Revival Complete For TNQ Islands

Voyages Dunk and Bedarra Islands have been fully revived in the wake of Severe Tropical Cyclone Larry that struck the Tropical North Queensland coast in March. Dunk will be the first island to re-open on July 1, followed by Bedarra on July 8.

According to Voyages Executive General Manager Operations – East Coast, Darren Cann, significant re-construction work has returned both islands to their former glory, with Dunk looking like a completely new resort.

“Cyclone Larry has allowed us to create a new look and feel for Dunk Island,” he said. “Anyone who has visited in the past will agree that the views from all around the resort are breathtaking and superbly complemented by the extensive landscaping work we’ve undertaken.”

The rainforests of Dunk and Bedarra are madly regenerating thanks to heavy rains which fell on the region after Larry struck: the same rains that created havoc with re-construction efforts and Voyages’ re-opening plans. Voyages has worked closely with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Parks to re-plant a host of native flora, in particular pioneering rainforest species that relish the sunlight streaming through a thinner canopy.

Extensive structural and water damage also led to the improvement of old, and introduction of new resort facilities. Tennis and squash courts have been replaced, while the golf course has been reduced to 9 holes with longer, more challenging holes that will put it on par with courses found throughout the region.

There are also rumours that a high profile course designer will visit Dunk later in the year to work on the course and improve its standard further.

BB’s on the Beach has been replaced by the Jetty Café, an upmarket bar-cum-café serving lunches daily and featuring fresh seafood cuisine. An outdoor BBQ and Wok Station will be established poolside, offering seasonal a la carte dinners with a contemporary fusion of eastern and western culinary fare.

Beachcomber Restaurant has been overhauled with new fittings, décor and bar. EJ’s on the Deck is no more thanks to an extension to the Plantation Bar and Lounge. The Cascade Pool Bar and Terrace restaurant will continue to offer alternative venues for guests to relax and dine during their stay.

According to Darren, one of the most impressive undertakings for Dunk has been the complete remodelling of the conference centre, especially a new sounds systems and installation of state-of-the-art technology.

While all of this activity has been going at Dunk, construction workers and landscape gardeners have been furiously completing work to restore the Bedarra Island to its rightful spot as one of Australia’s most luxurious island hideaways.

“There wasn’t much to improve with Bedarra, but we’ve made the most of this chance to slightly upgrade facilities and amenities,” said Darren. “Otherwise, Bedarra will essentially remain the same incredible luxury resort it was before Larry struck.”