Palaszczuk Government purchases Far North Queensland land for conservation

The Palaszczuk Government has delivered on an election commitment – putting into public hands one of the largest stretches of remaining bushland in the Cairns Northern Beaches area.

Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said today the government had purchased land proposed for the Earl Hill development at Trinity Beach, protecting it from developers.

Mr Crawford said the plan was to turn the 54 hectare property into a conservation park by year’s end.

“The Palaszczuk Government’s acquisition of the property will protect the land’s conservation values, and guarantee it remains available to the public for recreational opportunities,” Mr Crawford said.

“This is a popular walking area, and a real local gem for the far north and I am thrilled we have been able to save it.

“Thanks to the Palaszczuk Government, locals and visitors will continue to enjoy the property’s immersive bushwalks and outstanding scenic views.”

Mr Crawford said there was a walking track on the property, leading to a stunning view of Trinity Bay.

He said Earl Hill was also home to threatened species, endangered and of-concern regional ecosystems.

“The property contains suitable habitat for the Macleay’s fig parrot, beach stone-curlew, and Apollo jewel butterfly,” Mr Crawford said.

“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to enhancing the state’s protected area estate and one of the best ways to do this is to buy land with conservation values when it becomes available.”

Environment Minister Leeanne Enoch said it was important to protect areas like Earl Hill to ensure Queenslanders can continue to enjoy the natural beauty they provide.

“The property is proposed to be dedicated as a conservation park by the end of the year, protecting this land’s conservation values for the people of Queensland,” Ms Enoch said.

“Earl Hill abuts the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and will be managed by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) as a conservation park.

“Initial works by QPWS rangers will focus on formalising walking tracks, allowing visitors to continue walking up to the summit,” she said.

Media Contacts:

Mr Crawford: 0412 393 909

Minister Enoch: 0437 859 987