Significant interest in major tourism proposal

The Newman Government says a proposal for the $600 million Great Keppel Island tourism resort has received a significant response from the public

Submissions on the Great Keppel Island Resort environmental impact statement (EIS) closed on 7 September after a six week consultation period that commenced in July.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney said the proposal for a low-rise, eco-tourism resort had generated substantial interest.

“More than 10,000 people expressed their views on the proposed project during the public consultation period,” Mr Seeney said.

“At the close of consultation, 6,319 people had sent letters supporting the proponent’s revitalisation plan for the island while 4,095 had signed a petition opposing the project.

“On top of that, 179 detailed submissions were made in writing where submitters stated their views.

“This response is an indication that the proposed project is recognised as being of great significance to Great Keppel.”

The Coordinator-General will now conduct a thorough review of the feedback and respond to issues raised in the submissions.

Mr Seeney said the proposal for an environmentally friendly development would ensure about 40 per cent of the island, or 575 hectares, would be an environmental protection area to be rehabilitated and protected.

“Should plans for the eco-tourism resort proceed; the local economy would receive a big boost with the project expected to create more than 400 building jobs annualised over the 12 year construction period and the possibility of more than 1,000 direct and indirect jobs for the operational resort,” he said.

Stage one of the development proposes the establishment of a new 250-suite hotel at Fisherman’s Beach with accompanying restaurants and conference facilities.

The resort would also have a 250-berth marina at Putney Beach including a yacht club and dry dock storage, approximately 150 Marine Precinct Apartments, a Ferry terminal and staff accommodation.

The EIS process has been administered under a parallel agreement between the State and Commonwealth Governments.

[ENDS] 19 September 2012

Media Contact: Kate Haddan – 0418 373 516