Successful tender awarded to Pensar Construction Group Pty Ltd for construction of a new wastewater treatment plant on Great Keppel Island
Livingstone Shire Council is pleased to announce the successful award of the tender for the design and construction of a new wastewater treatment plant on Great Keppel Island (GKI), marking a crucial milestone in delivering on the GKI (Woppa) Concept Master Plan.
The contract for the project has been awarded to Pensar Construction Group Pty Ltd.
The plant is sized for 480 Equivalent Persons, and will use a membrane bioreactor as it’s treatment process, producing a class A effluent.
An amenities block half-way along Fisherman’s Beach is being progressed separately and will integrate into the wastewater treatment plant project prior to it being operational.
Mayor Adam Belot welcomed the announcement, highlighting the importance of this project for the region.
“This essential infrastructure project is set to enhance wastewater management on the island, supporting both its current needs and future growth,” Mayor Belot said.
“Works on-site are scheduled to commence in quarter two of 2025, with the sewage treatment plant expected to be operational by late 2025, subject to weather or unforeseen delays.
“Great Keppel Island is a vital part of our region, offering significant economic, environmental, and social benefits.
“The construction of this wastewater treatment plant is a critical step toward ensuring sustainable infrastructure that supports the island’s growth and reputation as a premier tourism destination.”
Member for Keppel Nigel Hutton said the Queensland Government has committed $30 million towards common-user infrastructure on the island with the new wastewater treatment plant being a major priority with the funding.
“These works signal the start of a new era for the island which will finally get the basic infrastructure it needs to thrive as a world class tourist destination long into the future,” Mr Hutton said.
“With the island leases safely in Government hands and a Master Plan in place, we are confident that in the future private investors will be attracted to this jewel in the Capricorn Coast.
“Future plans for eco resorts, a village centre, boardwalks, walking trails and an arrivals gateway cannot happen without the wastewater treatment facilities, amenities and other visitor infrastructure the island has long needed.
“I’m excited to see the plans become reality over the next few years and thank all the local residents, tourism operators, traditional owners and council for contributing to securing a positive future for Great Keppel Island.”
Once completed, the remaining works, including the connection of homeowners to the new system, are planned for completion by quarter one of 2026, ensuring the island’s long-term wastewater management is modernised and sustainable.
This project is fully funded by the Queensland Government through the Building our Regions fund and the GKI Rejuvenation Fund as part of the GKI Master Plan.
The GKI Master Plan is a key part of the Queensland Government’s commitment to revitalise tourism on Great Keppel Island.
Mayor Belot acknowledged the financial implications for ratepayers on the mainland who will subsidise the ongoing operation and maintenance costs of the system.
“This subsidy, expected to be applied in 2025/26, is crucial to ensure the long-term sustainability and functionality of the new wastewater treatment infrastructure,” Mayor Belot said.
“The new wastewater treatment plant is set to transform the island’s infrastructure, ensuring it can continue to thrive as a key destination for tourism and regional development.
“Livingstone Shire Council remains committed to working in collaboration with all stakeholders, including the Queensland Government and the Woppaburra Traditional Custodians, as the project progresses.”
Council respects the Native Title Claim lodged by the Woppaburra people and will continue to engage in respectful dialogue to ensure the best possible outcomes for all.
To stay up to date on the project, please visit Council's Get Involved platform.