A Blight on the Great Barrier Reef
The once-thriving Double Island resort, located 30 minutes north of Cairns, has fallen into disrepair. Rotting roofs, a pool filled with green sludge, and termite-infested buildings paint a picture of neglect. This is not an isolated case, as several island resorts along the Queensland coast have suffered a similar fate.
The derelict state of Double Island has become a popular destination for guided kayaking tours led by Brad Madgwick. The island's decay has been incorporated into his regular marine-life spotting adventures, offering a glimpse into the resort's decline.
The Queensland Government is taking action against the owner, Hong Kong billionaire Benny Wu, accusing his company, Fortune Island Holding's, of non-compliance. They will attempt to strip Wu of the island's lease in the Land Court in Cairns within weeks.
Local opinions vary on what should happen to the island. Some, like businessman Tony Richards, would like to see a new resort built. Others, like Madgwick, believe the island should be turned into a national park.
Across the Great Barrier Reef, several other island resorts have been abandoned, including Brampton Island Resort, Lindeman Island, and Great Keppel Island. These closures have impacted the region's tourism industry and reputation.
Professor Daniel Gschwind from Griffith University's Institute for Tourism emphasizes the importance of island resorts in attracting tourism dollars. However, he acknowledges the challenges faced by owners, including high maintenance costs, access difficulties, and rising insurance premiums.
A parliamentary inquiry held by the Queensland Transport and Resources Committee has made recommendations to address the issue, including cancelling leases of developers who neglect their properties.
The future of these derelict island resorts remains uncertain. Whether they will be redeveloped, turned into national parks, or left to further decay is a question that remains unanswered.