- First stage of Great Keppel Island rejuvenation officially opened.
- New arrivals plaza to welcome visitors and boost tourism opportunities.
- Rejuvenation part of Destination 2045 plan to boost tourism ahead of 2032 Games.
- The Crisafulli Government is strengthening Queensland’s reputation as the Home of the Holiday and delivering better services through a stronger economy.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a fresh start for Great Keppel Island, with the Arrivals Plaza and Amenities Project now complete and officially opened.
Delivered through the Crisafulli Government’s $25 million Great Keppel Island Rejuvenation Fund, the new gateway precinct features public amenities, shaded seating, accessible pathways, landscaping and wayfinding signage to improve the visitor experience.
The project forms part of the Crisafulli Government’s Destination 2045 plan to unlock Queensland’s natural assets through sustainable ecotourism, while strengthening the State’s reputation as the Home of the Holiday.
After the former Labor Government approved just three ecotourism projects in a decade, the Crisafulli Government is backing up to 45 projects by 2045 to grow regional tourism, support local jobs and showcase Queensland’s world-class natural attractions.
Delivering new and rejuvenated ecotourism is another legacy for 2032 and beyond, to take full advantage of Queensland being on the world stage.
Great Keppel Island remains one of Queensland’s premier ecotourism destinations, with the Rejuvenation Fund also delivering new wayfinding signage and a centralised wastewater treatment plant to support the island’s long-term future.
Premier David Crisafulli said Queensland was boosting ecotourism for 2032 and beyond, to deliver more jobs and better services through a stronger economy.
“Great Keppel Island is a natural treasure and we’re investing to help more visitors experience it while protecting what makes it special,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Our islands are the jewels in the crown of Queensland tourism, and with these upgrades they’ll shine as they should.
“We’re investing to harness the green and gold runway and tourism boon all of Queensland can benefit from.”
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said Queensland was growing ecotourism through Destination 2045.
“Under Labor, just three ecotourism projects were approved in ten years, but we’re changing that by backing the experiences and infrastructure that will help showcase Queensland’s natural assets to the world,” Minister Powell said.
“Projects like this are helping unlock Great Keppel Island’s potential as a world-class ecotourism destination while supporting local jobs and businesses.”
Member for Keppel Nigel Hutton said the new arrivals precinct would make a real difference for visitors and local operators.
“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.
“This investment is supporting local tourism businesses, improving the visitor experience and building momentum for the island’s future.”
Acting Mayor Councillor Glenda Mather said the projects delivered under the Great Keppel Island Rejuvenation Fund were significant milestones for the island, its community and tourism industry.
“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.
“Council is proud to work with the Queensland Government, the Woppaburra people, industry and the community to help realise the island’s long-term potential.”
