The Crisafulli Government is delivering a major boost to tourism in Far North Queensland, committing more than $677,000 to upgrade visitor experiences and create a new Queensland “Big Icon” attraction.
The funding, delivered through the $80 million Tourism Icon Investment Fund, will support improvements to the popular Barron River rafting precinct, including the construction of “The Big Paddles”, set to become Queensland’s newest large-scale tourism landmark.
The investment forms part of the Government’s broader Destination 2045 strategy, aimed at strengthening Queensland’s tourism industry and supporting long-term regional growth.
The $677,000 commitment to Barron River Rafting will fund a range of new infrastructure and visitor improvements, including:
- The creation of “The Big Paddles” tourism icon
- Upgraded visitor amenities and facilities
- A new café and alfresco spaces
- Improved equipment storage
- Additional community green spaces
- A flood-resilient Rafting Operations Centre at Lake Placid
The Barron River rafting experience already attracts more than 16,000 visitors annually and supports events hosting up to 500 people, making it one of Far North Queensland’s standout adventure tourism attractions.
According to Cairns Adventure Group Director Roderic Rees, the project will help transform Lake Placid into a destination for both visitors and locals.
The Barron River project is one of several initiatives funded under Round 1 of the Tourism Icon Investment Fund.
Other projects receiving support include:
- $1 million for The Outback Tourism EcoLink Project at the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame in Longreach
- $1.8 million for the Great Keppel Hideaway Renewal
- $2.1 million to boost eco-tourism opportunities along the Brisbane River
This announcement follows an earlier commitment of more than $7.6 million to support 30 regional tourism operators across Queensland.
Far North Queensland thrives on tourism, and the Crisafulli Government is backing the unforgettable experiences that draw more people to Queensland and strengthen local jobs and businesses.”
Further Round 1 Tourism Icon Investment Fund projects are expected to be announced later this financial year, with applications for the next funding round opening later in 2026.
For more information about the Tourism Icon Investment Fund, visit:
Queensland Tourism Icon Investment Fund
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