Great Keppel Island draft master plan includes upgrades aimed at boosting tourism

Community feedback is being sought on the future of Great Keppel Island following a draft master plan having been unveiled by Acting Queensland Premier Steven Miles and Keppel MP Brittany Lauga in Central Queensland today.

The draft master plan includes proposals to improve access around the island off the Capricorn Coast, including new walking trails, boardwalks and wayfinding signs.

It outlines the key infrastructure needed to uplift visitor facilities and amenities, improve the island’s appearance, safety and sustainability, and boost tourism.

Upgrades to the sewerage treatment plant is in the pipeline, while potential locations for a jetty and/or barge ramp are also being explored.

The plan highlights opportunities for new eco resorts and precincts, a village centre, and cultural and nature-based activities to encourage longer stays.

The island’s revamp is set to generate jobs and tourism opportunities, igniting a new era of economic growth for the region.

QLD Acting Premier Steven Miles notes “Great Keppel Island is a hidden treasure with the potential to deliver huge economic benefits for Central Queensland.

“We are committed to its redevelopment, so this unique piece of nature within the Great Barrier Reef can be enhanced and appreciated for generations to come.

“This master plan will be our blueprint to breathe new life into the jewel of the Capricorn Coast and make this one of the biggest tourism drawcards in Australia.

“It outlines options for new tourism developments and priority infrastructure needed to restore the island to its former glory and attract domestic and international visitors.”

Lauga adds “this master plan will help build the certainty and confidence that the community, tourism operators and other businesses need to thrive.

“The recent return of the old resort leases to the Queensland Government opens new opportunities to redevelop GKI and we’ll be making the most of them.

“This project is set to bring private sector investment back to the region and unlock new economic opportunities.

“Community voices are vital in this process to ensure we preserve the island’s rich history, cultural values and keep the core characteristics that make it so special.

The draft Masterplan follows extensive consultation with the community and stakeholders, including the traditional owners, business operators, Livingstone Shire Council and the broader community project reference group.

Feedback received in the next six weeks will be used to shape the final master plan, due to be completed in late 2023.

The Queensland Government has committed $30 million towards common-user infrastructure on the island.

View the GKI draft master plan at dsd.qld.gov.au/statedevelopment/woppa-great-keppel-island-draft-master-plan