalk and wheelchair access to the popular swimming hole.

“Locals and visitors know the Babinda Boulders is a very special place and these careful improvements will increase its tourism potential while balancing the need to protect the natural environment,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“This project is a great example of how the jobs-generating Works for Queensland program is improving regional economic opportunities while creating and supporting local jobs.

“The Babinda Boulders revamp is one of 327 approved Local Government projects in Far North Queensland which councils report are supporting 1,217 jobs in the region.”
 
The Babinda Boulders upgrade includes an all-abilities access to the swimming hole, new pedestrian entry, a viewing platform over the river at the main visitor area, the refurbishment of shelters, balustrades, bridges and decks and carpark improvements.

Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt said that locals had previously raised concerns about the structural integrity of the old timber bridges, and that they were slippery and dangerous when wet.

“The Boulders is a popular swimming hole that can be accessed all year round and these upgrades now allow better access for locals and tourists of all abilities," Mr Pitt said.

“This upgrade isn’t just an investment in the liveability of Babinda, it’s an investment in tourism infrastructure to entice travellers into the Munro Street shopping precinct.

“Visitations to The Boulders increase every year and I am pleased that Cairns Regional Council have been able to address the growing needs of the community, with the help of the State Government’s Works for Queensland funding.”

Division 1 Cairns Regional Councillor Brett Moller said the Babinda Boulders upgrade was already having a positive impact on the community.

“Works for Queensland projects are improving our cities and towns while giving local businesses an economic boost and providing much needed regional jobs,” Cllr Moller said.

Projects in the second $200 million round of W4Q grants are now underway in many regional areas.

By way of an election commitment, the Palaszczuk Government has committed to a third $200 million funding round to extend the program until 2020-21.

For more information visit https://www.dilgp.qld.gov.au/local-government/grants/works-for-queensland

Media contact: Martin Philip 0427 919 548