- The Crisafulli Government is backing a bold plan to deliver new world-class, all-abilities Brisbane River tourism experiences.
- The $80 million Tourism Icon Investment Fund supports the delivery of new 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 backed a bold new vision for Brisbane River eco‑tourism, featuring a cross‑river wheelchair-accessible flying fox and a suspended picnic experience.
Proposed by tourism operator John Sharpe, the Brisbane River Icons project includes a wheelchair‑accessible flying fox between Kangaroo Point and the City Botanic Gardens, an accessible high‑line picnic experience at Kangaroo Point, two custom wheelchair‑accessible boats, and upgraded river access infrastructure to support eco‑adventure experiences.
Brisbane River Icons has received $2.1 million through the first round of the Crisafulli Government's $80 million Tourism Icons Investment Fund, a flagship initiative under Destination 2045.
Round 1 of the fund has also committed $1 million to deliver The Outback Tourism EcoLink Project at the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame in Longreach and $1.8 million for a major upgrade to the Great Keppel Island Hideaway Bistro.
This investment builds on more than $7.6 million already committed to 30 regional tourism projects, reinforcing the Crisafulli Government's commitment to growing tourism in communities across Queensland.
The Crisafulli Government through Destination 2045 is positioning Queensland to become a global leader in tourism which is in stark contrast to the former Labor Government's plan to axe millions in tourism funding and leave the industry to suffer.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said world-class tourism experiences would draw more people to Queensland.
"The Brisbane River is one of Brisbane's greatest assets, and activating it is key to encouraging visitors to stay longer and experience more of our great state," Minister Powell said.
"Global attention from the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games is a rare advantage and investing now is how we turn it into longer stays and deeper exploration across Queensland.
"The Crisafulli Government is committed to delivering better tourism opportunities in Queensland after a decade of decline under the former Labor Government who had a secret plan to gut tourism funding."
Developer John Sharpe said the Brisbane River Icons project would create a world-class adventure and eco-tourism network, featuring a dual accessible flying fox, accessible highline and suspended picnic and wheelchair lift experience.
"This funding will enable us to deliver landmark experiences that connect people with the beauty of the Brisbane River while promoting inclusivity and accessibility, attracting visitors from across Queensland and beyond, boosting the local economy and supporting jobs," Mr Sharpe said.
"We are grateful to the Queensland Government for their investment in this visionary project, which will help cement Brisbane's reputation as a vibrant and innovative tourism destination."
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.
