Dept of the Environ, Tourism, Science and Innov

P264106

Thursday 28 May 2026 (E. Australia Standard Time)

Monday 31 August 2026 03:00 PM (E. Australia Standard Time) CLOSED

Monday 24 August 2026 03:00 PM (E. Australia Standard Time)

Sunday 29 November 2026 (E. Australia Standard Time)

Dept of the Environ, Tourism, Science and Innov

400 George St
Brisbane City, Queensland 4000
Australia

https://www.environment.desi.qld.gov.au/

Our department champions Queensland's environmental sustainability and innovation-driven growth. We protect and manage our natural resources, including the Great Barrier Reef, while fostering biodiversity and heritage conservation. As pioneers in scientific strategy, we spearhead environmental stewardship and support Queensland's science sector. Driving economic growth, we cultivate an innovation ecosystem, promoting entrepreneurship and investment. Collaborating across sectors, we nurture innovation precincts for sustained development

Holly Urquhart

Senior Project Officer

0458099140

0458099140

None Provided

holly.urquhart@detsi.qld.gov.au

The Queensland Government is inviting Expressions of Interest for the revitalisation of the Broken River Ecotourism Precinct, within stunning Eungella National Park. This is a rare chance to establish a unique ecotourism experience in one of North Queensland’s most pristine natural environments, with potential to be named as one of the Queensland Government’s prestigious 45 by 45 projects.

The Broken River Ecotourism Precinct has untapped potential – building on established infrastructure, the site is perfect for ideas ranging from small-scale, low-impact accommodation, nature-based adventure trails and conservation-focused activities.

Broken River boasts ancient sub-tropical cloud rainforests, stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and is one of the most reliable spots in Australia to observe the elusive platypus. Situated in the mountainous highlands approximately 80 minutes’ drive west of Mackay, Broken River is easily accessible via Mackay Airport. An emerging tourism destination with immense potential, this area is poised to become a key player in Queensland’s growing tourism profile.

We are looking for submissions that build on the site’s unique strengths, like platypus viewing, rainforest settings and nature-based recreation, to deliver experiences that are accessible, well-managed and will welcome a diverse range of visitors.

The Broken River Ecotourism Precinct presents an opportunity to revitalise and enhance the current offering and elevate Eungella National Park and surrounds as a leading ecotourism destination. The site currently features:

• two day-use areas equipped with amenities such as a kiosk, information centre, barbeques, toilets, picnic spaces, and wheelchair-accessible pathways

• two camping areas with toilet facilities and fire pits for visitor use on cold nights in the highlands

• platypus viewing platforms designed to provide optimal opportunities for observing these unique creatures in their natural habitat, including wheelchair-accessible boardwalks and platforms

• a variety of walking trails, including connections to the renowned Mackay Highlands Great Walk and linkages to other visitor attractions.

The Queensland Government is inviting all ideas to transform the Broken River Ecotourism Precinct into a leading ecotourism hub - from redevelopment of the entire site to a refresh of existing infrastructure and accommodation offerings, or a more focused approach such as using the site as a base for guided tours. The EOI timeframes includes a long lead time to allow potential proponents to consider the opportunity, attend a site visit and prepare high-quality submissions.

Submissions close 3:00pm AEST Monday 31 August 2026.

Be part of a story that elevates this remarkable destination, delivers real benefits to local communities, and sets a new benchmark for responsible tourism in Queensland.

• Queensland
  1: Mackay

All Regions of Service locations are within Australia.

Please note: The following attachment has been recently added.

1. Added: Eungella_NP_Camping_Permit_Analysis_Addendum.xlsx

Please consider this attachment when responding.

Please note: The following attachment has been recently added after a question about the number of commercial returns for Eungella National Park at the recent site visit.

1. Added: Commercial tour returns_Eungella NP_VendorPanel.xlsx

Attached is a spreadsheet extracted from the Parks and Forests Permit Hub of Commercial Activity Permit (CAP) returns for Eungella NP from 2022-2026.

All tour operator identifying information has been removed and replaced with “Full day – tour 1”; “Full day – tour 2”; etc.


Please consider this attachment when responding.

Please note: The following addendum has been recently added.

1. Added: (Addendum) Clarification No. 1.pdf

Please consider this addendum when responding.

Please note: The following attachment has been recently added.

1. Added: Site visit information.pdf

This is a supplementary document to Clarification No. 1. Please consider this attachment when responding.

Please note: The following addendum has been recently added.

1. Added: (Addendum) Clarification No. 2.pdf

Please consider this addendum when responding.