Time for department to act over island resort

APARLIAMENTARY inquiry into the economic and regulatory frameworks for Queensland’s island resorts delivered its report – which is being considered by the government – on March 17. The number one recommendation in the report is unequivocal.

It says the Department of Resources should take immediate action to cancel tourism leases where lessees have been determined by departmental audit within the last three years to be non-compliant with lease conditions, subject to the requirements of natural justice.

Hong Kong-based Benny Wu bought 17.3ha of Double Island, with its resort, for $5.68m 11 years ago and the island, tantalisingly close to Palm Cove, has languished.

One submission to the inquiry suggested the Department of Resources was reticent to ensure compliance with the terms of the leases.

Last August the department ordered Mr Wu to have day use facilities including the jetty, moorings, boardwalk and public amenities, up to scratch by March 31. The department told the Cairns Post it was awaiting a condition report from Mr Wu and it would consider the next appropriate course of action.

This report requires the lessee to demonstrate how they have met the conditions of their lease. The department has the power to issue 28 days’ notice, and then the matter goes to the Land Court to decide if a lease may be forfeited.

Mr Wu signalled his continuing interest in the Far North when he splashed out more than $5m for a palatial Whitfield property in 2020, but there is no evidence money has been spent rejuvenating the dilapidated island.

It is time for the Department of Resources to act.