- The Crisafulli Government is backing a new tourism experience at the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame at Longreach.
- The $80 million Tourism Icons 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 $1 million to strengthen the future of Outback tourism, backing a new attraction set to benefit Longreach for decades to come.
The Outback Tourism EcoLink Project will transform the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame precinct with a revitalised lakes area, wetlands restoration, modern visitor amenities and a major undercover interpretive space, enhancing one of Queensland's most iconic Outback experiences.
Already a cornerstone of any visit to Longreach, the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame will be further elevated through the project, encouraging visitors to stay longer, explore more of the region and inject more into the local economy.
Funded through the $80 million Tourism Icons Investment Fund, a flagship initiative under Destination 2045, the project reflects the Crisafulli Government's clear focus on growing a strong, sustainable tourism industry and cementing Queensland's reputation as the home of the holiday.
The announcement builds on more than $7.6 million committed earlier this year to 30 regional tourism experiences, reinforcing the Crisafulli Government's commitment to supporting tourism growth in communities right across the state.
This vision is in stark contrast to the decade of decline under the former Labor Government who had a secret plan to slash tourism funding which would have left Queensland without new tourism products and operators without the confidence they need to invest.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the investment was about unlocking tourism opportunities across Queensland, with regions like Longreach playing a vital role.
"We know how important tourism is to communities like Longreach, and that's why we are grabbing the bull by the horns and backing quality experiences that will continue to draw visitors for decades to come," Minister Powell said.
"The Outback Tourism EcoLink Project will deliver experiences that inspire people to travel, encourage longer stays and build confidence across the local tourism sector and further cement our reputation as the Home of the Holiday.
"While Labor had a secret plan to gut tourism funding, we are investing in our operators and delivering opportunities that attract visitors and strengthen our communities."
Member for Gregory Sean Dillon said the funding was a major win for Longreach and the wider Outback.
"This is a significant attraction that draws considerable and critical visitor support for small businesses and the Longreach community generally," Mr Dillon said.
Stockman's Hall of Fame CEO Lloyd Mills said the Outback Tourism Ecolink Project would transform the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame with new walking trails, wetlands restoration, and an undercover environmental interpretive facility.
"This funding will enable us to deliver a unique blend of tourism and environmental infrastructure, showcasing the beauty and heritage of Longreach, attracting more visitors to the region, boosting the local economy and creating opportunities for the community," Mr Mills said.
"Thanks to this Queensland Government support, we can continue to preserve and promote the rich history of the outback, ensuring Longreach remains a cornerstone of Queensland's tourism offering."
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.
