Michael Warren

Journalist

Douglas Shire adventurers and nature lovers alike could potentially enjoy and set foot on the first section of the much-awaited Wangetti Trail from Palm Cove Jetty to the Ellis Beach foreshore, weather dependent, by July – September next year.

That exciting development comes after an earth turning ceremony on Transport and Main Roads land at Palm Cove just a short time ago signalled the start of construction on the southern section of the 94-kilometre Wangetti Trail, which, when finished, will span from Palm Cove to Port Douglas.

This remarkable project will traverse a World Heritage-listed area and three national parks, offering a unique and world-class visitor experience.

“Wangetti Trail is a highly complex project through a World Heritage area and three national parks with Traditional Owners, who rightly want to see their land preserved and protected,” Cairns MP Michael Healy noted.

“Getting started on this unique, world-class visitor experience is a great day for our community, but we need to get it right to maximise Wangetti Trail’s community benefits.

“With remarkable views, good Queensland jobs and business opportunities for Traditional owners, Wangetti Trail will add a new dimension to the Tropical North’s visitor economy.”

What makes this trail particularly special is that it has been co-designed in collaboration with the Traditional Owners, the Djabugay Nation, ensuring their vital input and respect for their land preservation and protection.

The trail's alignment has been carefully planned to minimize its impact on the natural surroundings, and measures like gully crossings, bridges, and rock armouring have been implemented to ensure the preservation of the delicate ecosystems.

A key highlight of the Wangetti Trail is its positive impact on the local community. The project is predicted to create over 150 good local jobs during both the construction and operational phases, providing valuable employment opportunities to the region.