Progressing Great Keppel Island Revitalisation Projects
Livingstone Shire Council is making strong progress on a range of infrastructure projects on Great Keppel Island, following face-to-face updates with residents and key stakeholders on the island last week. Member for Keppel Nigel Hutton said improving infrastructure will stimulate tourism to the island thanks to funding from the Queensland Government.
“The Great Keppel Island Rejuvenation Project is delivering a number of common user infrastructure projects, from the arrivals plaza to boardwalks and signage,” Mr Hutton said.
“By improving the facilities of this coastal paradise, we will boost tourism to the island and its surrounding region.
“This is central to our 20-year tourism plan Destination 2045, which is set to benefit Central Queensland with a range of tourism projects.”
Mayor Adam Belot said the coordinated works are part of Livingstone Shire Council and the Queensland Government’s long-term vision to enhance infrastructure, improve the visitor experience, and protect the island’s unique natural environment.
“These projects will represent a major step forward for Great Keppel Island,” Mayor Belot said.
“They’re not just about bricks and mortar—they’re about building the foundations of a thriving, accessible and a sustainable tourism industry for GKI.”
One of the most visible projects moving ahead is the Arrivals Plaza, where Council has worked closely with designers, Wilson Architects, to refine the layout in response to ecological constraints, community feedback and practical needs.
“The revised design includes optimised shading, improved seating and better pedestrian access,” Mayor Belot said.
“We’ve worked hard to ensure it remains green and welcoming, while also being resilient to erosion. Construction is on track to begin later this year and we expect it to be completed by mid-2026.”
Delivery of the new Sewerage Treatment Plant and network is progressing, with construction to commence soon. Mayor described the project as transformational for the island’s long-term sustainability.
“This system will dramatically improve environmental outcomes and support tourism on the island,” he said.
Council and delivery partner Pensar will work closely with residents and businesses and other stakeholders to coordinate the impacts of construction activities and connections to the network.
Another important upgrade is the rollout of new wayfinding signage across the island. These signs are designed to assist safe, enjoyable, and informative navigation of the island by visitors, with safety input from the Queensland Police Service.
The interpretative signage has been created in collaboration with Woppaburra Traditional Owners and will share cultural information to inform visitors about the Island’s history.
“The new signage will help visitors explore the island safely and confidently,” Mayor Belot said. “And just as importantly, it will reflect the cultural and environmental richness of this special place. Installation is set to begin later this year.”
Mayor Belot added that while the proposed boardwalks have been fully designed and are investment-ready, the staging of their delivery is still being considered in the context of overall project priorities and available funding. Community feedback has already played a key role in shaping improvements to accessibility, aesthetics, and environmental sensitivity in the designs.
“We’ve listened closely to the community’s views on the boardwalks—safer access to key sites, the impact to local residents, scenic lookout points, environmental impacts,” Mayor Belot said.
In relation to shoreline protection, Council is progressing on Shoreline Erosion Management Plans (SEMPs) for Fisherman’s and Putney Beaches.
“Protecting the island from erosion is complex—it involves public and private land—but we’re taking interim steps and pushing forward on long-term planning,” Mayor Belot said.
“Our commitment to safeguarding Great Keppel Island’s coastline remains strong.”
“We’re committed to delivering the best outcomes for Great Keppel Island—projects that honour local input, protect our natural assets, and support a vibrant future for residents, businesses and visitors alike. The aspirations and objectives of the Master Plan remain a central focus.”
For more information and updates on GKI projects visit: https://getinvolved.livingstone.qld.gov.au/projects