Mick Fanning’s wave pool now has government backing. The Queensland State Government announced it would grant $4 million ($2.85 Million USD) to Palm Valley, a Gold Coast surf and golf resort which counts Fanning as a project partner and ambassador.
Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell announced the funding on Wednesday, with Fanning on hand to accept. The cash was granted through the Queensland Government’s Tourism Icons Investment Fund, which is designed to support the development of tourism-related infrastructure, attractions and experiences.
Palm Valley was first unveiled in 2024. Located around four miles from Main Beach at Parkwood International golf club, the facility aims to combine an Endless Surf-powered wave with a championship golf course and luxury hospitality resort.
“We will create a unique new destination that integrates surf, golf and hospitality – minutes from the Gold Coast CBD,” said Palm valley Founder and Managing Director Luke Altschwager at the time of the announcement. “This will position it as a major tourism attraction and the premier training venue for elite surfers. As a high performance training resort, it will offer specialized programs designed for Australian athletes targeting Brisbane 2032, as well as accommodate top-tier international talent. The Surf Lagoon will become a premier venue for professional events – with the potential to host the 2033 Olympic Para surfing, and the surf competition proper, if weather dictates,”
Palm Valley is slated to open in 2027.
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