Island troubles a great shame

THEY have previously been jewels in the sparkling blue water of our piece of the Pacific Ocean, favoured by celebrity clientele and lusted over by the average punter.

But island resort ownership has become a tumultuous game in the Far North with some managing to flourish, while others have literally been left in rubble.

Chief among those riches to rags is Double Island.

In its heyday it hosted the likes of Jennifer Aniston, Brad Pitt and Keanu Reeves, but it now appears to have been completely forgotten by the State Government.

Chinese property tycoon Benny Wu purchased it in 2012 and immediately shut it down and it has steadily deteriorated.

It was a notable omission from the State Government’s recent list of islands benefiting from its Great Barrier Reef Island resorts rejuvenation program and Cairns Regional Council is yet to reschedule an inspection after a visit late last year was cancelled due to weather.

It is a sad state for what was once a stunning drawcard for the region.

Fitzroy Island managing director Doug Gamble has begged for more time from council to carry out a major renovation on the resort which is in desperate need of a facelift.

It follows his failed bid to sell the property in late 2016 for $30 million.

Hinchinbrook Island’s resort suffered all manner of deterioration and damage, while the future of Dunk Island is still unconfirmed eight years after Cyclone Yasi destroyed it.

There are some positive stories, with the likes of Lizard, Green and Orpheus Island still tourist favourites.

But it’s a sad fall from grace for those struggling.