There should be no more confusion for prospectors, campers and explorers trying to get to Palmerville Station following the installation of new signage on the Mulligan Highway. Photo: Cape York Weekly.
Cape York needs a more co-ordinated approach to tourism signage to maximise the experience of exploring one of the remotest parts of the country, according to the company that owns Palmerville Station.
The must-see destination for many Cape York visitors unveiled new directional signage on the Mulligan Highway earlier this month in a move Diversified Property Group founder and director Darren Pearson said was aimed at mitigating some of the confusion caused by satellite navigation.
“The new signage on the Mulligan Highway has always been part of our broader tourism strategy, aligned with the recent updates to the Drive North Queensland touring map,” he told Cape York Weekly.
“While we’ve seen a steady increase in visitors each dry season, the growing reliance on GPS navigation has highlighted the need for clearer on-ground direction.
“We’re pleased to report that Google Maps has now been updated to correctly show key routes to Palmerville Station, including the full length of Whites Creek Road, however, given the property has four separate entry points, some visitors – particularly those travelling from Cairns or Mareeba – were still being misdirected through Chillagoe and Wrotham Park to the southern access via the Burke Developmental Road.
“The new signage helps eliminate confusion, and ensures guests are guided to the main eastern entry via the Mulligan Highway, improving both safety and the overall visitor experience.”
The technological glitch was creating a journey of more than six hours for some tourists for a trip that should have taken half the amount of time.
Mr Pearson said he would like to see Cape York councils, chambers of commerce and fellow tourism operators unify their approach to signage to help showcase the region’s rich geographical and cultural resources.
“We believe improved signage and co-ordinated tourism infrastructure are essential as Cape York continues to grow as a destination of national significance,” he said.
“Cape York is one of the last true frontiers of Australia – vast, remote, and rich in untapped natural beauty and deep cultural heritage; as upgrades to the Peninsula Developmental Road progress, we’re seeing increased visitation and, with it, the need for better guidance to ensure visitors can access remote destinations safely and confidently.
“Importantly, the region is home to a wealth of culturally significant Aboriginal sites and artworks, many of which are of immense importance to Traditional Owners and Indigenous communities; from the rock art galleries near Laura to sacred landscapes across the Cape, these areas deserve recognition, protection and accessible signage that respectfully educates and guides visitors.”
The operators of Palmerville Station are hoping the new directional signage prevents a few navigational headaches for visitors. Photo: Cape York Weekly.
