Major Clean-Up Underway on Great Keppel Island

Spearheaded by the State Government’s Department of Resources, passionate Great Keppel Island operators and residents are embarking on a significant revitalisation journey with a comprehensive clean-up operation underway aimed at restoring the island’s natural beauty and appeal. 

A massive 60 cubic metres of rubbish in skip bins along with abandoned car bodies, trailers and larger pieces of the resort’s legacy debris, will be removed from the island via barge on Tuesday 21 January 2025.

Key contributors to this initiative include Gerry Christie from Island Pizza, longtime resident Roger Penrose, Craig Arthurson of the Shell House, Benny Christopher from Keppel Lodge, and Kelly Harris with his team at Great Keppel Island Hideaway.

Mr Harris emphasised the significance of this clean-up in revitalising the island.

“Great Keppel Island holds a special place in the hearts of many, and this clean-up is part of a broader commitment to restoring its natural charm,” Mr Harris said.

“We’re thrilled to see this collaborative effort between government, local businesses, and the community.”

Beyond the immediate clean-up, plans are in motion to transform Great Keppel Island into a safe, sustainable, and inviting haven for visitors and locals.

Capricorn Enterprise CEO, Mary Carroll said, “This clean-up effort is a significant step forward for the Island with private and public sectors working collaboratively.”

“Our community is laying the foundation for a brighter future that aligns with the island’s environmental and tourism potential.”

“Great Keppel Island is the jewel in our tourism crown with this clean-up effort the beginning of a reinvigorated iconic island destination on the Southern Great Barrier Reef,” Ms Carroll said.

Keppel MP Nigel Hutton said, “Central Queenslanders have long awaited action on Great Keppel Island and I’m proud that just months after the state election, we’re seeing practical steps taken.”

“GKI is a special place that deserves investment and management on behalf of the people of CQ,” Mr Hutton said. “We all look forward to seeing the island regenerated and thriving.”

Livingstone Shire Council Mayor, Adam Belot said, “The future of Great Keppel Island is built on collaboration, and this partnership reflects our shared commitment to delivering positive outcomes for this iconic destination.”

“By working together—Traditional Owners, government, industry, and community—we are ensuring a sustainable and vibrant future for the island.”

“Great Keppel Island holds deep cultural significance for the Woppaburra People and remains a treasured place for locals and visitors alike.”

“This collective effort will help shape a future that honours its past while creating new opportunities for generations to come,” Mr Belot said.

The long-term vision for Great Keppel Island includes enhanced infrastructure and a strong focus on sustainability, positioning it as a thriving eco-tourism hub.

The clean-up marks the first step in a broader strategy to breathe new life into the island, ensuring it continues to captivate and inspire visitors for generations to come.

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