A total of six eco-tourism projects are set to receive a share in $9.3 million of state government funding and the Pioneer Valley Tourism Hub has been named one of them.
The Activate Ecotourism Infrastructure initiative will provide funds to kickstart an outdoor tourism hub that will accommodate up to 26 visitors in a brand-new lodge to be built in Finch Hatton.
It is hoped the lodge will complement the new bike trails in the area and open opportunities for guided fishing experiences at the nearby dams.
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the announcement marks the start of an exciting time for tourism in the area.
“The natural environment of the Pioneer Valley near Mackay has amazing potential as an international mountain bike destination,” she said.
“Delivering more than 40 construction and ongoing jobs, the Pioneer Valley Outdoor Tourism Hub is about boosting access to the region’s outstanding fishing and hiking experiences.
“The Hub will also support future mountain biking tours and generate up to $3 million for the Mackay region’s visitor economy.”
Chief Operating Officer of Mackay Tourism, Al Grundy, said that he is thrilled with the announcement.
“It will be a great base for people coming the region to use the mountain bike trails,” he said.
“I think the project will really activate Finch Hatton and the Pioneer Valley.”
The Lodge will be utilised by tour guides and operators from across the country and it is set to offer a spotlight for the showcasing the natural environment of the Mackay hinterland.
Finch Hatton is the gateway to a plethora of tourist activities, from fully stocked dams to rainforests, scenic walks, bike trails and it is only 20 minutes to Broken River where you can view platypus in the wild.
“It’s really good for our region as it opens up some many more options for land-based activities,” said Mr Grundy.
“There will be a brand new building in town, right next to the bike trails so I think it will get a lot of use.”
An artist’s impression of the Pioneer Valley Tourism Hub, a two storey lodge that sleeps up to 26 people
