Iconic Ginninderra Falls could be turned into a world-class ecotourism resort under new ownership

Most people have probably never given a thought to owning their own tourist attraction, but here’s a once-in-lifetime-opportunity right in Canberra’s backyard.

Our very own natural wonder, Ginninderra Falls, is being offered for public sale for the first time in 40 years.

Sometimes regarded as “Canberra’s Kakadu”, this iconic landmark is NSW’s largest, privately-held waterfall.

The unique geological feature, 41 metres high, marks the beginning of the equally spectacular Ginninderra Gorge, home to many birds of prey, including falcons and eagles.

The site carries national significance and has attracted domestic and international visitors for its stunning natural beauty and activities such as bushwalking, rock climbing and bird watching.

The 56-hectare property has been owned by the Hyles family for 40 years, and farmers John and Anna Hyles know the potential that Ginninderra delivers as an ecotourism destination.

“At its peak, we were welcoming 35,000 people annually to witness the spectacular falls. This is one of the most beautiful properties in Australia,” John Hyles says.

The falls were once the capital region’s most visited attraction after the Australian War Memorial but were closed to the public in 2004 due to liability issues.

The family ideally wants to see the iconic landscape reopened to the public with the backing of government.

“We have taken great lengths to preserve this land and hope to see its full potential realised by a new owner,” Hyles says.

“This is an exceptional opportunity on the doorstep of our nation’s capital.”

Ginninderra Falls is just 30 minutes from Canberra Airport, the perfect gateway to capitalise on the best of Australia’s natural attractions and harness the growth of leisure experiences and outdoor activities.

George Southwell of Ray White Rural Canberra and Yass says the sale is timely with the announcement of the NSW government’s 2035 Visitor Economy Strategy.

“Regional tourism is set to play a major role in achieving the state’s vision in growing tourism into a $91 billion powerhouse,” he says.

A future vision for Ginninderra Falls includes the potential development of a world-class ecotourism resort, complete with a wellness centre, walking trails to scenic waterfalls and opportunities for recreational pursuits such as kayaking, swimming, boating and fishing.

Southwell says a 2021 hotelier report identified the property as having the potential to become a capital region “experience” destination similar to the exclusive “Saffire Freycinet” luxury resort in Tasmania.

“Experience tourism is on the rise and Ginninderra Falls has captured the interest of local and international visitors alike. This is an Australian natural wonder waiting to be shown to the world,” he says.

“We’ve already had dozens of enquiries from as far away as the Middle East and Singapore as well as throughout Australia.”

EOI

"Ginninderra ... Parkwood Rd, Wallaroo NSW 2618

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Southwell says there has been a high level of interest from experienced hospitality and tourism operators as well as all levels of government.

The Hyles say they are ready to step back and see Ginninderra Falls realised for its potential as a world-class attraction.

“We are offering the property for sale with immense pride, knowing that its next chapter can be even more extraordinary,” John Hyles says.

Expressions of interest close 5pm, November 28.