Visitors to one of the Sunshine Coast’s premier visitor attractions will soon have added accommodation options – complete with crocodile companions.
Australia Zoo is set to get four new two-storey, two-bedroom eco-cabins overlooking a freshwater billabong inhabited by wildlife, including freshwater crocodiles.
The family-friendly eco-cabins will be fitted with premium fixtures including a plunge pool, heated floors and stone bathtubs.
The Crocodile Hunter Lodge currently has 16 cabins, with Stage 4 development works to start this month to add the four new cabins.
Australia Zoo wildlife conservationist Terri Irwin said the extra cabins would allow more people to experience the award-winning lodge.
“We’re thrilled to begin construction on the next set of cabins, creating an exceptional experience for guests in their cherished home away from home,” she said.
“The Crocodile Hunter Lodge offers a unique experience as guests are surrounded by beautiful wildlife and the natural environment, receiving plenty of inclusions in their stay such as unlimited entry to Australia Zoo, complimentary breakfast at our fine-dining venue Warrior Restaurant and Bar, exclusive access to the lodge’s infinity pool and more.
“It’s a harmonious blend of luxury and nature, made possible by the support of the Queensland Government.”
Caloundra MP Jason Hunt said the project was being part-funded by the $15 million first round of the Growing Future Tourism program.
“Australia Zoo and the Irwin family are world-renowned for their connection to wildlife and tourism in Queensland,” he said.
“Who wouldn’t want to stay in a luxury eco-cabin on a billabong with freshwater crocodiles?
“This investment will help attract more tourists to the Sunshine Coast so they can check out the zoo, our wonderful beaches and bush, and the quality restaurants and tourism experiences – that means more jobs for locals.”
Five projects will share in the $15 million funding round, leveraging $66.6 million in private investment and supporting an estimated 313 jobs during planning and construction, plus 669 ongoing operational jobs.
Collectively, these projects will attract more than 216,000 extra visitors per year, spending an additional $63 million.
The five projects are due to reach practical completion by June 2026.
“The Growing Future Tourism program is delivering new tourism opportunities in Queensland,” Tourism Minister Michael Healy said.
“Projects like this, in partnership with private enterprise, will help us reach our ambitious goal of doubling overnight visitor expenditure to more than $44 billion per year by 2032.”
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