Queensland

Location: Hinchinbrook Island and Passage, Cardwell

Threat:     Development

Hinchinbrook Island is the largest island national park in Australia, and is situated within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Both the Island and the Passage are of World Heritage value, recognised as major dugong feeding grounds and for their extraordinary natural beauty which draws tourists from around the world.

The area is under intense development pressure with intrusive ‘Gold Coast’ tourist infrastructure development and a marina being considered, with sea plane and jet sea vehicle facilities. These vehicles would have an extremely detrimental effect on marine life, and the overall developments, if they proceed, would be destructive of the distinctive character of this natural wonderland.