- Crisafulli Government gives Sunshine Coast tourism a major boost with the approval of a 150-site tourist park proposal at Coochin Creek.
- Decision follows comprehensive assessment that balances economic development and practical environmentalism.
- The Crisafulli Government is restoring confidence and unlock economic opportunities across the region.
The Crisafulli Government has approved a 150-site tourist park at Coochin Creek, near Caloundra, which will deliver more hotel beds, new jobs, and a fresh start for Queensland tourism.
The landmark decision follows a comprehensive assessment that addressed environmental safeguards, alongside infrastructure and economic considerations.
The decision was made after rigorous consultation and aligns with the Crisafulli Government's Destination 2045 tourism strategy and recent planning reforms that encourage low-impact ecotourism in regional landscapes including through partnerships with the private sector.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie said the decision reflected the Crisafulli Government's commitment to unlock new ecotourism opportunities through responsible planning and end years of economic uncertainty under Labor.
"During their decade of decline, Labor's restrictive planning laws strangled investment and drove investment away, but the Crisafulli Government is taking decisive action to restore confidence and unlock economic opportunities across the region," Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
"Queensland's tourism future depended on projects like this and Coochin Creek will proceed with strong safeguards in place to protect the environment and ensure visitor safety, while supporting jobs and tourism growth.
"Unlocking ecotourism across Queensland will create future jobs, support local communities, and unlock new opportunities for operators.
"This decision was made after a rigorous process that considered expert advice and community input.
"The conditions we've imposed will ensure the project respects the unique environmental values of the area while delivering huge economic benefits for the Sunshine Coast region."
Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said the Crisafulli Government was committed to unlocking Queensland's potential for tourism.
"This decision reflects our landmark Destination 2045 strategy to support the tourism industry and deliver a better lifestyle to Queenslanders through a stronger economy," Minister Powell said.
"We want to see more low impact and high-quality ecotourism opportunities, and we will continue to work with the private sector and community to ensure Queensland is the number one destination in Australia."
Member for Caloundra Kendall Morton welcomed the decision, highlighting its potential to transform the region's tourism and economic landscape.
"This project is a game-changer for the Sunshine Coast," Ms Morton said.
"It will give our region the opportunity to boost ecotourism offerings and showcase our natural assets, attracting visitors who want an authentic experience.
"Beyond tourism, the economic ripple effect will be significant – creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and driving growth across sectors."
Comiskey Group Director David Comiskey said the approval represented the culmination of a five-year planning and approvals process, and the company was pleased to move into construction.
"While we have drawn on our experience building, owning and operating the popular Sandstone Point Holiday Resort, Coochin Creek Tourist Park will be a unique destination in its own right, thoughtfully designed for its natural setting," Mr Comiskey said.
"The project will create local jobs, attract new visitors to the region and deliver a high-quality, family-friendly eco-tourism experience that showcases the Sunshine Coast."
Sunshine Coast Business Council Chair Sandy Zubrinich said tourism was a key sector supporting the regional economy.
"The Comiskey Group is internationally known for developing and operating some of Australia's most successful and award-winning tourism venues and this development adds to the diversity and choice to attract tourists to the area," Ms Zubrinich said.
Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel said the announcement was a huge win for the tourism industry.
"The tourist park will deliver much needed new accommodation for the region while also strengthening the Sunshine Coast's reputation as a leading eco-tourism destination."
