Community
14 December, 2024
Cultural park gets go-ahead
PLANS to build an Indigenous tourism park at Cape Tribulation has been given the green light by Douglas Shire Council.
The Jabalbina development application for an environmental facility, nature-based tourism, an outstation and a caretaker’s residence was approved subject to many conditions. The development includes 11 accommodation units, a performance circle, interpretative areas and a keeping place for storage of cultural items.
Mayor Lisa Scomazzon believes the development will boost tourism.
“I think this will be a great asset for tourism and employment at Cape Tribulation,” she said.
“I would like to see us all work together and I believe this can be done.”
Cr Michael Rees said it would be another tourist attraction for the Shire.
“I believe after careful consideration, this development has the potential to increase the number of visitors and average overnight stay in the area and enhance the overall visitor experience,” he said.
“Cultural experiences like this could act as a major draw card to the area which can only be a good thing.”
According to a council report the land comprises two lots fronting Cape Tribulation Road, south of the main commercial area of Cape Tribulation. The application has been made by Jabalbina which represents the traditional owners. The application seeks to develop the lots for the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Warra Community Tourism Park.
“The development comprises a range of uses including a performance circle and environmental facility, nature-based tourism / outstation with accommodation for 11 units and a caretaker’s accommodation,” it said.
On the Department of Environment, Science, Tourism and Innovation website, it is described as a new Indigenous cultural tourism centre where the rainforest meets the Reef to “promote the unique and diverse culture of the Eastern Kuku Yalanjiwarra people”.
“The Eastern Kuku Yalanjiwarra people are members of the oldest living culture in the world proudly caring for the oldest living rainforest in the world,” it said.
The Eastern Kuku Yalanjiwarra Culture and Tourism Hub development is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments and will be managed by the Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation.
“Visitors to the new hub will be able to meet Eastern Kuku Yalanji people and to learn about their land, sea and culture and enjoy performances including traditional ceremonies and dance,” the website.
“The centre will also have interpretative cultural and art displays and information about the two World Heritage areas it sits between and offer visitors access to a range of other cultural tourism experiences in the region,” it said.
Jabalbina did not respond to requests from the Gazette for further details of the project, including the cost, timeline and other information.
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