Major Step Forward for Great Keppel Island with Boardwalks and Wayfinding Signage design tenders awarded
Livingstone Shire Council is pleased to announce that tenders have been awarded for the design of new boardwalks and wayfinding signage on Great Keppel Island, marking a significant milestone in delivering on the Great Keppel Island (Woppa) Concept Master Plan.
Mayor Adam Belot expressed his excitement, highlighting the importance of these projects for the region.
“These projects mark the beginning in a new era for Great Keppel Island, supporting the island’s growth and reputation as a premier tourism destination,” Mayor Belot said.
“Both chosen contractors will work closely with local sub consultants, stimulating the local economy and providing great opportunities for our hardworking local businesses”.
“These elements are critical for the economic revitalisation of Great Keppel Island, and I look forward to good development on the Island after so many years of stagnation”.
Mayor Belot highlighted that Great Keppel Island is open for business.
“Additional Council revenue coming from GKI will be vital for Council to keep delivering for the region, and one way this can occur is through businesses and other developments coming to the Island,” Mayor Belot said.
These projects are funded under the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation’s Great Keppel Island Rejuvenation Fund, which is delivering priority initiatives identified by the community to support the Master Plan.
The contract for the Great Keppel Island Wayfinding and Interpretative Signage project has been awarded to Dotdash, specialists in wayfinding, interpretive and visual communication.
This work will include the development of a wayfinding and interpretive signage suite that will be used across the island which reflects the island’s character and Woppaburra cultural heritage.
These signs will guide visitors safely to key attractions and amenities, while showcasing the island's rich natural features and heritage.
For the Great Keppel Island Boardwalks Project, the contract has been awarded to NewScape Design, an experienced landscape architecture studio specialising in natural area designs in remote locations.
The new boardwalks will investigate options to provide visitors with safe pathways to explore the island's breathtaking coastal landscapes, while protecting the environment.
Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the Queensland Government has committed $30 million to revitalise Great Keppel Island, with the boardwalks and wayfinding signage set to significantly improve the tourist experience.
“We are committed to sustainably developing Great Keppel Island as a unique eco-tourism destination, and this funding will go towards building new boardwalks and signage that reflect the Woppaburra cultural heritage,” Minister Powell said.
“Visitors to the island will be able to enjoy more of the island’s stunning scenery with the new boardwalks. The signage will guide visitors safely to key attractions and facilities, while showcasing the island's rich natural features and heritage.”
“By investing in the development of these new boardwalks and signage, it will help to unlock the full potential of Great Keppel Island’s natural landscapes for both tourists and locals.”
Public consultation for the Great Keppel Island Boardwalks, and Wayfinding and Interpretative Signage projects will begin in early 2025.
For further updates, residents and visitors are encouraged to visit Council’s Get Involved platform here: https://getinvolved.livingstone.qld.gov.au