The Decaying Island Resorts of Queensland
Once vibrant hubs for holidaymakers, several island resorts along the Queensland coast have fallen into disrepair, becoming eerie reminders of their former glory.
Double Island, a picturesque island north of Cairns, was once a favorite destination for celebrities like Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston. Today, it stands as a monument to neglect, with a green-sludged pool, rotting roofs, and termite-infested buildings.
The island's decay has become a legal battleground, with the Queensland government seeking to strip the billionaire owner of the lease. Local businesses are divided on the island's future, with some hoping for a resort revival while others envision a return to its natural state as a national park.
Across the Great Barrier Reef, the story is similar. Cyclone damage and neglect have shuttered resorts on Brampton Island, Lindeman Island, South Molle Island, Hook Island, and Great Keppel Island. While some, like Dunk Island, have plans for revival, others remain in ruins.
Experts point to the high cost of maintenance, access challenges, and skyrocketing insurance as factors contributing to the decline. However, they also emphasize the islands' immense tourism potential and the need for responsible development.
The Queensland government is exploring ways to address the issue, with a parliamentary inquiry recommending lease cancellations for derelict resorts and raising concerns about foreign ownership and climate change impacts.
The fate of these abandoned island paradises remains uncertain. Whether they will be reborn as thriving resorts or embraced for their natural beauty, their current state serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between development and preservation.