The deserted resort island that was once home to Hollywood stars is set to be snatched from its billionaire foreign owner – and when you see the state of affairs, you won’t be surprised!
Double Island in far north Queensland has fallen into disrepair
Hollywood actors used to be guests on the holiday island
QLD government wants to confiscate the island from the Hong Kong owner
The Queensland government has launched a foreclosure lawsuit against the Hong Kong owner of a once luxurious island resort that is now derelict and abandoned.
Double Island, about 30 minutes north of Cairns in far north Queensland, was bought by billionaire Benny Wu in 2012 for $5.68 million.
A resort he built there once hosted stars like Jennifer Aniston and Keanu Reeves, but fell into disrepair in the years that followed.
Double Island, about 30 minutes north of Cairns in far north Queensland
The QLD government has now requested that Fortune Island Holding Company (pictured Double Island) initiate confiscation proceedings.
Double Island tenant Benny Wu failed to meet the March 31 deadline for daycare facilities to open to the public and the resort to be operational
The state government gave Mr. Wu an ultimatum to renovate the resort, giving him a deadline of March 31.
That is now a done deal, and last Monday the Department of Resources told Fortune Island Holding Company that it would ask the district court to rule on whether to forfeit the island’s lease.
“Leaseholders of government land must meet the terms of their leases,” said Queensland Resources Minister Scott Stewart.
“If tenants fail to meet their obligations, we will not hesitate to take action to protect these islands and the interests of all Queenslanders.”
Pictures from the island show abandoned furniture, buildings, and facilities like a pool
Double Island is about 30 minutes north of Cairns in far north Queensland, about 1 mile from the coast
“I anticipated that action would be taken against the Double Island tenant, so I applaud this important step in beginning the lease forfeiture process,” said Craig Crawford, member of Barron River.
“Double Island has been a jewel in Far North Queensland’s tourism crown but has been deserted for too long so this news is appreciated by the community.”
Pictures from the 17.8-hectare island show abandoned boats and furniture among the safari-style accommodations, with dirty cobblestones and paths overgrown with weeds.
Double Island was purchased by Mr. Wu for US$5.68 million in 2012 and leased until 2099
