- The Crisafulli Government is delivering funding for a new Queensland Big Icon and upgraded tourism in Far North Queensland.
- The $80 million Tourism Icon Investment Fund supports the delivery of world-class tourism experiences across Queensland.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future after a decade of decline under Labor.
The Crisafulli Government has committed more than $677,000 to deliver new and improved tourism experiences in Far North Queensland.
A $677,000 commitment to Barron River Rafting will deliver a new Queensland Big Icon, "The Big Paddles", along with upgrades including improved visitor facilities, amenities, a cafe, equipment storage and new community green spaces to enhance the overall experience.
The Barron River Rafting experience currently welcomes more than 16,000 people a year and supports events with up to 500 people.
This project is funded through the $80 million Tourism Icon Investment Fund, a key initiative of Destination 2045 and shows the Crisafulli Government's commitment to supporting tourism growth after a decade of decline under the Former Labor Government.
Round 1 of the Tourism Icon Investment Fund has also committed $1 million to deliver The Outback Tourism EcoLink Project at the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame in Longreach, $1.8 million to the Great Keppel Hideaway Renewal and $2.1 million to boost eco-tourism around the Brisbane River.
This announcement is in addition to the more than $7.6 million committed earlier this year to 30 regional tourism operators.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the Crisafulli Government was committed to investing in better tourism experiences in Far North Queensland.
"This is all about backing our Queensland tourism operators and giving them the confidence to grow and keep delivering world-class experiences," Minister Powell said.
"We're cementing Queensland's reputation as the home of the holiday and backing experiences people just can't get anywhere else.
"The Crisafulli Government is investing in our operators and delivering iconic tourism opportunities which is in stark contrast to the former Labor Government whose plan was to gut tourism funding."
Member for Barron River Bree James said this funding would support tourism operators to deliver upgrades that would benefit them well into the future.
"These tourism experiences are already iconic, but these upgrades will take them to the next level and encourage visitors to stay longer in region," Ms James said.
"Far North Queensland thrives on tourism, and the Crisafulli Government is backing the unforgettable experiences that draw more people to Queensland and strengthen local jobs and businesses."
Cairns Adventure Group Director Roderic Rees said the funding would allow the creation of a flood-resilient Rafting Operations Centre at Lake Placid, supporting the iconic Barron River rafting experience.
"Our project will include visitor facilities, training spaces and an alfresco café making Lake Placid a vibrant destination for both locals and tourists alike, while the addition of "The Big Paddles" and eco‑friendly design elements will further enhance the area's appeal," Mr Rees said.
"We are grateful for the Queensland's Governments investment in forward thinking businesses; this project will drive economic growth and have enduring positive outcomes for Far North Queensland."
Tourism Tropical North Queensland Chief Executive Officer Mark Olsen said the Tourism Icon Investment Fund was a game changer for destinations in delivering on the aspirations of Destination 2045.
"The tourism industry is grateful for the ongoing support of the Crisafulli Government to evolve the tourism industry which employs one in six people in Tropical North Queensland," Mr Olsen said.
Further Tourism Icons Investment Fund Round 1 projects will be announced this financial year, while applications for the next round of the Tourism Icons Investment Fund will open later in 2026.
