The first stage of a $25 million Great Keppel Island rejuvenation was officially opened this week.
The new Arrivals Plaza and Amenities Project includes new public facilities, shaded seating, accessible pathways, landscaping and directional signage.
The project is part of the Queensland Government’s Great Keppel Island Rejuvenation Fund, which is supporting infrastructure improvements on the island off the Capricorn Coast in central Queensland.
Other projects under the fund include a centralised wastewater treatment plant and new wayfinding signage, both of which have recently been completed.
The upgrades are designed to improve visitor facilities and support the island’s tourism industry.
The main resort on the island was purchased in 2006 for a reported $16.5 million, then shut down in 2008 during the Global Financial Crisis.
This left former resort leases and facilities in a prolonged state of neglect and they were forfeited to the Department of Natural Resources and Mines in 2023.
Coastal erosion from storms like Tropical Cyclone Alfred further damaged key foreshore areas at Putney and Fisherman’s Beaches.
Premier David Crisafulli said Queensland was boosting ecotourism for 2032 and beyond.
“Great Keppel Island is a natural treasure and we’re investing to help more visitors experience it while protecting what makes it special,” Mr Crisafulli said.
Member for Keppel Nigel Hutton said the new precinct would improve the experience for visitors arriving on the island.
“For many visitors, this is their first impression of Great Keppel Island, and these upgrades ensure the welcome matches the quality of the destination,” Mr Hutton said.
Acting local Mayor Glenda Mather said the arrivals plaza and other infrastructure improvements were important milestones for the island.
“The Arrivals Plaza creates a welcoming first impression for visitors and provides the facilities needed to support a high-quality tourism experience,” Cr Mather said.
“Alongside the recently completed wastewater treatment plant, and the installation of Wayfinding signage, the opening of the Arrivals Plaza represents an important step forward for Great Keppel Island, providing essential infrastructure while supporting sustainable tourism growth.”
