Lindeman Island resort project progresses

The $600 million Lindeman Island resort redevelopment has reached another milestone in its environmental assessment.

The independent Coordinator-General has released Terms of Reference for the proposed development’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham said the next step was for the proponent to prepare an extensive draft EIS.

“The Lindeman Island resort project presents an exciting opportunity for jobs, growth and economic development in North Queensland,” Dr Lynham said.

“The proposed development could create more than 800 construction jobs a year over a four-year construction period.

“When the resort is in full swing, it could also maintain 300 ongoing operational jobs.”

The proponent, White Horse Australia Lindeman Pty Ltd, is seeking to redevelop and expand the existing resort on the island, including five and six-star resort precincts and a 50-berth marina.

The existing Club Med resort was closed in January 2012 after suffering damage from Tropical Cyclone Yasi. White Horse purchased the resort lease the following April.

Their proposal includes:

• about 335 suites and villas across five resort precincts, including a six-star spa resort and a five-star eco resort
• a central village, including shops, restaurants, bars, a spa, a services infrastructure precinct, a nine- hole golf course and staff accommodation
• a 50 berth safe harbour/marina which will provide for guest transfers
• an upgrade of the existing private airstrip to provide for all weather-access and to allow small jet landings
• environmental measures to enhance the local ecosystem, such as a coral re-planting program.

Dr Lynham said the proponent’s draft EIS would be released for full public consultation.

“Lindeman Island is within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area which in itself supports 60,000 jobs and injects $6 billion into Queensland’s economy, so it is important all aspects of the project are considered,” he said.

“The Palaszczuk Government supports job-generating projects that balance economic, environmental and social impacts.”

For more information on the project visit statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/Lindeman

[ENDS]             24 August, 2015

Media contact:  Jan Martin     0439 341 314