Landmark Bunya Mountains eco-tourism opportunity opens

 

Western Downs Regional Council is seeking experienced proponents capable of delivering a high-end, short-term accommodation experience that showcases the destination's unique environmental, cultural, and natural values.

 

The opportunity centres on approximately 2.37 hectares on Lot 5 RP46591 at Russell Park and seeks innovative, market-led concepts that complement the Bunya Mountains' existing tourism offering while creating new opportunities for overnight visitation, sustainable tourism growth, and regional investment.

 

Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson for Business Strategy and Economic Development Councillor Megan James said Council encouraged proposals for high-end, short-term, nature-based accommodation concepts that demonstrate environmental stewardship and respect for the cultural significance of the area.

 

"This Expression of Interest process represents a unique opportunity to help shape the future of one of Queensland's most iconic destinations," Cr James said.

 

"The Bunya Mountains is one of Queensland's most remarkable tourism destinations, offering a rare combination of ancient rainforest, iconic bunya pine forests, rich Aboriginal cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes.

 

"We're seeking an accommodation partner that shares our commitment to environmental stewardship and cultural respect while delivering an exceptional visitor experience that complements the unique character of the Bunya Mountains."

 

The Bunya Mountains attract more than 200,000 visitors each year and are increasingly recognised for nature-based, wellness and experiential tourism experiences.

 

Cr James said Council had identified a gap in the market for high-end, short-term accommodation, creating a significant opportunity to diversify the destination's visitor offering and attract high-value travellers.

 

"There is growing demand for immersive nature-based travel, wellness experiences and authentic cultural tourism, and the Bunya Mountains is ideally positioned to meet that demand," she said.

 

"This is an opportunity to create a benchmark eco-tourism development that balances commercial success with the long-term protection and appreciation of one of Australia's most significant natural and cultural landscapes."

 

The opportunity aligns with Queensland's Destination 2045 framework, the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games legacy opportunities, and Council's commitment to growing a diverse and thriving visitor economy.

 

Interested proponents are encouraged to download the Investment Prospectus here to learn more about the opportunity.

 

Proponents can then review the full Expression of Interest documentation via Council’s tender portal here and attend a site familiarisation visit to gain a firsthand understanding of the development opportunity.

 

• Investment Prospectus released and EOI opens: Monday 31 August 2026.

• Site familiarisation visits: Monday 21 September 2026. Sessions available from 10.00am to 11.00am and 2.00pm to 3.00pm.

• EOI closes: Friday 6 November 2026 at 4.00pm.

• Evaluation process completed: Monday 23 November 2026.