Architects Appointed to Deliver Detailed Design for Great Keppel Island (Woppa) Arrivals Plaza
Livingstone Shire Council has appointed Wilson Architects Pty. Ltd. to develop the detailed design for the Great Keppel Island (Woppa) Arrivals Plaza and Amenities project, marking another significant milestone in delivering priorities under the Great Keppel Island Rejuvenation Fund to support the Great Keppel Island (Woppa) Concept Master Plan.
Wilson Architects, one of Australia’s oldest architectural practices recognised for designing bespoke community infrastructure, was appointed following an extensive open tender process.
Livingstone Shire Mayor Adam Belot congratulated the firm, highlighting Council’s commitment to appointing a design consultant with strong local representation to ensure a deep understanding of the area and its unique needs.
“The good news story here is that we have an award-winning firm, Wilson Architects, partnering with locally based sub-consultants, Anderson’s Consulting Engineers, STP Consultants and Reel Planning, to design a facility that captures a true local vibe.”
“Council is confident that together they will deliver a design that not only reflects the desires of the community but the character and essence of our region as well.”
Wilson Architects will undertake a comprehensive review of the initial concept to further develop designs and prepare detailed construction documentation. This progression will render the project 'shovel ready,' with the construction tender anticipated to be released in July this year.
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the Queensland Government welcomed the news that the contract to deliver detailed design for the Great Keppel Island Arrivals Plaza and Amenities project had been finalised.
“This brings this vital project a step closer towards providing a purpose-built facility that will create the best possible first impression for visitors to Great Keppel Island.
“As a key project under the Great Keppel Island Rejuvenation Fund, the arrivals plaza will be the central hub connecting visitors with the island’s activities, wildlife, and walking trails.
“The project continues Great Keppel Island’s rejuvenation towards a world-class tourism destination again and will support a vibrant, sustainable future for the region,” Mr Powell said.
Wilson Architects, with a long history of designing buildings that are both architecturally significant and deeply connected to their surrounding communities, will bring their expertise to the design team to create a visitor centre that seamlessly integrates with the island's unique landscape and enhances the visitor experience.
“This is an important project for the community,” Luke Massingham of Wilson Architects said, “It’s not just an opportunity to showcase Great Keppel Island, but an important step in the rejuvenation of Great Keppel Island, renowned for its natural beauty and pristine environment”
The completed facility will feature shaded seating, an amenities block, multi-purpose tenancy space, and a visitor information area providing details on local activities, wildlife, and walking trails.
Alongside the Arrivals Plaza, Council is advancing other key projects including boardwalks, wayfinding infrastructure, and a wastewater treatment plant to support sustainable development, reinforcing Great Keppel Island’s status as a world-class tourism destination.
The project is funded as an integral part of the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation’s Great Keppel Island Rejuvenation Fund.
For more information about the Great Keppel Island (Woppa) Arrivals Plaza and Amenities project, visit https://getinvolved.livingstone.qld.gov.au/gki-arrivals-plaza-and-amenities.