Thursday, November 21, 2024

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Whitsunday Skyway Receives $5M State Government Funding

A game-changing $5 million investment into the Whitsunday Skyway, was announced by the state government this week, invigorating an exciting new momentum to this legacy eco-tourism project.
The Whitsunday Skyway will be a ground-breaking new tourism activity located on the edge of Airlie Beach, nestled within the stunning Conway National Park. This innovative attraction will feature a cable car, breathtaking scenic viewpoints, food and beverage offerings, and a variety of activities and programs for visitors to enjoy.
The Skyway’s cable car base station will be just a short stroll from Airlie Beach, transporting guests to a summit in the Conway Ranges. From this vantage point, they will be treated to panoramic 360-degree views of the Coral Sea and the Whitsunday Islands. This experience offers a unique opportunity to provide easy access to one of the region's most spectacular sights, previously unavailable to the public.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell joined Whitsunday Skyway project proponent Elizabeth Hackett from Australian Adventure Tourism Group for a sneak preview of the new attraction destined for Airlie Beach.
Standing at the site of the proposed midway station, Minister Powell said visitors would be awestruck by the views.
“This attraction is exactly the sort of showcase we need to give tourists and locals alike a real understanding of the incredible natural beauty of the Whitsundays,” said Mr Powell.
“We know visitors are looking for these unique experiences, and I’m confident this will be a world class facility.
“The Crisafulli Government is pleased to commit $5 million to the project and will work with Ms Hackett to make sure the approval process is as efficient as possible.
“We know the right environmental protections need to be in place, because the major drawcard is the nature at its finest here in the Whitsundays.
“We also need to make sure that operators are getting their projects assessed in a timely way,” said Mr Powell.
Australian Adventure Tourism Group Chair, Elizabeth Hackett, welcomed the Government’s commitment.
“We are thrilled with this support for our venture,” said Ms Hackett.
“We want to get cracking with this amazing project so that locals win in the construction phase with jobs, and then visitors win with the completion of the Skyway with access to the best views in the world.”
The $100 million project is undergoing approvals at State and Federal levels before construction can commence.

Australian Adventure Tourism Group Chair, Elizabeth Hackett speaking at the funding announcement this week. To her right, Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell. Photo supplied

An artist’s impression of the Whitsunday Skyway. Supplied

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