General News
4 March, 2025
Bright future for island
EXPRESSIONS of interest are being called for the rundown Double Island Resort.
The Crisafulli government has converted Double Island to state-owned freehold to activate tourism opportunities.
Natural Resources Minister Dale Last said the change would allow the state government to negotiate fit-for-purpose commercial leases that would help restore Double Island as a premier tourist attraction.
“We know the community has immense pride in this local gem and they’ve advocated strongly for the restoration of Double Island for both locals and visitors,” he said.
“We promised a fresh start for Double Island and this is the first step in delivering it.
“Expressions of interest, looking for an operator with a forward-looking tourism vision for Double Island, will soon be open, to ensure the gem in the Far North’s tourism crown is finally reopened to Queenslanders and the world.
“Converting the island to state-owned freehold land gives us stronger powers to negotiate commercial leases and ensure leaseholders provide world-class tourism offerings and are accountable to the people of Queensland. Securing the future of Double Island is an important part of our tourism strategy, and this local paradise needs the right operator to be successful and sustainable into the future.
“This step forward follows consultation with the local community and other stakeholders about the future of Double Island, as well as market sounding with industry.”
Member for Barron River and assistant tourism minister Bree James said she was excited about Double Island’s future.
“This is a new era for an island treasure that Far North Queenslanders know and love,” she said.
“Our community has loudly advocated for the restoration of Double Island to its former glory, and this is an important step toward achieving that.
“This is what we’ve all been waiting for and I’m excited for both locals and visitors to be able to explore Double Island.”
Advance Palm Cove president Robert Van Den Hoven said a “forward-looking tourism vision” for Double Island aligned perfectly with his organisation’s vision for Palm Cove.
“Together, Palm Cove and Double Island will offer guests and locals an incredible tourism experience right on our doorstep. We are pleased that the government has emphasised accessibility and a commitment to sustainable tourism,” he said.
“Being only a kilometre offshore, safe and comfortable water taxis and ferries linking the island to the mainland will be a major boost for the local tourism industry and residents alike.
“However, it will be crucial to develop a marine transport solution that operates year-round, even during the strong trade winds that can make jetty access challenging
Tourism Palm Cove president Matthew Cork said the island was “crucial for the future of Palm Cove as it carries a profound history from both a First Nations perspective and a tourism point of view.”
He said it would “pave the way for a thriving community and vibrant tourism that honours its extraordinary heritage”.
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