Adventure Tourism Growing Fast Worldwide…

Tourism Queensland’s (TQ) Winter News says:

“Tourists are seeking new and enriching experiences from their holiday and consequently destinations are being chosen not only for their scenery and tourist services but also for the natural adventure component they provide.”

Anyone visiting the Whitsundays and Airlie Beach will have noted the huge international backpacker dive market. TQ now has a new Adventure Tourism Strategy that gives the dive market special attention and generally aims to build awareness of the range of Qld’s adventure activities.

They also aim to foster sustainable development, particularly in the Tropical North, Townsville, Fraser Coast and the Gold Coast, where clusters of adventure tourism activities have emerged.

Forest Flying – The Ultimate Rainforest Experience

What an invitation! This activity on a property in Finch-Hatton Gorge, within the Eungella National Park, really caught my eye.

HOW do you fly through the forest?

Using a Flying Fox – a personal harness/pulley that glides along an overhead cable and pulley system up to 30 metres above ground – so you actually travel through the rainforest canopy at treetop level for an educational, AND interesting, up close view of this pristine rainforest.

The Tour, $45 per person, is a 1 to 2 hour guided session that includes:

• Introduction to Forest Flying (essential safety points and practice cable)
• guided forest walk with informative talk on rainforest plants and bush tucker
• a ride on the flying fox through the rainforest canopy.

Forest Flying is owned and operated by Dave and Donna Lowe—residents of Finch Hatton Gorge since 1989. Their property covers over 72 acres bordered on two sides by Eungella National Park, where you can find the longest continuous stretch of rainforest in Queensland.

Dave and Donna operate their own permaculture farm; growing mangoes, lychees, bananas, and other tropical fruits, and maintaining livestock. They live a sustainable lifestyle in harmony with nature—generating their own energy from hydro and solar, and living in an energy efficient, earth-sheltered home of their own design.

They have been members of the W.W.O.O.F (Willing Workers on Organic Farms) organization since 1995. During this time we have been hosts to many “WWOOFers” from all over the world and met some very interesting people – many who have made important contributions to the establishment of Forest Flying.

The eco-tourism venture has grown from the couple’s long-term commitment to maintaining the environment. They aim to share their love and knowledge of the area providing opportunities to experience the beauty of the gorge without harming the fragile habitat.

For more info or to book (essential as places are limited)

Email info@forestflying.com or phone on (07) 4958 3359.