Queensland’s famous island resort sector is showing signs of a major revival, with billions of dollars in proposed investment, new resort developments and government funding potentially bringing several long-dormant Great Barrier Reef destinations back to life.
A number of island resorts have remained closed or derelict following cyclones, ownership changes and years of stalled redevelopment plans. However, projects are now progressing across islands including Double, Lindeman, Hook and Great Keppel.
On Double Island, off Cairns, Morris Group has secured a new long-term lease and plans a $40 million, four-stage redevelopment. Proposals include luxury accommodation through Double Island Lodge, together with a new beachfront precinct, restaurant and beach bar.
In the Whitsundays, Hook Island is being revived after being badly damaged by Cyclone Debbie in 2017. Epochal Hotels is working towards opening a new eco-lodge as part of a $40 million master plan.
Lindeman Island is also set for a comeback. The former Club Med destination is being redeveloped, with plans for new luxury accommodation and resort facilities. The master-plan includes restaurants, bars, conference and event facilities, upgraded air and marine access and other tourism infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Great Keppel Island is receiving government-backed infrastructure investment, including improvements to its arrival precinct, wastewater facilities, walking infrastructure and visitor amenities, intended to support future private-sector tourism investment.
The revival forms part of a wider push under Queensland’s Destination 2045 tourism strategy to attract investment and restore the state’s island destinations.
The scale of proposed investment represents one of the most significant periods of renewal for Queensland’s island tourism sector in decades.