Queensland Government Plans Revitalization of Abandoned Great Barrier Reef Island

The Queensland government is seeking new tourism operators to revitalize Double Island, a once-thriving destination that has fallen into neglect. The island, located off Cairns in the Great Barrier Reef national park, was reclaimed by the state after the previous leaseholder, Hong Kong billionaire Benny Wu, failed to maintain it as a resort. With the 2032 Brisbane Olympics approaching, the government is eager to transform Double Island into a vibrant tourism asset, creating hundreds of jobs in the process. Natural Resources Minister Dale Last emphasized the importance of selecting an operator with a bold vision to restore the island to its former glory. CBRE has been appointed as the marketing agent to find a new leaseholder. The initiative aims to boost the local tourism sector and is seen as a significant opportunity for potential investors.