Great Keppel Island Resort was once a thriving tourist destination in Australia. Located off the coast of Queensland, this stunning island was known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and diverse marine life.
However, in recent years, the Great Keppel Island Resort has fallen on hard times. Let’s take a closer look at what happened.
Background
The Great Keppel Island Resort was established in the 1960s and quickly became a popular holiday destination among Australians and international tourists alike. The resort boasted a range of accommodation options, including camping sites, cabins, and luxury villas. Visitors could enjoy a range of activities such as snorkeling, diving, fishing, and bushwalking.
Decline
Despite its initial success, the Great Keppel Island Resort began to decline in the late 1990s. The resort changed ownership several times over the years and was affected by financial difficulties and mismanagement.
In 2008, Tower Holdings purchased the resort with plans to redevelop it into a world-class tourist destination. However, these plans were stalled due to environmental concerns and regulatory hurdles.
As a result of these delays, the Great Keppel Island Resort continued to deteriorate. Buildings were left abandoned and infrastructure fell into disrepair.
Recent Developments
In 2020, there were signs of hope for the Great Keppel Island Resort. Tower Holdings received approval for their redevelopment plans after almost a decade of negotiations with local authorities.
The $600 million project aims to transform the island into an eco-friendly resort with low-impact accommodation options such as glamping tents and treehouses. The development will also include new restaurants, bars, and retail outlets.
However, there has been some opposition from environmental groups who are concerned about the impact that such a large-scale development will have on the island’s delicate ecosystem.
Conclusion
The Great Keppel Island Resort has had a tumultuous history. While it was once a popular tourist destination, mismanagement and financial difficulties have led to its decline.
However, with recent redevelopment plans approved, there is hope that the resort will once again become a thriving hotspot for tourists from around the world. It remains to be seen how this development will affect the island’s natural environment, but hopefully, sustainable practices will be implemented to ensure that this beautiful part of Australia remains intact for generations to come.