- One small step for hikers, one giant leap for Queensland as work finishes on the first of the Destination 2045 45X45 ecotourism experiences in the Whitsundays.
- Set to become one of Queensland's premier ecotourism experiences, the Ngaro Track will soon welcome low-impact, multi-day guided commercial tours.
- Starting at the world-famous Whitehaven Beach, the 32-kilometre track features eco-campsites and breathtaking coastal vistas.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a fresh start and a plan for Queensland's future, after a decade of ecotourism decline under Labor.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future and a new era of ecotourism, with construction now complete on one of the State's most spectacular walking tracks in the Whitsundays.
On Whitsunday Island, Ngaro Track will offer guided and self-guided tours for a range of first-class ecotourism experiences, with bookings to open by the end of November.
As part of the commitment to deliver 45 ecotourism experiences by 2045 - outlined in the Crisafulli Government's ambitious 20-year tourism plan Destination 2045 - the Ngaro Track will welcome low-impact, guided commercial tours and self-sufficient walkers to experience the natural and cultural wonders of the Whitsundays like never before.
The landmark project heralds in a new age of ecotourism after a decade of decline and delay under the former Labor Government, which saw just three ecotourism projects approved in 10 years.
Traversing 32 kilometres from world-famous Whitehaven Beach with its pure silica sand, to the breathtaking Hill Inlet, the track offers hikers stunning island views, and two new overnight campsites.
The project also offers an immersive connection to Country, celebrating rich Ngaro cultural heritage while creating meaningful First Nations employment and business opportunities.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the Crisafulli Government was delivering a fresh start for Queensland's tourism industry.
"Queensland is the home of the holiday, and opening up immersive experiences in some of Queensland's most jaw-dropping destinations is what makes our state so memorable," Minister Powell said.
"The Ngaro Track will offer hikers the opportunity to step into an extraordinary landscape, learn about cultural connections, and take home life-long memories, leaving only their footprints behind.
"Move over, Tasmania – Queensland is setting a new benchmark for ecotourism with our Destination 2045 plan."
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm welcomed the stunning addition to local tourism offerings.
"This is exactly what visitors and locals want to see in this beautiful part of the world," said Ms Camm.
"The ability to be immersed in nature, and be guided through such an important cultural destination, will be unique for everyone who does the Ngaro Track."
Following an Expression of Interest process, the Queensland Government has finalised a commercial agreement with World Expeditions (WEX), a world leader in small group trekking and cycling adventure holidays, to deliver guided tours along the track.
Michael Buggy, World Expeditions (WEX) Director of Australasian Operating Companies Michael Buggy said WEX was delighted to play a role in bringing the Ngaro Track to the public.
"We're thrilled to partner with the Queensland Government to offer travelers a new way to experience the Whitsundays through the Ngaro Track," Mr Buggy said.
"The Ngaro Track is more than just a spectacular hike – it's an opportunity to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the Whitsundays.
"We can't wait to welcome walkers on the Ngaro Track, Queensland's newest multi-day hiking adventure and a truly special journey through one of Australia's most iconic landscapes."
