Pioneer Valley Ready to Lead Queensland’s Ecotourism Future

By Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP

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Recently, I welcomed Queensland’s Minister for Tourism and Environment, Andrew Powell, to our region for discussions about tourism, national parks and future opportunities for regional growth. We visited Eungella National Park, including the iconic platypus viewing area at Broken River, before meeting with tourism operators, community groups, progress associations and Mackay Isaac Tourism through the Eungella and Pioneer Valley Tourism Strategic Advisory Committee.

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What stood out most was the strong collaboration across our region. Local businesses, volunteers, tourism operators and community groups are all working together toward a shared vision of sustainable tourism that protects our natural environment while creating jobs and economic opportunities.

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Minister Powell himself noted that the level of cooperation in our region is uncommon across Queensland. That is something our community should be proud of.

The Crisafulli Government’s Destination 2045 strategy presents a significant opportunity for regions like ours. Nature-based tourism continues to grow in popularity, and few places are better positioned to benefit than the Pioneer Valley and Eungella. From rainforest walks and platypus encounters to waterfalls, mountain bike trails and country hospitality, our region offers world-class experiences that visitors increasingly seek.

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Importantly, our community understands that tourism growth and environmental protection must go hand in hand.

We discussed the importance of progressing Stage 2 of the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trail. The existing trail network is already attracting visitors and helping establish Finch Hatton as a premier adventure tourism destination. Expanding the network has the potential to deliver further benefits for accommodation providers, cafés, pubs and tourism operators throughout the valley.

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Importantly, projects of this scale cannot attract State Government funding until the necessary planning, land tenure and approval processes are completed. That is why I encourage Mackay Regional Council to continue working closely with the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation to ensure the project is ready when future funding opportunities become available.

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The Pioneer Valley and Eungella already offer some of Queensland’s best natural experiences. With continued collaboration, smart planning and the right investment, our region can play a leading role in Queensland’s ecotourism future.

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