The Queensland Government and Djabugay Nation Elders and Leaders have celebrated the signing a Lands Use Agreement for the 94km Wangetti Trail, allowing work to begin on the $47.1 million project.
The Wangetti Trail will be Queensland’s only purpose-built walking and mountain bike track in a National Park, with the plans for Wangetti Trail including camping and eco-accommodation along the route, which will take hikers up to six days to complete.
The Queensland Government has invested $39.1 million in construction with the Federal Government’s National Tourism Icons Program contributing an additional $8 million.
Construction will deliver 150 Queensland jobs and sustainable, long-term tourism business opportunities for Traditional Owners.
The Wangetti Trail is co-designed with Djabugay Nations’ Traditional Owners including the Djabugay, Yirrganydji, Buluwai, Nyakali and Guluy groups.
Queensland Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, said the State Government is proud to back job creating infrastructure that also showcases Queensland’s great lifestyle and connection to its natural wonders.
“The Wangetti Trail will be the first track of its kind in a national park and a standout attraction for the Far North region,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“It’s great we can collaborate with the Djabugay Nations People on this unique cultural experience that will create stronger appreciation and understanding of Aboriginal culture.
“I’m pleased I could walk with Elders and leaders of the Djabugay Nation as we celebrate this important step forward.”
Queensland Minister for Tourism, Stirling Hinchliffe, said the new trail is set to change the global reputation of Tropical North Queensland to a world-class mountain bike and nature-based lifestyle destination.
“Ecotourism is growing rapidly, although few overseas destinations will match Wangetti Trail for breath-taking scenery and immersive First Nations cultural experiences,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“I want to thank the Djabugay Nations’ Elders and Leaders for their partnership, because without them Wangetti Trail’s economic opportunities wouldn’t be possible.
“We’re committed to supporting Traditional Owners to tap into global demand for ecotourism and authentic First Nations visitor experiences to build long-term jobs.
“Wangetti Trail’s tourism potential is enormous.”
Featured image: Wangetti Trail. Image courtesy of the Queensland Government
