The Honourable Anna Bligh
26/05/2008
Bligh congratulates world leading ecotourism tourism operator
Townsville: Hidden Valley Cabins, Australia's first 100% carbon neutral and solar powered resort, is a shining example of the Queensland tourism industry's environmental commitment Premier Anna Bligh said today.
The Premier, in Townsville for Community Cabinet, presented Ian and Bonnie McLennan, owners of the resort 1.5 hours north-west of Townsville, with a Tourism Queensland certificate of recognition for outstanding leadership in environmental sustainability.
"Much of Queensland's tourism industry centres on our wonderful natural assets and it is essential that we continue protect those areas that make a visit to our state so special," Ms Bligh said.
"Climate change has been identified as the number one long-term issue affecting Queensland's $8.4 billion tourism industry and it is fantastic to see a family-owned property like Hidden Valley Cabins taking the lead and really walking the talk," she said.
Ms Bligh said after reducing its carbon-
based emissions, the fully solar-powered property had purchased carbon credits to offset the rest of its operational activities.
It had also gained Advanced Ecotourism accreditation under Ecotourism Australia's rigorous ECO Certification program.
Ecotourism Australia works closely with Tourism Queensland in encouraging the state's nature-based tourism operators to become ECO Certified.
"Queensland has more than 250 ECO Certified tourism products, the largest of any state."
"This is proof of the commitment our tourism industry has in ensuring it grows in a sustainable way while protecting our natural assets."
Ms Bligh said tourists, particularly those from international markets such as Europe and the UK, were increasingly asking for tourism products' "green credentials" before booking a holiday.
"It's important for Queensland's tourism operators to look to the future and take Hidden Valley Cabins' lead by implementing environmen
tally sustainable practices wherever possible."
"Improving environmental sustainability is a win-win situation for operators - not only will they help preserve our environment, but they will be able to capitalise on a growing trend for ecotourism products."
Ms Bligh said Hidden Valley Cabins was proof of what initiative, ingenuity and a commitment to positive change could achieve.
Media contact: Premier's Office 3224 4500
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