Double Island will be returned to the Tropical North Queensland community and transformed into a world-class tourism and hospitality destination, with Morris Group announced today as the successful tenderer to take over the island’s lease.
Following a competitive Queensland Government expressions of interest process, the Australian, family-run business has unveiled a $40 million four-stage revitalisation plan to breathe new life into the neglected Cairns landmark.
The ambitious project will open the island back up to the public, headlined by the construction of a brand-new public beach bar, restaurant and overnight accommodation, followed by the creation of a luxury accommodation offering, Double Island Lodge.
Founded by Chris Morris, Morris Group has invested more than $500 million in North Queensland since 2011, having a profound impact on the regional economy and generating significant local employment. This local footprint includes driving the redevelopment of The Ville Resort-Casino in Townsville and building the neighbouring luxury hotel, Ardo, and most recently the renovation of Orpheus Island Lodge’s northern rooms, suites and villas, scheduled for reopening July 2026.
The group is also behind award-winning luxury regional tourism experiences such as Orpheus Island Lodge, Pelorus Private Island, Mt Mulligan Lodge, Morris Nautical’s fleet of superyachts, and Nautilus Aviation.
Mr Morris said the vision for Double Island was carefully devised with local North Queenslanders in mind.
“It was really important to us in coming up with the plan for the island that it was something locals could once again access and enjoy,” he said.“
Double Island is an iconic landmark of the Cairns northern beaches, and we wanted to make sure that whatever we came up with was something that the community could be really proud of, similar to what we’ve achieved at The Ville and Ardo in Townsville.
“That’s why our priority is to deliver the key amenities that facilitate public access first. We want the public beach bar and restaurant to be a relaxed and welcoming space where day visitors and locals can meet with friends, step right onto the sand and appreciate the beautiful surrounds.”
To ensure seamless regional connectivity, Morris Group will construct a new private jetty on the island, and work with local marine operators, alongside utilising its own fleet of vessels to transport guests.
Leveraging its existing tourism footprint, Morris Group also intends to construct an island helipad for direct transfers and short scenic flights via its Nautilus Aviation fleet. Additional high-end access will be provided by Morris Nautical’s fleet of three luxury superyachts based in Cairns.
The broader Morris Group vision will see the island reclaim its status as a premier domestic and international tourism drawcard with the launch of Double Island Lodge. Modelled after the group’s exclusive lodges at Orpheus Island and Mount Mulligan, the lodge will feature 24 luxury guest villas housed across six beachfront dwellings.
The lodge precinct will boast a private swimming pool, gym and day spa, as well as an exclusive sunset bar nestled between the island’s two hills and dedicated walking trails. At the heart of the offering will be a 100-seat boutique restaurant boasting ocean views towards Cairns, catering to in-house guests, weddings, and conferences.
“We see a lot of potential to create something really special on Double Island by borrowing inspiration from what we’ve already done successfully elsewhere in the region,” Mr Morris said.
“The addition of Double Island Lodge will elevate the whole experience and provide a level of luxury accommodation that doesn’t currently exist in the area, while our boutique restaurant and event spaces will be the final piece in the puzzle to create another iconic Queensland tourism experience.
”Site clearing and construction for the project is due to commence in 2026, pending final development approvals.