Green Mountain to go on show under eco-tourism plan
Posted by editor (editor) on Nov 26 2009
2009 >>

Green Mountain in Lamington National Park will be put on show to the world as one of Queensland’s best environmental assets under a new eco-tourism plan to boost visitor numbers in our State’s protected areas.

Minister for Tourism and Member for Southport Peter Lawlor welcomed today’s announcement that the Bligh Government would be seeking expressions of interest from private investors to establish low impact holiday accommodation at Green Mountain.

“This will open Lamington National Park to more visitors while ensuring that the environmental impact is kept to an absolute minimum,” Mr Lawlor said.

 “Eco-tourism is becoming more and more popular around the world and it’s a market our region simply can’t afford to miss out on.

“Introducing more people into our national parks will not only be a major boost for tourism, it will help to build awareness about conservation and encourage more people to appreciate and respect our incredible natural environment.”

Mr Lawlor said under the plan eco-accommodation, such as semi-permanent safari tents, would be established with tight environmental controls to ensure minimal environmental impact.

“Thousands of campers rough it in our parks every month and of course they will continue to do so,” he said

“These new facilities will make it possible for people who would never have dreamed of visiting Lamington National Park to come and enjoy the spectacular natural environment we have to offer.”

Mr Lawlor said the facilities would be leased to private operators and the yearly income would be invested back into Lamington National Park for continual improvement and conservation.

“Other states have been rolling out low impact accommodation in or adjacent to their most popular parks for years.

“It’s time to follow that example and keep our region on the international eco-tourism map.”

Last changed: [PUBLISHED_DATE] at 12:04 PM