A zipline and suspended picknickers over Brisbane River are among tourism projects that are receiving funding from the Queensland Government.
A brainchild of tourism operator and developer John Sharpe, the Brisbane River Icons project involves a zipline crossing the river between Kangaroo Point and the botanic gardens.
In addition, there will be a high‑line suspended picnic option, two wheelchair‑friendly boats and upgraded jetties for unspecified eco‑adventures.
The government says $2.1 million has gone to operators Tangalife for the Icons project under the first round of funding from its $80m Tourism Icons Investment Fund.
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell claims that their tourism experiences will draw more visitors to Queensland.
“The river is one of Brisbane’s greatest assets; activating it is key to encouraging visitors to stay longer and experience more of our state,” he says.
Powell believes the global attention that will fall on Brisbane as it hosts the 2032 Olympic Games “is a rare advantage” and efforts to keeps visitors in the state longer needs to start now.
WHEELCHAIRS ON THE ZIPLINE
Sharpe claims his project will create an adventure/eco-tourism network with its dual wheelchair-accessible zipline, suspended picnic and wheelchair lift experiences.
“This funding will enable us to deliver landmark experiences that connect people with the beauty of the Brisbane River while promoting inclusivity and accessibility, attracting visitors …, boosting the local economy and supporting jobs,” he says.
Other projects to be funded under the round involve $1m going to the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame in Longreach and $1.8m for a major upgrade of the Great Keppel Island Hideaway resort bistro.
The Longreach museum will redevelop a 2.4-hectare lakes precinct with new walking trails, wetlands restoration and a large sheltered environmental interpretive facility.
The government has already spent $7.6m on 30 regional tourism projects.
More round 1 funded projects will be announced this financial year while applications for the next round will open later this year.
For more details, visit: https://www.detsi.qld.gov.au/tourism/funding-grants/tourism-icons-investment-fund
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