Opportunities for apprenticeships in Rockhampton may receive a boost, after the state government approved a $600 million resort development in the Great Barrier Reef.
Deputy premier Jeff Seeney said the construction of a multimillion-dollar tourism facility on Great Keppel Island is a boon for the economy, with it expected to generate hundreds of jobs for Queenslanders.
“It would provide a huge boost to both the construction and tourism industries – two of Queensland’s four key economic pillars – creating hundreds of construction jobs over a 12-year construction period and more than … 1,000 permanent operational jobs,” Mr Seeney remarked.
“It will be the first major new tourism project within the Great Barrier Reef in 25 years.”
The development, which will boast several sustainable features, will also include a 250-berth marina, yacht club, staff accommodation and a ferry terminal.
Mr Seeney said the project will also help Great Keppel Island become Australia’s first carbon positive resort island thanks to the installation of more than 24,000 solar panels at the facility, which will help it more than meet its energy needs.
Environmental outcomes imposed by the co-ordinator general also include the establishment of a 575 hectare protection precinct and buffer zones to safeguard local habitats and fauna.
