New tourist drawcards to benefit Port Douglas
OPENING SOON
TWO exciting new drawcards for the greater Cairns region are soon to be open to the public.
The new Cairns aquarium and the Smithfield cinema complex are nearing their final stages of construction and are both set to be huge benefits for Port Douglas.
“It will be the only aquarium in the world to exclusively showcase the biodiversity of tropical north Queensland,” General Manager Julie Cullen said.
The new CBD attraction is set to compliment the regions other draws in the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. For many reasons such as short stays, fears, sea-sickness or being unable to swim, many visitors don’t visit the world heritage listed wonders. This is particularly true for visitors off cruise ships who typically don’t have long enough to see the reef or rainforest. The aquarium will be the perfect way for these tourists to experience all the area has to offer including the fish, animals, plants and habitats.
“They can see it all at the aquarium,” Cullen said.
Executive Officer at Tourism Port Douglas & Daintree, Tara Bennett, said the aquarium will be a welcome addition to the region as the tourism industry is trying to boost repeat visits and extended stays. Having more attractions will help do that.
“Its good to give people access to the reef on land which may entice visitors to get out and actually visit the reef,” she said.
Visitors to Port Douglas can add this to their holiday list with the aquarium relevant for the Port Douglas market.
The project is privately funded by Daniel Leipnik and Andrew Preston and is anticipated to open in September.
The Smithfield cinema complex is also on its way, giving Port Douglas locals a much closer alternative to catch the newest movies all year round.
A trip to the Smithfield cinema will cut 20 minutes off a trip to the CBD cinemas, and with the new array of alfresco dining options the complex will be a perfect day out for Port Douglas families.
Senior Development Manager Belinda Hufton said the development will deliver a new entertainment experience for the community.
“Going to the movies and dining out in the Cairns region is set to change,” she said.
The $29 million cinema and outdoor dining precinct is in the final stages with Property group Dexus announcing the opening date in the coming weeks.
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