Dunk Island – SOLD

Dunk Island, located on the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef has been sold.

Known as Coonanglebah, is traditionally shared between Bandjin, saltwater people whose sea country extends down to Hinchinbrook Island, and Djiru, mainland people from the coastal area around Mission Beach. One of only a few freehold islands on the entire Great Barrier Reef, it offers significant potential to develop Australia’s next tourism icon. Being one of the largest islands in the Whitsundays, Dunk is also Australia’s premier island location for international feature films like James Cameron’s Sanctum 3D, Age Of Consent and Storm Boy.

Mark Spillane from the Islands new owner Sydney based Upsense Media Capital said,

“Upsense Media Capital is delighted to be able to tackle the revitalisation of Dunk Island in the world heritage Barrier Reef location. Before any major announcement of future plans, it is our priority to continue the discussion with the local community, council, state government, regional and international tourism and other key stakeholders we have already initiated. We are sensitive to the hardships on the local community over the last ten or so years with the effects of cyclone damage, false starts, and now covid and lack of tourism. We want to ensure that when we do announce our plans, that they are well thought out, achievable and sustainable and will ensure significant benefit to the region, Queensland and Australia.”

With investments across entertainment, in addition to a new resort, we could well see these new owners using the island for film, tv productions, and music festivals.

The property attracted significant interest from a broad range of capital sources, both domestic and international, despite the uncertainty around the COVID-19 environment. This deal is a clear demonstration of the demand for Australian hotel and resort assets. Whilst currently experiencing strong domestic guest demand in regional locations, we expect a surge of international travellers to visit Australia when borders reopen, as Australia’s attractiveness as a safe and reputable place to visit has been significantly enhanced. It looks like exciting times ahead for Dunk Island and its beautiful part of the Whitsundays.

Story Michael Goldman

Footage from Dunk Island Experience and photos from Real Estate Agent.