The Cairns Post,16 December 2019.
Mayfair 101’s multimillion-dollar vision of returning Dunk Island as the jewel in Cassowary Coast’s crown is one step closer with the release of plans for a beachside bar and a revival of watersports at the island’s spit.
Artist’s impressions reveal low-set buildings on the foreshore decked out with sun lounges and a shaded daybed area positioned to the south of the existing public jetty.
Mayfair 101 subsidiary Mayfair Iconic Properties announced development plans to the Cairns Post yesterday ahead of a construction kick-off subject to Cassowary Coast Regional Council approval.
It’s understood the facilities will be geared towards day-trippers as cyclone-damaged accommodation in the main resort remains uninhabitable.
Mayfair Iconic Properties Chief Executive Officer Stuart Duplock said an improved ferry service would provide better connectivity between the island and Mission Beach.
“The new spit bar will provide people the opportunity to enjoy a meal and drink accompanied by one of the best views in the world over the iconic Dunk Island spit,” he said.
“Our team is committed to activating Dunk Island for locals and tourists as part of our broader plans to breathe life back into the Mission Beach economy.”
Mission Beach-based Economist Pete Faulkner said new plans for the spit would be well received by locals.
“The spit was always an integral part (of the island), particularly for the locals who would go over on the weekend,” he said. “And when there was a beachside bar there back in the day it was always very popular.”
Mr Faulkner said work crews had been seen on the island recently but it was not clear what was being done.
Developers said upgrades to camping, barbecue and toilet facilities, sand replenishment and revegetation were also planned for the Spit.
Well-known Port Douglas-based architectural firm Hunt Design is expected to take the lead on the project and will liaise with environmental consultants and council to ensure the Spit development is “in keeping with the natural beauty of the region”.
“We expect that the upgrades will be complete and the Spit be fully operational in time for the beginning of the tourist season in June 2020,” Mr Duplock said.