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<\/p>\nA Queensland developer is getting more than $2 million in taxpayer funds to help build a zip-line over the Brisbane River that could be up and running before October next year.<\/p>\n
The wheelchair-accessible flying fox will run from the Kangaroo Point cliffs to the Botanic Gardens in the Brisbane CBD, spanning about 400 metres.<\/p>\n
The project still needs sign-off from Brisbane City Council, but developer John Sharpe said he wanted it operational before the Rugby World Cup in October 2027.<\/p>\n
He believes it can be built within three months once it is given the relevant approvals.<\/p>\n
“This project has been a long time in the making. We have been chatting about this since the early 2000s,” Mr Sharpe said.<\/p>\n
“We want Brisbane to be known as the most accessible adventure location in the world.”<\/p>\n
Mr Sharpe said he planned to keep the cost of crossing the zip line under $100 with “specials” for locals.<\/p>\n
It could reach speeds of about 70 to 75kph.<\/p>\n
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The zip-line would be wheelchair-accessible. (Supplied)<\/p>\n
The zip-line will stand about 40 metres above the water on the Kangaroo Point side, and about 30 metres above the river at its centre.<\/p>\n
Mr Sharpe said the length of the flying fox was expected be just over 400 metres, but that was dependent on approvals for the take-off and landing towers.<\/p>\n
“We’ve got a few challenges. We took it to Council in October or September last year,” he said.<\/p>\n
“We’re still working through all the bits and pieces we need to make sure it conforms and we can get a [development application] and get it off the ground.<\/p>\n
“But let me say, without this investment from the Queensland state government, this project wouldn’t go ahead.”<\/p>\n
State government backs project<\/p>\n
The state government has backed the project with $2.1 million in funding.<\/p>\n
The funding, which comes from an $80 million tourism fund set up by the government, will also go towards other projects Mr Sharpe is developing around the river.<\/p>\n
These include an accessible high-line picnic experience at Kangaroo Point and two custom wheelchair-accessible boats.<\/p>\n
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said every dollar invested by the state had to be matched by the proponent.<\/p>\n
“I think it [the zip-line] is a brilliant addition that will really showcase Brisbane and Queensland to the world,” Mr Powell said.<\/p>\n
“I know someone like [John Sharpe] who has got the runs on the board will be able to work with myself and with Brisbane City Council to land a project of this nature.”<\/p>\n
There were previously plans in Brisbane to build a zip-line from Mt Coot-tha.<\/p>\n