A new surf park and Australia’s large zipline will benefit from $8 million in state funding to boost Gold Coast tourism.
The money is coming from a public-private $80m Tourism Icon Investment Fund, the Queensland Government says.
Government will spend $4 on the Numinbah Escape Project involving what will be Australia’s largest zipline tour, mountain biking and bushwalking trails, abseil and buggy tours, guided bush walks, a 34-site tourist park, 10 glamping tents and cafe.
The government will also spend $4 million on the first stage of the Palm Valley Gold Coast surf park (which is backed by former world champion Mick Fanning) with its wave pool, surf academy and 18-hole golf course.
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell says they want more visitors to Queensland and are backing the creation of new attractions under their Destination 2045 strategy.
“These projects will attract more visitors to Queensland and strengthen the Gold Coast as a must-visit destination,” he says.
“We are proud to support these new tourism attractions alongside proponents who are, at a minimum, matching our investment.”
Experience Gold Coast’s Head of Visitor Economy and Corporate Relations Rachel Hancock says money from the fund “is crucial” to these attractions.
“We know that tourism is an ever-evolving industry … it’s an exciting road ahead for the Gold Coast with a pipeline of nature-based tourism experiences coming to market.”
PALM VALLEY SURF PARK
The MP for Bonney, Sam O’Connor predicts the Palm Valley project will strengthen the Gold Coast’s reputation as the surfing capital of Australia.
“Bringing a world-class wave pool to Parkwood means Gold Coasters and visitors alike will be able to enjoy consistent, high-quality surf conditions all year-round,” he says.
Parkwood Village Managing Director Luke Altschwager says the project will turn Parkwood Golf Club into a premier resort destination.
Three-time world surfing champion Mick Fanning says the funding news shows the government backs his vision for surf and the Gold Coast.
“Surf is at the heart of Palm Valley, with golf, hospitality and events built around it,” Mr Fanning said.
ESCAPE TO NUMINBAH
MP for Mudgeeraba Ros Bates claims the $4m earmarked for Numinbah Escape is a “vote of confidence” in Gold Coast hinterland tourism.
“Numinbah Valley is one of the Gold Coast’s hidden gems; this project will showcase its natural beauty to visitors while preserving what makes it so special,” she claims.
Project developer David Taylor says the $4m will help create a world-class, and unique, nature-based adventure destination.
“This funding will help us create a unique experience that showcases the natural beauty of the Gold Coast hinterland while boosting tourism and creating jobs,” he says.
OTHER QLD TOURISM NEWS: Zipline proposed for Brisbane City river crossing
