Wilson Island rejuvenation works well underway

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones has today announced clean-up works on the critically acclaimed Wilson Island are now complete under the government’s $25 million Great Barrier Reef Island Resorts Rejuvenation Program.

“We’re investing in our Great Barrier Reef islands because we know they have huge potential to grow the tourism industry in Central Queensland,” she said.

“Already the clean-up is complete and soon locals will see boots on the ground building new infrastructure on site.”

Wilson Island is a natural coral cay, located approximately 72 kilometres offshore from Gladstone in the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

Ms Jones said Wilson Island was one of 10 supported through the Palaszczuk Government’s Great Barrier Reef Island Resort Rejuvenation Program.

“In 2011, Wilson Island was rated as one of the 10 best islands on the Great Barrier Reef by Condé Nast Traveller. However, the resort has been closed since 2014,” she said.

“The rejuvenation works on Wilson Island include the removal of legacy waste, installing solar power with battery storage, installing an environmentally secure waste treatment system and installing luxury tents to provide a new eco-tourism experience on the island.”

Member for Gladstone Glenn Butcher said the project would provide a huge boost to the local tourism sector.

“Combined, our island rejuvenation program will create more  than 150 jobs for Queenslanders,” he said.

“By investing in ecotourism on Wilson Island, we’ll attract hundreds more tourists to Central Queensland which will help to support local tourism businesses throughout the region.

Vice President of Aldesta Hotels Australia Tony Barradale operates Wilson Island and said all legacy waste was successfully removed from Wilson Island without damage or impact to the environment.

“Our intent is to rejuvenate Wilson Island to its original standing as a unique getaway destination to experience close-up wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.”

Mr Barradale said the rejuvenation of Wilson Island was well underway and on-track for completion in Spring this year.

Member for Gladstone Glenn Butcher said the rejuvenation of Wilson Island complements popular Heron Island Resort, also owned and operated by Aldesta Hotels Australia and located nearby.

Mr Butcher said Wilson Island was an ideal location to experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

“Our breathtaking natural environment in Queensland inspires millions of visitors every year. Soon visitors will be able to experience the world-heritage Great Barrier Reef from the rejuvenated Wilson Island.”

ENDS

Media contact: Jack Harbour 0419 620 447