The Queensland Government has approved the $35 million Coochin Creek Tourist Park and events venue on the Sunshine Coast. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie called in the project after the Sunshine Coast Council and state agencies rejected it. They had raised concerns about impacts on nearby wetlands. Following a comprehensive assessment, the state decided the project could proceed, balancing economic and environmental goals.
Project Overview and Economic Impact
Developer Comiskey Group will build the 150-hectare park along Roys Road, near Pumicestone Passage. The project includes 75 cabins and 75 campsites, plus a major events precinct called Coochin Fields. Once operational, officials expect it to draw 180,000 additional overnight visits annually. Economically, the park should generate $60 million in local expenditure each year. Furthermore, it will create 550 full-time equivalent jobs both on and off-site.
A Five-Year Journey to Approval
Comiskey Group director David Comiskey expressed relief at the decision. The approval concludes a five-year planning process. The company purchased the land in 2021 and will apply experience from its nearby Sandstone Point Holiday Resort. Comiskey emphasized the design will thoughtfully suit its natural setting, offering a family-friendly eco-tourism experience.
Government Rationale and Environmental Safeguards
The approval aligns with the state’s Destination 2045 tourism strategy and recent planning reforms. These reforms aim to encourage low-impact ecotourism. Minister Bleijie stated the decision reflects a commitment to “responsible planning.” He also confirmed the approval carries strong environmental conditions to protect wetlands and ensure safety. The government asserts it considered expert advice and community input thoroughly.
Industry and Community Reception
The Sunshine Coast business community welcomed the news. Sunshine Coast Business Council Chair Sandy Zubrinich praised Comiskey Group’s proven track record. Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel called it a “huge win,” citing boosted accommodation and a stronger eco-tourism reputation. For more on Queensland’s tourism strategy, see Destination 2045.
Comiskey Group’s Broader Development Footprint
This approval expands Comiskey Group’s active portfolio in South-East Queensland. Recently, the company announced a $250 million expansion of Sandstone Point Resort. It also plans a $180 million town centre precinct in North Lakes and completed a $5 million renovation of the Imperial Hotel in Eumundi. Additionally, the group acquired the Eumundi Brewery and consolidated land around its Eatons Hill Hotel, demonstrating its growing influence in regional tourism.
Conclusion: A Landmark for Eco-Tourism Development
The Coochin Creek Tourist Park approval marks a significant moment for the Sunshine Coast. It shows the state’s willingness to prioritize broader economic goals under strict conditions. While environmental monitoring remains crucial, the project promises substantial tourism and employment benefits. As construction begins, it will test the balance between development and conservation in Queensland’s prized coastal regions.
